Higley High School Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Higley High School has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, governance, and board oversight.

Driven by a commitment to student success, Higley High School fosters a dynamic learning environment through discovery science, current events, and hands-on mathematics, complemented by a robust curriculum in physical education, art, and music, aiming for life-long learning for all.

Leadership Roles at Higley High School

  • President - Venessa Whitener
  • Governing Board President - Michelle Anderson
  • Board President - Kristina Reese
  • President, Governing Board - Denise Standage
  • Venessa Whitener - President

    Venessa Whitener, the President at Higley High School, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational execution for the educational institution. This leadership role involves guiding the school's mission to make learning relevant and fun through innovative pedagogical approaches across science, mathematics, and current events. Whitener ensures the comprehensive curriculum, including physical education, art, and music, aligns with the goal of fostering life-long learning for every student. Overseeing the integration of athletics, arts, and school-sponsored clubs, Venessa Whitener guarantees a well-rounded student experience that caters to diverse interests and needs. This executive function involves close collaboration with the governing board and teaching staff to maintain high standards of academic excellence and student engagement. The President's focus remains on enhancing the school's impact within the Gilbert, Arizona community and beyond, driving continuous improvement in educational delivery and student outcomes.

    Michelle Anderson - Governing Board President

    Michelle Anderson, the Governing Board President at Higley High School, presides over the board responsible for the strategic governance and fiduciary oversight of the educational institution. This critical role ensures that the school's operations and academic programs align with its mission of making learning relevant and fun. Anderson guides the board in setting policies that support a comprehensive curriculum encompassing discovery science, current events, hands-on mathematics, physical education, art, and music. The Governing Board President oversees the strategic allocation of resources to support a full menu of athletics, arts, and school-sponsored clubs, ensuring these offerings meet student needs and interests. Michelle Anderson facilitates communication between the board, the school administration, and the parent community, fostering a collaborative environment dedicated to life-long learning. This leadership position is pivotal in maintaining the school's commitment to academic excellence and student development within the Gilbert, Arizona educational landscape.

    Kristina Reese - Board President

    Kristina Reese, the Board President at Higley High School, leads the governing body in its mandate to ensure the school's educational objectives are met with excellence. This position involves directing the board's focus on curriculum development and implementation, ensuring that discovery science, current events, hands-on mathematics, and a well-rounded arts and physical education program are effectively delivered. Reese guides the board in approving initiatives that enhance student engagement through athletics, arts, and various clubs, aligning these activities with the school's commitment to life-long learning. The Board President oversees the strategic planning process, ensuring that Higley High School remains at the forefront of educational innovation in Gilbert, Arizona. Kristina Reese's leadership ensures that the school's professional teaching staff, dedicated parents, and hard-working students are supported in an environment conducive to academic and personal growth, upholding the school's reputation for relevant and fun learning experiences.

    Denise Standage - President, Governing Board

    Denise Standage, the President, Governing Board at Higley High School, directs the board's oversight of the institution's strategic direction and operational integrity. This executive function ensures the school's commitment to making learning relevant and fun is upheld through a dynamic curriculum that includes discovery science, current events, and hands-on mathematics. Standage guides the board in supporting a full spectrum of physical education, art, and music programs, alongside a diverse range of athletics, arts, and school-sponsored clubs designed to meet varied student interests. The President, Governing Board facilitates the board's role in fostering a culture of life-long learning, working closely with administration and staff to maintain high educational standards. Denise Standage's leadership ensures that the school's resources are strategically managed to support academic achievement and holistic student development within the Gilbert, Arizona community, reinforcing the school's dedication to excellence.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Higley High School Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Higley High School?
    Higley High School is led by Venessa Whitener (President), along with executives such as Michelle Anderson (Governing Board President) and Kristina Reese (Board President).
    Who is part of Higley High School’s executive team?
    The executive team of Higley High School includes leaders such as Venessa Whitener (President), Michelle Anderson (Governing Board President), Kristina Reese (Board President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Higley High School have?
    Higley High School has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Higley High School’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Higley High School includes roles such as President, Governing Board President, Board President, President, Governing Board.