Washoe County School District Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

Washoe County School District has 5 executives leading key functions including academic strategy, operational management, financial oversight, human resources, and administrative coordination.

Committed to academic excellence, Washoe County School District provides comprehensive K-12 education and support services to prepare students for future success across Nevada.

Leadership Roles at Washoe County School District

  • Chief Financial Officer - Mark Mathers
  • Chief Operating Officer - Adam Searcy
  • Chief of Staff - David Lasic
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Doug Owen
  • Interim Superintendent - Kristen McNeill
  • Mark Mathers - Chief Financial Officer

    Mark Mathers, the Chief Financial Officer at Washoe County School District, directs the fiscal strategy, budget development, and financial reporting for the entire public education system. Overseeing the allocation of state and local funding, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that resources reach classrooms and support services effectively. This role involves managing complex financial audits, payroll systems, and procurement processes to maintain fiscal integrity. By analyzing economic trends and district needs, Mark Mathers provides the data-driven insights necessary for long-term planning and sustainability. The Chief Financial Officer works closely with the Board of Trustees to present transparent budget reports and secure funding for critical educational programs. Through prudent management of district assets and liabilities, Mathers supports the overall mission of providing high-quality K-12 schooling. This leadership position ensures that financial stability remains a cornerstone of the district, enabling consistent investment in student success and academic innovation across the Nevada region.
    Mark Mathers

    Adam Searcy - Chief Operating Officer

    Adam Searcy, the Chief Operating Officer at Washoe County School District, manages the physical infrastructure, facilities maintenance, and logistical operations required to support K-12 schooling. Overseeing the daily functionality of numerous elementary, middle, and high schools, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that learning environments remain safe, modern, and conducive to academic progress. This role involves directing capital improvement projects and optimizing resource allocation to meet the growing needs of the district. By coordinating transportation, nutrition services, and facility security, Adam Searcy maintains the operational backbone of the entire system. The Chief Operating Officer collaborates with financial leadership to align infrastructure investments with long-term district goals. Through rigorous oversight of maintenance schedules and safety protocols, Searcy guarantees that physical assets support the educational mission. This leadership position drives efficiency across all non-instructional departments, ensuring that the district operates effectively to serve the diverse student population within the Nevada region.
    Adam Searcy

    David Lasic - Chief of Staff

    David Lasic, the Chief of Staff at Washoe County School District, manages internal communications and coordinates high-level administrative functions across the organization. Facilitating seamless interaction between the Superintendent and various department heads, the Chief of Staff ensures that strategic priorities receive consistent attention and execution. This role involves streamlining operational workflows to improve efficiency within the district office and across individual school sites. By overseeing special projects and policy implementation, David Lasic supports the broader mission of providing quality K-12 education. The Chief of Staff monitors organizational health and addresses complex administrative challenges that impact daily operations. Through careful management of executive schedules and board relations, Lasic maintains focus on critical educational objectives. This leadership position requires balancing immediate operational needs with long-term district goals, ensuring that all administrative processes contribute directly to the success of students and staff throughout the Nevada region.

    Doug Owen - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Doug Owen, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Washoe County School District, manages talent acquisition, professional development, and labor relations for the entire workforce. Overseeing the recruitment of educators and support staff, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the district maintains a high-quality team capable of delivering excellent K-12 instruction. This role involves negotiating collective bargaining agreements, administering benefits, and fostering a positive workplace culture across all school sites. By implementing training programs and performance management systems, Doug Owen drives professional growth and retention among staff members. The Chief Human Resources Officer collaborates with other executive leaders to align staffing levels with student enrollment and academic requirements. Through proactive management of personnel policies and compliance standards, Owen supports the district's commitment to educational excellence. This leadership position remains vital for building a resilient, effective workforce that directly impacts the learning experiences of students throughout the Nevada region.
    Doug Owen

    Kristen McNeill - Interim Superintendent

    Kristen McNeill, the Interim Superintendent at Washoe County School District, directs the overarching academic mission and strategic vision for the entire public education system. Overseeing K-12 curriculum development and student support services, the Interim Superintendent ensures alignment between classroom instruction and district-wide performance goals. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board of Trustees to implement policies that enhance student outcomes and family resources. By fostering partnerships with community stakeholders, Kristen McNeill drives initiatives that expand educational access throughout the region. The Interim Superintendent maintains rigorous standards for special education and counseling programs, ensuring equitable learning environments for all students. Through proactive engagement with school administrators, McNeill secures the necessary resources to support academic growth. Ultimately, the Interim Superintendent shapes the long-term trajectory of the district by prioritizing student achievement and operational excellence within the Nevada educational landscape.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Washoe County School District Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Washoe County School District?
    Washoe County School District is led by Mark Mathers (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Adam Searcy (Chief Operating Officer) and David Lasic (Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of Washoe County School District’s executive team?
    The executive team of Washoe County School District includes leaders such as Mark Mathers (Chief Financial Officer), Adam Searcy (Chief Operating Officer), David Lasic (Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Washoe County School District have?
    Washoe County School District has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Washoe County School District’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Washoe County School District includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief of Staff, Chief Human Resources Officer, Interim Superintendent.