The Portland Public Schools Board of Education in Oregon has selected Dr. Kimberlee Armstrong, a member of Chiefs for Change Future Chiefs leadership development program, as the district’s next superintendent. Currently serving as the deputy superintendent of Evergreen School District in Vancouver, Washington, Dr. Armstrong’s appointment heralds an exciting new chapter for Portland Public Schools (PPS), the largest school district in the state, serving more than 44,000 students across approximately 81 schools.
“I am honored that the Board of Education has chosen me to lead Portland Public Schools,” Armstrong said. “As superintendent, my vision is to cultivate an educational ecosystem where every student’s potential is nurtured, every teacher’s passion is ignited, and every community member’s voice is valued. I am thrilled to return to PPS to lead the students of Portland on this transformative journey toward academic excellence.”
Dr. Armstrong previously served as chief academic officer at PPS, where she spearheaded strategic academic initiatives that improved curriculum and instructional practices.
In her current role as deputy superintendent, she provides leadership and innovation in curriculum, instruction and school improvement initiatives. She is dedicated to enhancing student outcomes through cohesive, district-wide system management and rebuilding community trust through transparent communication.
Dr. Armstrong is a member of Chiefs for Change eighth cohort of the Future Chiefs leadership development program. With a steadfast dedication to learning and leading, Dr. Armstrong is passionate about promoting advancement, nurturing a growth mindset, and developing resilient workforces for employees across the United States. Drawing from her own experiences, she aims to create an environment that fosters adaptability, support, and empowers individuals to thrive authentically.
“I am looking forward to supporting Dr. Armstrong as she takes on this new role,” said Chief in Residence at Chiefs for Change Barbara Jenkins. “We recognized her extreme talent and commitment when she was selected for our latest cohort of Future Chiefs. I know she will do great things in Portland, with so many supporters, including Chiefs for Change.”
Dr. Armstrong earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication from California State University East Bay, master’s in Business Administration from City University of Seattle and a Doctor of Education Degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies with a Washington State Superintendent Certification from the University of Washington.
To learn more about the Future Chiefs program, visit https://www.chiefsforchange.org/future-chiefs-program/.
About Chiefs for Change
Chiefs for Change is a nonprofit, bipartisan network of diverse state and district education chiefs dedicated to preparing all students for today’s and tomorrow’s world through deeply committed leadership. Chiefs for Change advocates for policies and practices that make a difference for students and advance next-generation leadership among chiefs and their teams. For more information, visit https://www.chiefsforchange.org.
