MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District’s (MLSD) current executive director of teaching and learning, Linda McKay, was recently hired as the North Central Educational Service District’s (ESD) new assistant superintendent of teaching and learning. She will be leaving her post in the MLSD in July.

The North Central ESD announced the hire Monday. MLSD Superintendent Michelle Price said McKay’s assignment with the North Central ESD is set to begin July 1. Price said the hiring process to find to McKay’s replacement will start in short order, with the goal of having that person in place July 1 as well.

The North Central ESD provides teacher training, instructional, financial, student support, early childhood, special needs and technology support services to the 29 public school districts located in north central Washington, including Chelan, Douglas, Grant and Okanogan counties. The 29 school districts in that coverage area currently enroll more than 40,000 students, according to the ESD’s release.

“I am extremely honored to join the ESD team and to serve the 29 school districts in our region providing leadership, service and support for teaching and learning,” McKay said via the ESD announcement. “Having grown up in eastern Washington and being blessed with raising my family here as well, I am passionate about our students, our educators, our families and our communities.”

Prior to joining the Moses Lake School District in 2009, McKay spent time as a teacher, principal and superintendent in the Wilson Creek School District, per the release.

“The African proverb states, ‘If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,’” McKay continued. “They say it takes a village to raise a child and I am excited to join our North Central Washington region filled with committed people working together to raise every child.”

North Central ESD Superintendent Rich McBride also offered comments on McKay’s hiring to the district.

“We are delighted to welcome Linda to our ESD team and to our region in this important position,” McBride said. “Linda’s distinguished career highlights a deep and continuing commitment to the school districts of North Central Washington, both large and small. Her passion for teaching and learning and quality instruction is undeniable and will greatly benefit all of our region’s educators.”