Staff Report

Megan Isakson, current associate principal for Island Park and Northwood elementary schools, has been selected to take the reins as the new principal of West Mercer Elementary on July 1.

She will succeed Carol Best, who is retiring as West Mercer principal on June 30, according to a Mercer Island School District (MISD) press release. Isakson’s appointment is subject to the approval of the Mercer Island School Board at its June 24 regular board meeting.

“I’m excited and humbled to be selected to lead the West Mercer team,” Isakson said in the release. “I am eager to learn with and work alongside the community as we forge the path ahead together.”

Isakson — who joined MISD a year ago — received her principal certification from Seattle University, her masters in teaching from the University of Washington and bachelor of arts in sociology from the University of San Francisco.

She formerly worked for Seattle Public Schools as a third- and fourth-grade teacher and academic interventionist, and served as a youth program coordinator with several nonprofit organizations.

She and her wife, Carolyn, live in Seattle. Isakson is an avid rock climber, boxer, and parent to three dogs.

MISD said they chose Isakson from an excellent pool of internal candidates, and the hiring process included a range of stakeholders, including West Mercer families and staff as well as input from students.

“Consistent with our commitment to attract and retain quality staff, we invest in our staff and offer opportunities for growth within the district where possible,” MISD noted. “The decision to hire internally versus externally is based on many variables, including the internal talent pipeline, the depth and breadth of the possible applicant pool, changes occurring in the educational environment, and more. At all times, our students and their needs guide the district’s decision making.”