Washoe County School District Deputy Superintendent Gets Direct Interview Date for Superintendent Job, Bypassing National Search

The Washoe County School Board of Trustees voted yesterday 5-2 to formally interview Deputy Superintendent Tiffany McMaster May 12th for the superintendent position, choosing that option over hiring her immediately or conducting a national search.

Board President Adam Mayberry spoke in favor of hiring her saying “there’s a real desire to have a level of stability and consistency,” with high turnover, drama filled tenures and abrupt departures in recent years in that top position.

“I am writing to express my sincere interest in the Superintendent position for the Washoe County School District,” McMaster, who has nearly three decades experience with the district, wrote previously applying for the leadership position. “As a lifelong WCSD educator, leader, parent, and deeply invested community member, I have dedicated more than twenty-five years to advancing student success, strengthening instructional quality, and supporting increased access and opportunities for every learner in our district.”

Outgoing Superintendent Joe Ernst, who had a base salary of over $280k with a $121,000 benefits package last year, is retiring July 8th just two years into his four year contract.

“One of the most overlooked consequences of this decision is the impact on Tiffany McMaster herself,” a disappointed local wrote to Our Town Reno this morning, hoping instead for a national search. “By not allowing a fair and open process, the board has put a highly qualified candidate in a difficult position—potentially stepping into the role under a cloud of skepticism and whispers of favoritism. A transparent process wouldn’t just serve the public; it would also validate her qualifications and strengthen confidence in her leadership from day one.”

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