OLYMPIA, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Washington residents will decide on a new head of public schools in the coming years.

State Superintendent Chris Reykdal announced on Monday, Nov. 9, that he won’t seek re-election in 2028.

He cited his strong belief in term limits as he nears the end of his third term overseeing the state’s K-12 schools. The state does not have term limits for statewide office, but Reykdal expressed the need for elected officials to impose those limits on themselves.

He says he will still consider running for a different statewide office or federal office in the coming months.

“In this role, I am lucky to spend time in classrooms around our state. In each school I visit, I am struck with a deep appreciation for the work of our educators and administrators and a complete affirmation that our young people have the brightest future ahead,” Reykdal said in his announcement. “Our students are curious and engaged, and hearing their interests and goals is a constant reminder that our future is in good hands. 

Reykdal listed the COVID-19 pandemic and both Trump administrations as the major challenges he’s faced since being elected in 2016.