Superintendent
Dr. Pete Perez
Dr. Pete Perez serves as Superintendent of the Othello School District, where he leads a diverse system serving 4,500 students and more than 700 dedicated staff members. With 30 years of experience in education, Pete is a passionate advocate for academic excellence, equity, and community empowerment. Known for his hands-on leadership and commitment to collaboration, he works to ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.
Education and Experiences
Pete’s decision to pursue a career in education was shaped by his desire to confront inequities he observed in healthcare while preparing for a career in physical therapy. Determined to make a greater impact, he shifted his focus to education, where he has since dedicated his career to building systems that empower students, families, and communities. He began his career as a paraprofessional and went on to serve in nearly every level of the school system — working as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, CTE director, AVID district director, assistant superintendent, and now superintendent. These experiences have shaped his leadership style and given him a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within public education.
He earned his Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Superintendent Certification from Washington State University. He also holds a Master’s in Teaching from Grand Canyon University and a Bachelor of Science degree from Central Washington University. These academic achievements reflect his dedication to continuous learning and his deep commitment to improving educational opportunities for all.
Nurturing Academic Excellence
Throughout his career, Pete has led initiatives to improve student outcomes, strengthen instructional practices, and foster a positive, inclusive school culture. His focus on equity and access has opened doors for countless students, while his efforts to build strong partnerships with educators, community members, and industry leaders have created valuable real-world learning experiences for Othello students.
Beyond his professional role, Pete and his wife, Tari, are active members of the community. Tari teaches Career and Technical Education, guiding students as they explore future career pathways. Together, they have two children: their daughter, Mia, who has recently graduated from the University of Washington, and their son, Matthew, who is currently a sophomore at the University of Washington. As a family, they enjoy traveling, spending time at the beach, and attending Broadway shows.
Contact Information:
Dr. Pete Perez, Superintendent
Email: pperez@othelloschools.org
Phone: 509-488-2659
Marissa Garza, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent
Email: marissagarza@othelloschools.org
Phone: 509-488-2659 ext. 1003