Superintendent Search

Updated: February 7, 2025

Kennewick School District Board of Directors Names Next Superintendent

Mr. Lance R. Hansen

The Kennewick School District Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Mr. Lance Hansen has been selected as the district’s next superintendent, subject to successful completion of contract negotiations. Mr. Hansen will begin the position July 1, succeeding Dr. Traci Pierce when she retires.

Mr. Hansen was offered the position after an extensive public engagement process including a community survey, focus groups, a board interview and staff and community meetings. He was among three finalists for the position.

In response to his selection, Mr. Hansen said, "I'm honored to be selected as the next superintendent of the Kennewick School District. I want to thank the students, staff and community members who took time to meet with me during the interview process. After spending time in the district, it's clear this is the right fit. My wife and I are excited to be part of this wonderful community."

Mr. Hansen is currently in his fourth year as the superintendent in the Lewiston Independent School District #1 in Lewiston, Idaho. He has served the district in several roles during the past 18 years, including assistant superintendent, principal and assistant principal of Lewiston High School, and assistant principal of Sacajawea Middle School. 

Prior to working in Lewiston, Mr. Hansen worked as a math teacher at Moscow High School in the Moscow School District and a Spanish and math teacher at Emmett High School in the Emmett Independent School District. He graduated from Challis High School and earned a Bachelor of Science from the University of Idaho, majoring in Spanish and minoring in math. He also has a master’s degree in educational leadership as well as an educational specialist degree in educational leadership.

Mr. Hansen was recently named the Idaho Superintendent of the Year for 2025 by the Idaho Association of School Administrators. He is also the board president for the Idaho Digital Learning Alliance and is involved in the Rotary Club of Lewiston, Twin County United Way and the Lewis Clark Valley Chamber of Commerce.

"We want to express our heartfelt thanks to the staff, students and community for their involvement and thoughtful contributions throughout the superintendent search,” said Board President Gabe Galbraith. “Their feedback has played a crucial role in the search. We had exceptional candidates but as the board concluded the process it was clear there was one candidate who stood out as the right leader for our district to succeed Dr. Pierce.”

He added, “Mr. Hansen has a remarkable background as a teacher, building administrator, district administrator, and Superintendent. His passion for students was clear from the start. The board looks forward to the positive impact his leadership will have as we continue to grow and strengthen our schools. Please join the board in welcoming Mr. Lance Hansen."

Mr. Hansen and his wife, Dawn, have five grown children and five grandchildren.