Washoe County School District

Area Superintendent: Kris Hackbusch   
Assistant: Mariana Mandujano
Phone: 775-789-4657

After 25 years of serving the WCSD at the school site level, I am excited for the new, bold challenge of serving as Area Superintendent of Teaching, Learning and Leadership for Secondary Schools. I began my career as an English teacher and basketball coach at my alma mater Reed High School. Over my ten years at Reed, I also served as the Dean of Students and Assistant Principal before moving on to Reno High School as an Assistant Principal for three years. In 2012 I had the distinct honor to be named Principal of Reno High School where I served in that role for 12 years. During my tenure as principal we managed to reach a 90% or higher graduation rate for a decade straight through hard work, collaboration and continuous improvement.  I have served on the University of Oregon Student Services and Enrollment Management Board since 2013. I am a recipient of the University of Nevada Alumni Association Professional Achievement Award, Young Professionals Network and Reno Gazette Journal Top 20 Under 40 recipient, NISL (National Institute of School Leadership) certified, WASL (Washoe Academy of School Leadership) certified, NASC Principal of the Year, 2024 NDE Leadership Award “Doers, Drivers, Change Makers” recipient.  I am a former Nevada Men’s Basketball player (’94-98) and Graduate Assistant Coach (’98-’00).  Over my career I have been mentored and worked alongside some of the most talented and dedicated educators you will ever find.

As Area Superintendent, I am deeply committed to providing guidance, mentorship and support to our schools through an equity lens laser focused on student growth, achievement and well-being for all.  I look forward to engaging in this important work with all members of our school communities in the days to come.  It will take teamwork.  “Coming together is the beginning, keeping together is progress, working together is success.”-unknown