Coupeville Sports

Erica McColl

The top-rated administrator in the Coupeville School District is departing.

After two very successful years at the helm of the town’s elementary school, Principal Erica McColl has resigned to accept an administrative position in Mount Vernon.

She will be that district’s new Director of Student Support and Prevention Services.

In a letter to the community released Wednesday evening, McColl expressed how much the CES job has meant to her.

“I have loved every minute of being your principal,” she said. “And I want to emphasize that I am still a Coupeville mom, community member, neighbor, and friend.

“I am committed to ensuring all of our hard work and systems we have in place will remain intact and ensuring a smooth hand off for the next person fortunate enough to lead you all.

“I am so grateful for the support I’ve had from this community, and I look forward to seeing you while out supporting our kids!”

McColl arrived in Coupeville after working as a middle school principal in Anacortes.

She was originally hired as the middle school/high school assistant principal in July 2024, before moving down the street in October of that year to replace CES Principal David Ebersole when he retired.

Before that, McColl, who holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in counseling, was an assistant principal in the Marysville School District and the Multi-tiered Systems of Support Manager with the Edmonds School District.

In her two years on the job in Coupeville, she had a hugely positive impact on students, and was highly respected by colleagues, teachers, support staff, and parents.

In a recent survey conducted by the Coupeville Education Association and the Coupeville Educational Support Association, McColl received consistent praise across the board, the only administrator in the district to earn substantial support.

McColl stayed busy in all aspects of community life, including coaching volleyball.

Superintendent Shannon Leatherwood thanked McColl for her work and wished her the best going forward.

“This news is bittersweet,” Leatherwood said. “Over the past year and a half, Erica has led our elementary school with warmth, dedication, and extreme focus on what’s best for our students.

“She has strengthened the systems, culture, and sense of community that make our elementary school such a special place for children to learn and grow. While we will miss her, we’re genuinely happy for her as she steps into this exciting new role.

“We are deeply grateful for Erica’s leadership and the lasting impact she has made on our school. Please join me in thanking her and wishing her all the best in this next chapter.”

McColl will be remembered for her positive outlook and quality leadership.