Meet Leighton

Hi, I’m Leighton Thomas—a parent, an experienced public educator, and a proud Kitsap neighbor.

My journey into education wasn’t traditional. My career started in the private sector, where I worked with organizations on workforce development and strategic planning, but something was missing. In 2008, I read an article about the need for teachers in D.C. public schools, and in less than a year, I welcomed my first classroom of students. It was the hardest and most meaningful work I’ve ever done. While teaching full-time, I earned my teaching license and master’s degree, and eventually a doctorate in Education Policy and Leadership from Vanderbilt University.

Since then, I’ve served as Chief Strategy Officer at the Wyoming Department of Education, where I worked closely with the State Board of Education and state legislators. I built my own education consulting practice and supported schools and systems across the country. As a military spouse, I’ve lived and worked across the country and overseas—experiences that give me a broad, inclusive perspective.

Today, I serve my community as a PTA` leader, youth orchestra board member, and contributing writer for a local parenting magazine. I’m a regular at Kitsap Crossfit, always reading, often hiking, sometimes practicing piano, and deeply invested in this community I now call home.

I’m running for the school board because I believe in public schools. I believe we can build a stronger, more responsive district—one that truly serves students, supports faculty, and earns the trust of families. I bring curiosity and a collaborative spirit to the work ahead.

Leighton’s Priorities

Let’s make North Kitsap Schools a top choice for families

Schools that Serve Students

Leighton believes that every decision we make for schools should begin with an essential question: How does this serve our students? As an experienced educator, Leighton is committed to student-centered leadership that gives every learner a strong foundation for their future—whether they are college-bound, entering a trade, or pursuing a unique path.

In a time of tight budgets, declining enrollment, and growing student needs, Leighton is committed to improving how we serve North Kitsap students and families. This includes thinking creatively about programs to meet the needs of more families to bring dollars back into our district, advocating for more and equitable access to opportunities, and nurturing scholarship for all students. Leighton will be a steward of public dollars and wants to make NK a school district that families are excited to choose for their children.

Collaboration and Transparency

When schools and communities work together, our students thrive—and that’s the future Leighton is working toward. As a collaborative leader, she sees the school board as a critical bridge between the district and the community—one built on trust, transparency, and meaningful engagement.

Leighton doesn’t just want to talk about change—she wants to work collaboratively to build it. She will champion transparent systems that invite input, answer tough questions, and honor the voices of stakeholders. Her approach fosters a culture of trust and shared purpose, where everyone plays a role in student success. True engagement requires more than updates—it requires connection. Leighton wants to see more listening sessions and regular opportunities to meet with Board members. Leighton will work to build authentic partnerships across the entire North Kitsap ecosystem, strengthening ties with families, educators, civic leaders, and tribal communities.

Visionary Leadership for a Responsive Future

Demographics are shifting. Facilities are aging. School building space is out of sync with enrollment. Technology is rapidly evolving. The impacts of State and Federal policy changes remain uncertain. North Kitsap needs a board that can navigate change with clarity and purpose. Leighton is ready to work with fellow board members to respond to today’s challenges while planning for tomorrow.

Leighton believes sustainability is about more than the environment. It’s about building systems—financial, structural, and relational—that last. It means being thoughtful about the impact our decisions have on individual lives today, while embracing innovative thinking so that we set up our schools to remain vibrant, equitable, and strong for generations to come.