Ahead of the 2026-27 academic year, the Blaine School District brought on several new employees. The Northern Light sat down with Aubrey Van Orden, 41, the district’s new director of curriculum and instruction, to learn more about him and his approach to learning. Van Orden brings prior educational experience, most recently working in the Sultan School District.
This interview was edited for length and clarity.
How would you describe your role?
I work with the principles and schools in planning for instructional practices, interventions and curricular materials. I act as the mentor for some of the principals as far as decision making, but I try to maintain my focus around the professional learning community of teaching, and ensuring that all students are learning at high levels.
What brought you to the Blaine School District?
I had an opportunity to leave my previous role, and the position became available here and it was the next step that I wanted to take in my professional career. I’ve been a principal for the last 10 years, so I wanted to move up to the district office where I could have a larger impact and work not only on helping principals, but ensuring that we put the best opportunities in front of kids. It was a great fit.
What are you looking forward to this school year?
I’m looking forward to building a lot of relationships, and getting to know people and systems. Being new to the district gives me that opportunity to step back and see things for what they are, and see how great all the staff are at what they’re currently doing, but also to see ways that we can improve and eventually bring about change for the students of Blaine.
What do you want students and families to know about you?
I love what I do; I love this profession. I love kids and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in their lives, and making every decision on what’s best for them, and ultimately, what’s going to provide us the greatest outcomes for our families and for our students.
What do you like to do for fun?
A lot of things, but I like hunting and fishing and being outdoors. I like building; I like working on projects and things with my hands.
This article is part of a Q&A series with newly hired Blaine School District employees.
