Seattle Schools Chief Vows Stronger Police Ties, Faster Accountability

Superintendent Ben Shuldiner outlines security upgrades, curriculum review, and plans to rebuild trust with families.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 10:34pm

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A bold, colorful silkscreen grid of a school security camera, conceptually representing the district's focus on physical security upgrades to protect students.A pop art interpretation of the security measures Seattle schools are implementing to enhance campus safety.Seattle Today

In a wide-ranging interview, Seattle Public Schools Superintendent Ben Shuldiner discussed his top priorities, including strengthening the district's relationship with local police, tightening campus security, speeding up personnel decisions, and reviewing curriculum amid concerns over divisive content. Shuldiner emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to student safety, balancing physical protections with stronger connections between students, staff, and the community.

Why it matters

The superintendent's comments come after a deadly shooting near a Seattle high school, underscoring the urgency to address safety and security in the district. Shuldiner's plans to rebuild trust with families and take a hard look at curriculum also reflect broader tensions in the community over issues like diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

The details

Shuldiner said the district is evaluating physical security upgrades like cameras, single points of entry, window film, and fencing. But he stressed that stronger relationships with students and the community are just as important. The superintendent wants police to focus on areas outside school buildings, rather than having officers stationed inside full-time. He also acknowledged concerns over the district's central office spending and pledged to bring more staff back to schools. Shuldiner vowed to speed up personnel decisions, saying the district can't have employees 'languishing' for long periods under investigation.

  • Just days after a deadly shooting near Rainier Beach High School, Shuldiner entered the superintendent role.
  • Around 330 Seattle Public Schools employees had been working from home at least part-time.

The players

Ben Shuldiner

The new superintendent of Seattle Public Schools, who is prioritizing student safety, strengthening police ties, and reviewing curriculum and spending.

Seattle Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that Shuldiner wants to have a stronger relationship with, focusing on areas outside school buildings.

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What they’re saying

“I think one of the first things we're doing is we're making sure that we have a much better relationship with the police department.”

— Ben Shuldiner, Superintendent, Seattle Public Schools

“You know where the police should be? One millimeter outside the door...I want our relationship with the police to be incredibly strong. But where they need to help us, because we can't, is on the corner, at the bus stop, in the street.”

— Ben Shuldiner, Superintendent, Seattle Public Schools

What’s next

Shuldiner said the district is evaluating physical security upgrades and working to strengthen relationships with students, staff, and the community. He also plans to speed up personnel decisions and conduct a comprehensive review of the district's curriculum.

The takeaway

Shuldiner's focus on student safety, accountability, and rebuilding trust with families reflects the complex challenges facing urban school districts, where balancing security, community engagement, and academic priorities is crucial. His plans to tighten campus access, review curriculum, and improve central office efficiency signal a willingness to tackle systemic issues head-on.