Chris Nesmith
Superintendent, Elma School District (Wash.)
Dr. Christopher Nesmith is Superintendent of Elma School District (WA) and a nationally recognized leader in educational innovation. He has pioneered the use of AI to align mastery-based learning with youth apprenticeship pathways, enabling students to complete a 2,000-hour journey card while simultaneously earning core academic credit. Under his leadership, Elma has become a national model for blending AI-driven mastery tracking with real-world workforce preparation, earning recognition from The Seattle Times and DA Magazine’s District of Distinction. Dr. Nesmith also serves as a thought leader with AASA’s Redefining Ready! initiative, supporting superintendents nationwide in building future-ready systems.
