Toppenish School District

Toppenish School District is aware that the Yakima Herald has published an article regarding a lawsuit filed by Sandra Birley against the District and Superintendent, Dr. Toron Wooldridge. The District generally does not comment on ongoing litigation, and it will not comment on the specific allegations or details of the case. However, we can confirm that a lawsuit has been filed. We can also confirm that Birley continues to be employed by Toppenish School District as Director of Special Education and that her position has not changed.

Dr. Wooldridge joined Toppenish School District in 2024 during a period of ongoing transition, following multiple changes in district leadership. Staffing and accountability changes began before his appointment and have continued out of necessity as the District works to address budget challenges, strengthen accountability and oversight, and ensure resources are aligned to the programs and services that most benefit students and the community.

Early in his tenure, and in recognition of concerns related to past administrations as well as the community’s desire for greater accountability, Dr. Wooldridge worked with the Washington Association of School Administrators to conduct a management and operational review. He also worked with the Office of the Washington State Auditor to ensure that fiscal systems were established to address previous findings.  Structural changes and fiscal management systems implemented during Dr. Wooldridge’s tenure as Superintendent were based on recommendations following these reviews.

Toppenish School District remains committed to serving students, supporting staff, and making thoughtful, fiscally responsible decisions in the best interest of our students, staff, schools and community.