Arthur O. Jarvis, currently superintendent of Enumclaw School District, has been appointed chief financial officer of Seattle Public Schools effective Jan. 15.

"This school system is very fortunate to attract an individual with Dr. Jarvis' outstanding leadership skills; and his breadth and depth of experience in K-12 education," said Mark Green, chief operating officer. "Dr. Jarvis has built a reputation for personal and professional integrity and sound financial management. These qualities will help ensure that Seattle Public Schools continues to operate in and strengthen the culture of open, transparent, and conservative financial management that has enabled the district to rebuild its reserves over the past several years. In addition, Dr. Jarvis brings a deep understanding of learning and teaching, and of how to effectively align resources to support student success. "

Jarvis said he was "thrilled with the opportunity to join Seattle Public Schools. I have devoted my career in K-12 education to the fundamental belief that each school system can - and must - meet the unique needs of each child. I look forward to bringing my energy, experience, and skills to the challenges and opportunities in Seattle."

Jarvis, who was selected Washington State Superintendent of the Year in 2005 by the Washington Association of School Administrators, has served at the superintendent level for 22 years. He began his career in education as a junior high and high school teacher; served for three years as a special education consultant for Seattle Public Schools; and held the role of Assistant Superintendent in Enumclaw School District for 12 years prior to his appointment as superintendent of South Whidbey School District. After 11 years as superintendent at South Whidbey, Jarvis returned to Enumclaw in 1996 as superintendent.

He announced in fall 2006 that he would retire from Enumclaw by the end of the 2006-2007 school year.