Former Spokane schools chief dies

Gerald Hester, a former Spokane Public Schools superintendent, died this morning after a long battle with an illness. Hester, 82, was superintendent from 1980 to 1993, according to news archives. Hester and his wife Carol remained in Spokane after his retirement. According to district officials, he enjoyed attending district functions until two years ago. Hester had a long, distinguished career, said former superintendent Gary Livingston, who took over when Hester left the district. As superintendent, Hester “had a successful run, things kept changing and improving,” Livingston said. “He worked hard to bring financial security to the district. He implemented a number of programs for at-risk children. He was one of the leaders among superintendents around the state.” Hester’s son, Mark, is a science, health and fitness teacher at Shadle Park High School.