The Dalles, Oregon – The North Wasco County School District Board of Directors would like to thank all three of the final superintendent candidates who interviewed for the superintendent position opening for our schools.
The Board met with three highly qualified individuals that undoubtedly are well-positioned to step into this type of role. This process was different than the year prior due to the pandemic as the Board was unable to host the three finalists for in-person interviews. As a result, many of the informal conversations, and more importantly, an opportunity for candidates to visit our community was not able to happen. The Board felt at the conclusion of the interviews there were two candidates who best “fit” with our school district and had the strategic vision to move it into the future. Those two candidates were Dr. Carolyn Bernal and Theresa Peters. The Board felt that it was important to continue with the interview process and schedule in-person interviews with both of these candidates.
However, on January 25th, the Board received a letter from Theresa Peters of her decision to withdraw her application from consideration for the superintendent position. In her letter she shared the following: “The Board’s decision to continue the vetting process for the finalists has given me the opportunity to further reflect on whether the permanent superintendent position is what I want to do next in my career. As I’ve mentioned before, I’ve learned a lot over the past six months. I’ve learned more about our district, about leadership, and about myself. I’m truly grateful for the Board’s trust in me to not only lead North Wasco, but to serve the students, board, staff and community as the interim superintendent. I remain committed to North Wasco County School District and the work ahead of us this school year and beyond. I look forward to working closely with the new superintendent, not only through the transition, but next year in my role as a building principal and leader.”
The Board will continue to move forward with the process and meet in Executive Session on Monday, February 1st, 2021.
The Board is committed to ensuring a smooth and successful transition of its top district leadership position, which will begin July 1st, 2021.