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South Umpqua School District Superintendent Search Update

March 10, 2023 – The South Umpqua School Board of Directors and the Screening Advisory Committee (SAC), consisting of school staff, parents and community members, narrowed a diverse applicant pool to three finalists on Saturday, March 4.  All three candidates participated in a day-long Finalist Forum on March held in the South Umpqua School District. The candidates toured several of the district schools and facilities, talked to staff and met community members at an evening meet-and- greet.

After careful deliberation and reviewing all the feedback from staff and community, the school board has chosen to proceed with an interim superintendent search. The board will meet Wednesday, March 15, 2023, to discuss the search process as well as qualities and qualifications in choosing an individual who will lead the district for the 2023-24 school year.

“On behalf of the board we wish to thank the SAC volunteers for the time they spent in assisting in this comprehensive process, as well as all the staff and community members who participated in Thursday night’s meet and greet,” said South Umpqua School District Board Chair, Jeff Johnson. “The information and input we gathered from all involved was invaluable in making our decision, I am confident we will find a quality interim superintendent to lead this great district over the coming year.”

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On Nov. 2 South Umpqua School District’s board voted to approve Superintendent Kate McLaughlin’s resignation as superintendent. McLaughlin remains dedicated to the district and will fulfill her superintendent responsibilities through the end of the school year before she steps into her new role as district’s next director of student achievement. She will replace Andy Johnson following his retirement.

“I remain devoted to our collective work and vision,” said McLaughlin. “The district has a devoted school board and team of education professionals, all committed to our students. We make up a terrific team. In my future role as the director of student achievement, I will prioritize the services that support the social, behavioral and learning needs of our students.”