Dear South Umpqua Community,

I am so grateful for the tremendous welcome I have received in this very special community. While settling into my new home, I have been met with kindness, enthusiasm, and a clear dedication to doing what is right by our kids. I am honored and thrilled to be serving as your next Superintendent.

I have begun the exciting work of meeting the three goals of my entry plan, which are:

1. Build relationships of trust with the Board of Directors, District Staff, and the community.
2. Identify the key priorities of the district moving into the next five years.
3. Discover the gifts of South Umpqua that can be used to unlock students’ unlimited potential.

This work is grounded in meeting with individuals, getting settled in the community, and learning all I can about South Umpqua’s tremendous strengths and areas we can grow to better serve our students. For a full outline of activities, please review the complete entry plan here.

As we get ready for an amazing school year, I am filled with optimism knowing this is just the beginning. Together, we will build a future where the students and educators of South Umpqua thrive. The assets of this district are many – talented educators, a supportive community, and simply amazing students. I know that together there is nothing we cannot accomplish for our children. I look forward to collaborating with you all on building the pathway to unlock the unlimited potential in every student.

In Community,

Superintendent Erika Bare