Former Crook County School District Superintendent Dr. Sarah Johnson has been selected to lead the High Desert Education Service District (HDESD) as the next superintendent.
Johnson, who was named Oregon's 2022 Superintendent of the Year, will begin his new role in July. HDESD is committed to “implementing early childhood education (ages 0-5), special education (ages 0-21), mental and behavioral health, substitute teacher, driver education, and other specialized programs in Central Oregon.” He said he will lead the way.
HDESD connects many school districts in Central Oregon, including Crook County, Bend-La Pines, Redmond, and Sisters, with state and federal educational resources.
“We were looking for a proven educational leader with a heart for children,” HDESD Board Chair Matt McGowan said in a statement. “There is a reason she was named Superintendent of the Year. Everyone who has worked with and for Dr. Johnson recognizes her contribution to creating a great culture. Her passion for children and her leadership and collaboration skills with the primary goal of improving education and student outcomes are exactly what we were looking for in a new superintendent. We couldn't be more excited to have such a talented individual join our team.”
“The majority of my 25-year career as a K-12 educator has been rooted on the east side of the Cascade Mountains, and this region truly feels like home to me,” Johnson said in a statement. Ta. “The role of superintendent is a great opportunity to apply everything I have learned throughout my career.As a former school district superintendent, I also know first-hand the important role that educational service districts play in supporting the mission that school districts serve. We understand. We provide fair, high-quality, cost-effective, and community-based educational services.”
Johnson resigned from his position with the Crook County School District last year after self-proclaimed “Mama Bears” Jessica Bramble, Cheyenne Edgeley and Jennifer Knight were elected to the school board. Johnson said her new members don't share her vision for leadership.
