FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 25, 2024
ST. HELENS, Ore. – The St. Helens School District Board of Directors voted unanimously Monday night to appoint Dr. Steve Webb as acting superintendent. Webb will serve under a 90-day contract, effective immediately.
The board acknowledged the magnitude of the current crisis and the challenges facing the district following recent allegations of employee misconduct and concerns about the lack of transparency from some district and school leaders.
“We know that it will take concerted effort and significant time to address the trust that has been broken between our community and school district,” said Trinity Monahan, acting chairperson for the board. “We are pleased that Dr. Webb, a veteran superintendent and a highly regarded educational leader, has joined us to help our district and community come together, heal and move forward.”
Webb brings a wealth of experience to the role, with a distinguished career in K-12 education spanning nearly four decades. Currently an executive search consultant with Human Capital Enterprises and a national senior consultant for the American Association of School Administrators (AASA), Webb previously served as superintendent of Vancouver (WA) Public Schools from 2008 to 2021.
During his tenure in Vancouver, Webb was recognized for:
- Expanding K-12 program choices;
- Integrating technology to enhance teaching and learning;
- Rebuilding and improving educational and athletic facilities;
- Enhancing safety security measures;
- Recruiting highly qualified educators and administrators;
- Strengthening school-community partnerships; and
- Improving student achievement.
His career also includes roles as superintendent in Apple Valley, California, district administrator, high school and middle school administrator, and classroom teacher. Webb’s professional accolades include the Washington State Superintendent of the Year, AASA National Superintendent of the Year finalist, and AASA Dr. Effie Jones Humanitarian Award. He earned a doctoral degree in educational leadership from Seattle University.
In his new role, Webb will focus on stabilizing district and school leadership, listening to stakeholders, and recommending actions that are needed to address the district’s current crisis and long-term needs.
“Our shared goal is to set St. Helens School District on a path toward a successful future, ensuring that the appropriate policies, procedures, systems and personnel are in place for a safe, respectful, and professionally ethical learning environment. Every student should feel safe, secure, and supported in our schools. We must do significant work to begin rebuilding community relationships and trust,” said Webb.
About St. Helens School District
Located 30 miles north of Portland, Oregon, alongside the scenic Columbia River, the St. Helens School District serves approximately 2,800 students across seven schools and employs over 300 staff members.
District Mission Statement: Strengthening Our Community Through Exceptional Schools
District Vision Statement: St. Helens School District inspires all students to learn, connect, and commit to a thriving future.
District Tagline: Learn, Connect, Commit