Canby School District has promoted two of its own staff members to fill key leadership positions.
As of July 1, Canby High School Assistant Principal Cari Sloan will move into the high school principal role, and Eccles Elementary Principal Andy McKean will become the district’s director of human resources.
“We are really excited for Cari and Andy to fill these roles,” Superintendent Dr. Aaron Downs said. “Our students will benefit from their experience, integrity and expertise.”
Current high school Principal Greg Dinse announced his retirement earlier this year, and current HR Director Michelle Riddell will be taking on the same role a little closer to home in the North Clackamas School District this summer.
District leaders said Sloan consistently rose to the top throughout an extensive interview process for the high school principal position. Her prior experience includes teaching English Language Arts and serving as the Dean of Students at Aloha High School before becoming associate principal at Canby High.
Downs said Sloan understands the needs at Canby High and has a passion for that community and Canby as a whole.
“I’m honored to serve as the next principal of Canby High School,” Sloan said. “I look forward to partnering with students, staff and the community to build upon the strong tradition of excellence. Roll Cougs!”
Prior to making a decision, leaders sought input from high school staff, parents, the community, and students. Staff, parents and the community agreed the high school needs a strong instructional leader with high academic standards, according to Director of Communications Kristen Wohlers.
They also wanted to see an excellent communicator and someone who creates a safe, welcoming environment for all. Students hoped for someone who would develop strong connections.
“We believe Cari checks all of those boxes,” Wohlers said, “and she is excited to get to know the community in a new way.”
District leaders are also confident in their decision to promote McKean, who has worked in the field of education for more than 20 years.
“He is highly respected in the district, and one of his many strengths is hiring and managing staff,” Wohlers said. “Also, his relational skills are essential for a position like this. We are excited for him to join the district office team and expand his impact.”
The shift will mark a significant transition for the Eccles community, which has thrived under McKean’s leadership for almost a decade.
“After serving nearly 10 years at Eccles, I am excited to take on this new role as the Human Resources Director for the Canby School District,” McKean said. “It has been my honor to serve as the principal at Eccles.
“I will forever be grateful to the staff, students and community of Eccles for supporting me and shaping me into the leader I am today.”
Officials say the district will begin searching for replacements for the two staffers right away.
