New Principal of Eccles Elementary Hailed as ‘Transformational Leader’

Come this summer, Kelly Rogers will join Canby School District as the next principal of Eccles Elementary School.

“I am so excited to join the Canby School District and lead the wonderful Eccles Elementary and really become a part of the Canby community,” Rogers said.

The new hire replaces longtime Principal Andy McKean, who will be taking on the role of human resources director for the district after the conclusion of the current school year.

Superintendent Dr. Aaron Downs said he is excited to have Rogers come aboard.

“We are extremely proud to welcome a transformational leader like Kelly to our district,” Downs said. “His student-centered, positive and inspiring leadership is evident and we are thrilled for the Eccles community. Kelly is eager to meet kids, staff, and families in the coming weeks and over the summer months.”

Rogers currently serves as the assistant principal at Rosemont Ridge Middle School and was the instructional coordinator for Bolton Primary prior to that. He has also taught in the classroom at the elementary level, and he has a passion for elementary education.

Rogers holds a bachelor’s degree from Portland State and a master’s and administrative license from Lewis and Clark College.

District leaders said they were sensitive to the voice of the Eccles community in the process of hiring Rogers.

“The Eccles Elementary School community had high hopes for their next principal,” said Director of Communications Kristen Wohlers. “They especially wanted someone with the ability to build relationships and someone who is a strong communicator. I think Kelly is going to be perfect for the role.

“He has such a kind presence and has a solid track record of building strong relationships in the school community. He considers himself to be a learner and a listener, and yet he is also an excellent leader and communicator.”

Rogers and his wife, Shiloh, have four boys. His family joined him at the school district when he received word that he’d been hired. He said he was “touched” and is “very excited.”

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