Superintendent Kym LeBlanc-Esparza’s commitment to improving high school student achievement was underscored when she announced that Assistant Superintendent Dave Parker would serve as principal of the 1,500-student school during the 2015-16 school year.  LeBlanc-Esparza’s decision came as a result of the unexpected retirement of NHS principal Mark Risen.

“I am committed to strong leadership to continue moving forward to address student success,” said LeBlanc-Esparza. “We are sending our best to Newberg High School.”

Parker remains Assistant Superintendent but Newberg High School is clearly his focus. He will be stationed at the high school and has reorganized his current duties in order to place his attention on the high school.

“This is not about maintaining the status quo or starting over,” said Parker, “but continuing to move student achievement forward at Newberg High School.”

Parker is no stranger to secondary education. His 26-year education career includes positions as a science teacher, principal and a central office administrator. He served as middle school principal for five years, assistant principal at middle and high school levels for six years. Parker directed secondary education in the Hillsboro School District before working in Newberg in 2012.

The Beaverton resident received his administrative license and master’s in science at Lewis and Clark. Parker earned both his bachelor’s degree in chemistry and teaching degree from Portland State University.

“I am really excited to be working with staff, students and parents in a day-to-day manner,” said Parker. “I look forward to continuing the growth at Newberg High School.