The Newberg School District has launched a nationwide search for an experienced administrator to lead the successful operation of a 1,500-student school.

The principal search follows the announcement in December by Superintendent Kym LeBlanc-Esparza that Newberg High School will return to a single principal leadership model. Since 2007, individual principals lead each of the four small schools at Newberg High School. LeBlanc-Esparza stresses that the change is not a reflection of the leadership capabilities of the four principals, but a by-product of the current school leadership structure.

There are no plans to change the small school structure. After extensive research and listening to parents, staff, students and community members, LeBlanc-Esparza agrees that the benefits of personalization in the small school structure greatly contribute to student success.

The leader of Newberg’s only high school will be responsible for improving instruction, administrative procedures, and support services of the school, according to LeBlanc-Esparza.  The successful candidate will demonstrate effective instruction leadership skills focused on student achievement, provide purpose and vision for the school, and manage the human resources to ensure an orderly work and learning environment.

The high school principal position is posted on the school district website at www.newberg.k12.or.us/jobs. Applications will be accepted through February 5, 2014.

Once applications are received and reviewed, a committee of stakeholders will select six to ten applicants for interviews. This committee of licensed, classified and administrative staff, plus parents, will recommend candidates according to qualities and qualifications expressed by school staff, students and parents. Successful candidates will visit Newberg High school and meet with students, staff and parents. Pending a site visit and reference check, finalists will meet with the superintendent, who will make the final hiring decision.