PRINEVILLE, OR -- Crook County Schools Superintendent Dr. Sara Johnson plans to resign July sixth, a year before the end of her contract. At Monday’s school board meeting, she’ll ask for a mutual termination agreement.

Three new board members - dubbed “the mama bears” during the May 2023 election - ousted three sitting members, and a fourth recently resigned following a brain injury. 

Dr. Johnson refused KBND's request for an interview but issued a written statement. "When the new school board members begin their terms in July, Scott Cooper will be the only existing board member who hired me five years ago" she said, "It’s become evident that the new board members do not share my vision or mission for district leadership and how to operate the school district. I believe we are all better when working collaboratively together and focusing on the success of every student. It has become clear that it is in the best interest of the school district - and me - to step aside and allow the new board to select their own leader." 

Dr. Johnson was recognized as Oregon's Principal of the Year in 2007 and Superintendent of the Year for 2023.

"I’m incredibly proud of the systems we created to produce high graduation rates and track younger students to prevent them from falling through the cracks. We’re making gains in elementary math and English, and the teamwork and collaboration between teachers and administrators are inspiring. We’ve worked hard over the past few years to elevate staff pay so we can compete with neighboring school districts and keep good people in Crook County," said Johnson. "I’m proud of our fiscal management, which has allowed us to increase programs, retain teachers, and reduce class sizes. We’ve created a comprehensive reading program, improved interventions, and dramatically enhanced our support of Pioneer High School Alternative students. I’ve had a great relationship with the existing school board members and appreciate how we collaborated respectfully together to achieve these accomplishments and keep students as the main focus of our work."

One board vacancy is expected to be filled Monday. The three newly elected members will be sworn in on July 17. They will select the new superintendent for the 2023-24 school year.