By Kristine Thomas
Dandy Stevens is the new assistant superintendent for the Silver Falls School District. She replaces Eric Swenson who now works in the Woodburn School District. Stevens was the principal at Mark Twain Middle School.
“We have always been a district of excellence but there is a shift happening that is taking us to the next level,” Stevens said. “I think people are excited about the energy and openness and willingness to try new things.”
Stevens’ goal is to serve as a resource to staff.
“I hope if a teacher needs assistance on how to do something new in the classroom, she will come to me and we can talk about it,” Stevens said. “If it doesn’t work, that’s OK. We are better for the experience. ”
“Dandy’s passion for education, her school experience and overall skill set will be assets,” Superintendent Andy Bellando said.
Curriculum Director Linda Myers is moving full-time to the district office. Previously, she worked as curriculum director and principal of Victor Point. She will be responsible for the professional development program and grant oversight and management.
“She is an expert in this field and an essential part of the district as we continue to best support the needs of all students,” Bellando said.
“Public education is undergoing such rapid changes that it has been nearly impossible to stay ahead and it is time to dedicate a full-time position to curriculum,” Myers said. “With the implementation of Common Core standards, a new state assessment system, and new measures for teacher effectiveness and student proficiency, it is the right time to make this move.
“Dandy and I have worked closely together in her previous roles. I’m super excited to work along-side her on district-wide initiatives,” Myers said.
Bellando said he hopes to have a new principal hired at Mark Twain by the end of July. Jamie McCarty was hired as the principal at Silver Crest and Victor Point schools.
