Award presented to La Pine High School Principal Scott Olszewski

Bend-La Pine Schools presented its Administrator of the Year award Friday evening to Scott Olszewski, Principal of La Pine High School. Superintendent Steven Cook and other district officials made the surprise presentation during halftime of the La Pine High Hawks home football game.

Olszewski has been with Bend-La Pine Schools for 19 years and is in his fourth year as principal at La Pine High School. His leadership is rooted in building strong relationships with students, staff, families, and the broader community.

“Scott is someone who not only fosters an inclusive and positive culture, but also inspires others to rise to their fullest potential,” Dr. Cook said. “He sees challenges not as roadblocks, but as opportunities for growth, and he has made it his mission to ensure that every voice counts and every individual is valued in our schools.”

From his innovative approach to improving school culture and climate, to his relentless commitment to student achievement, Olszewski is always pushing for progress.

“What truly sets Scott apart is his unwavering dedication to the people he serves,” Dr. Cook said. “He is the first to step in when there’s a need, and the last to leave when there’s work to be done. His collaborative spirit, combined with his deep understanding of the needs of our students and staff, has earned him the respect and admiration of all who work with him.”

Dr. Cook was joined Friday night by School Board Director Shirley Olson, Deputy Superintendent Lisa Birk, Executive Director of High Schools Katie Legace, and other District leaders. On behalf of Olszewski, representatives of MidOregon Credit Union presented La Pine High School with a $500 check. MidOregon operates a student branch inside La Pine High School and helps teach students financial literacy.

The District will present two more Excellence in Education awards in the coming weeks, one for an educator and one for a support staff member. The Excellence in Education awards honor custodians, counselors, kitchen managers, classroom teachers, educational assistants, office managers, bus drivers and other district employees who have had a positive impact on students.

The recognition began last spring when Bend-La Pine Schools honored dozens of staff members from across the district who distinguished themselves with their leadership, innovation, outstanding professional practice, and positive contributions at work and in the community. From that group, 13 finalists have been celebrated this fall.