New Interim Principal Selected for High Desert Middle School

Summit High Assistant Principal Mary Thomas to serve in role

Today Superintendent Steven Cook announced that Summit High School Assistant Principal Mary Thomas has been selected to serve as interim principal at High Desert Middle School.

“Mary Thomas is an excellent communicator, who is very student-oriented. She is known as a great listener who cares deeply about developing relationships and supporting students,” said Superintendent Steven Cook. “High Desert families and staff will be well-served by Mary, an inclusive, strong leader who is ready and excited to step into this role.”

Thomas is currently serving as an Assistant Principal at Summit High School, where she has worked as an administrator for the past four years. Prior to that, she served as a classroom teacher for middle and high school students for 17 years in Bend, Sisters, Indonesia and the Portland area. Thomas also has 10 years of experience as an educator for outdoor schools in the Portland area.

“My philosophy is to lead with grace and kindness and to make sure everyone feels heard and supported. I am excited to join an incredible team of educators, who are known for putting students first,” said Thomas. “I look forward to collaborating with staff, families and students to support a safe, welcoming and inviting environment for learning.”

Thomas says she’s looking forward to serving middle school students, as she has many years of experience with this age group starting from when she served as an educator at outdoor school.

Thomas will replace Wendy McCulloch, who accepted a new position at a school district in Washington. Bend-La Pine Schools will conduct an open recruitment process for a principal in 2023.

New Interim Principal Named for Silver Rail Elementary

Lava Ridge Elementary Assistant Principal Lybe Hawkins to Serve in Role

Superintendent Steven Cook announced that Lava Ridge Elementary School Assistant Principal Lybe Hawkins (pronounced lib-ee) will serve as the interim principal at Silver Rail Elementary School for the 2022-23 school year.

“Lybe Hawkins is a strong advocate for students and a leader who supports individual needs. She is collaborative and has strong instructional skills,” said Superintendent Steven Cook. “Lybe Hawkins is also known for her positive outlook and fun, dynamic personality.”

Hawkins is currently serving as Assistant Principal at Lava Ridge Elementary, a position she has held for six years. Prior to that, she served as Student Services coordinator and teacher at Ensworth for six years. Hawkins began with Bend-La Pine Schools in 2005 at La Pine Elementary School and has 17 total years of teaching experience.

“I aim to support students, staff and families in whatever form that takes, be it school-related or life-related. My core belief is that if we lead with our hearts and build positive relationships with students, they will soar beyond our expectations,” said Hawkins.

She says she is excited about the opportunity to serve at Silver Rail and begin to build relationships with the school community.

“I believe the school community will find that I’m an approachable leader with an open door, ready to connect and collaborate,” said Hawkins.

Hawkins follows Megan Filiault, who resigned earlier this summer. Bend-La Pine Schools will conduct an open recruitment process for a principal in 2023.