Parshall named new Jefferson County Schools superintendent
The Jefferson County S chool Board on Monday night appointed Ken Parshall to serve as the district’s new superintendent, effective July 1.
Parshall will replace Rick Molitor, who announced his retirement earlier this year. Parshall will also continue to serve as principal for Warm Springs K8 Academy in 2017/2018.
“We have seen the incredible work Ken has done in partnership with our Warm Springs team and community and we are excited to bring his skills and experience to a leadership role that will serve all of our district students, staff and families,” said JCSD 509J Board Chair Tom Norton.
Parshall worked in education for 29 years before joining the district as WSK8 principal in 2015. He also served as principal for Crook County High School between 2000-2003.
“I’m honored to be given this role and look forward to serving the students of Jefferson County and Warm Springs with a continued focus on learning every day for every student,” said Parshall.
According to Norton, the board’s decision to have Parshall continue as both superintendent for the district and principal for Warm Springs K8 Academy was an important factor.
“We want to continue the progress that’s been made in both Warm Springs and Madras and we are confident that Ken is the right person to take us to the next level with student success and staff development,” said Norton.
Prior to joining JCSD 509J two years ago, Parshall served as assistant superintendent in the Salem-Keizer School District. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Pacific University, Master’s Degree from Portland State University and an administrative credential from Lewis and Clark College.
Jefferson County School District 509-J serves the communities of Madras, Warm Springs Reservation, Metolius and Antelope with eight schools (one primary, one intermediate, two elementary, one K-8, one middle, two high schools), 2,990 students grades K-12 and 400 staff members. The district is proudly among the most culturally diverse in Oregon with equal populations of Native America, Hispanic, and Caucasian students.
