Summit HS assistant principal gets top spot

Bend-La Pine Schools Superintendent Shay Mikalson announced Wednesday that Summit High School Assistant Principal Michael McDonald has been selected to become the school’s next principal.

McDonald, chosen from among four finalists, has served as the assistant principal at Summit since 2004. He will be the school’s fourth principal since it opened in 2001.

Mikalson called McDonald’s leadership style “personal and growth-oriented.”

“I look forward to seeing Michael continue the excellent work that has always been a hallmark of the Summit community and student body,” Mikalson said. “Michael is a strong leader and a champion for our students and staff.”

McDonald’s background includes more than 25 years in education in Oregon. In his role as assistant principal at Summit, he has worked to foster effective teacher practices and responsive academic and emotional support systems for students. He has also worked at the district and state levels to improve teacher evaluation and graduation rates.

McDonald said he plans to spend a lot of time listening, asking questions and “listening some more” as he transitions into his new role.

“I think of the dedicated staff at Summit High School as a resource of wisdom, experience and guidance. They are experts in their respective disciplines and duties and incredibly dedicated to serving the needs of students,” McDonald said.

“Our parents and students are also key contributors to our success and offer a unique lens into high school life. I plan to continue building on the strong collaborative foundation we currently enjoy and to learn more about their vision for the future.”

McDonald will begin his new position July 1; current Summit High School principal Alice DeWittie is retiring from public education and will be at Summit through June.