Lisa Birk named deputy superintendent of Bend-La Pine Schools

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Bend-La Pine Schools announced Thursday it has hired Lisa Birk as its new deputy superintendent, effective July 1. With 13 years of leadership experience in the district, Birk will replace Deputy Superintendent Lora Nordquist, who is retiring after serving the district for 16 years.

Primary responsibilities of the deputy superintendent include supporting the planning and coordination of district-wide educational programs. This position plays a central role in achieving the district's goals of increasing elementary-level literacy, helping students find and connect to their purpose, including post-graduation success, and fostering a sense of belonging for all within each of the district’s 33 schools.

“Lisa’s experience and professional pathway in our district provides her with a deep understanding of where we’ve been as a district,” Superintendent Steve Cook said. “Lisa is an educational leader who embraces the values of supporting all students, promoting a culture of transparent action and trust, and strengthening the connections between our schools and administrative team.

"She is a courageous and decisive leader who brings unique insights, understands and embraces where we are going, and adds energy and vision to the role of deputy superintendent. I’m excited to have Lisa step into this pivotal position.”

Birk has worked in the Bend-La Pine district for 17 years and currently is one of two executive directors overseeing elementary programs. Previously she was principal at Bear Creek Elementary School for two years and at Pacific Crest Middle School for two years. She also served as Assistant Principal at Pacific Crest, Student Services Coordinator/Assistant Principal at Bear Creek, and a special education teacher at Juniper Elementary School.

“I feel lucky to have been part of Bend-La Pine Schools for so many years and I believe in the work we do each day for students,” Birk said. “I'm proud to be part of a team of many committed individuals as we work to advance our mission of Educating Thriving Students. It is an honor to move into this role and I look forward to continuing to serve the students, staff and families of Bend, La Pine and Sunriver.”