Erika Skaar named new principal of Buff Elementary School in Madras

MADRAS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- We are thrilled to announce a new principal of Buff Elementary School. Erika Skaar brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to our community, having served within our district for the past 15 years, and is a proud member of the Class of 2005 from Madras High School.

Here's the rest of Friday's announcement by Jefferson County School District 509J:

Skaar began her teaching career with us as a first-grade teacher at Madras Elementary, where she demonstrated her passion for education. She then transitioned to Buff Elementary, dedicating 10 years to teaching kindergarten. Her innovative teaching methods and dedication to student success earned her the respect and admiration of both colleagues and families, as well as individual awards.

“I am so excited for this opportunity to continue to serve the families at Buff Elementary,” Skaar said. “The community of Jefferson County has been my home since I was a child, and I am thankful to give back to the community that helped shape me into the person I am today.”

For the past two years, Skaar has excelled in her role as an instructional coach at Buff Elementary. In this capacity, she worked closely with the former principal to enhance instructional practices and support teachers' professional growth. Her leadership was instrumental in driving academic excellence and fostering a collaborative learning environment.

During her time in our district, Skaar has also served as the school learning coordinator, leading professional development initiatives for her building and other elementary schools in our district. She played a key role in leading grade-level teams during ELA unit planning meetings.

In addition, she has been an AVID co-site team coordinator and an active member of the math planning committee, ELA planning committee, and the ELA and Math Curriculum adoption committee. Her extensive experience and dedication to our district make her qualified to lead Buff Elementary into a bright future.

Skaar takes over the principal position following the transition of our previous principal, Billie White, to the position of Director of Curriculum and Instruction within our district. White served as principal from 2015-2024. The former Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Melinda Boyle, is now our HR Director, a role she previously held from 2004 to 2009. She served as our Director of Curriculum and Instruction for the past 15 years.