Crook County School District appoints Dr. Joel Hoff as permanent superintendent, overwhelming community backing

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Crook County School District Board of Directors approved a three-year contract on Monday, April 13, officially appointing Dr. Joel Hoff as the district's permanent superintendent. This decision follows a comprehensive stakeholder engagement process that showed strong community support for Dr. Hoff.

The stakeholder engagement process included a survey and listening sessions with families, staff and community members. A significant 97% of respondents indicated they were in favor of Dr. Hoff serving as superintendent, signaling a clear consensus for stability and continued positive momentum within the district.

Survey participants highlighted several of Dr. Hoff's key strengths, including his deep commitment to Crook County schools and community, student-centered and data-informed decision making, his ability to build trusting relationships, effective communication skills, and an approachable leadership style.

A consistent theme throughout the listening sessions indicated that stakeholders feel the district is experiencing positive momentum and expressed a strong desire to see that progress continue under Dr. Hoff's leadership. The board's decision reflects a shared commitment to sustaining this momentum while advancing educational excellence.

Scott Cooper, board vice chair for the Crook County School District Board of Directors, noted the improved atmosphere in the district. "The climate in the District is much improved and significantly calmer than it was just a year ago," Cooper said. "The positives continue to mount. That is largely attributable to Dr. Hoff's leadership. The board actively went out to the community and asked about retaining Dr. Hoff versus running an open search. The consensus was clear that what the District really needs right now is stability and the board heeded that advice by keeping a high performer in his seat. We look forward to more good things."

Dr. Hoff previously served one year as interim superintendent. Before that role, he spent five years as assistant superintendent, gaining extensive experience and becoming well versed in all aspects of district leadership.

During his time as interim superintendent, Dr. Hoff worked to establish a clear set of vision and values for the district, strengthen instructional leadership and implement systems designed to improve student outcomes.

Dr. Hoff shared his commitment to the district's future. "I look forward to keeping our district's focus where it belongs—on our students—while continuing to support our incredible staff and strengthening the systems that help every learner succeed," Hoff said. "I'm also committed to deepening our partnerships with families and the Crook County community to continue building an exceptional school system together."

As superintendent, Dr. Hoff will continue working alongside staff, families and community partners to strengthen instructional systems, support educators and ensure every student has the opportunity to learn, grow and graduate prepared for their future.