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Staff and union leaders urge collaborative, transparent superintendent
Summary
Teachers, classified staff and union representatives told the board they want a relationship‑driven, transparent superintendent who respects collective bargaining, values classified staff, supports CTE and ensures special‑education accessibility.
Staff speakers at the Vernonia SD 47J listening session pressed the board to prioritize collaborative leadership in the upcoming superintendent hire.
Cameron Irick, an instructional assistant and president of the classified employees' union OSEA, told the board “an ideal superintendent would be relationship driven, transparent, fair, and deeply respectful of all educators' voices and contracts” and warned against unilateral decision‑making or tactics that could undermine bargaining relationships.
Several teachers urged clear, consistent communication and professional development tailored to the district’s mix of long‑tenured and newer staff. Lee Costanzo, a CTE teacher, cited data from the regional consortium showing that students who complete at least two CTE credits graduate at higher rates — “97.8%” statewide and “99.4 percent” locally — and argued the district should sustain hands‑on vocational programs as the economy changes.
Speakers also raised concerns about combining the superintendent and special‑education director roles without ensuring daily accessibility for SPED staff; a staff member said that uncertainty over who is responsible for time‑sensitive Individualized Education Program (IEP) work has caused missed deadlines and frustration.
Board members and the consultant acknowledged those concerns and said the survey and screening process would include specific questions about SPED experience, collaboration with unions, and support for classified staff.
