Business/Civic Leaders Called to the Principal’s Office of Bend-LaPine Schools

Central Oregon business and civic leaders are being called to the Bend-LaPine Schools Principals’ offices through the Education Foundation’s annual Principal of the Day “friend” raiser. On Friday, November 30, community leaders are invited to serve as the “honorary principal” to learn the joys and challenges that our local administrators face.

“Principal of the Day is a great way for leaders in schools and the business community to share ideas, resources, and to foster collective responsibility for public education,” said Heather Vihstadt, Education Foundation executive director. “By providing a first-hand perspective of the decisions that principals face daily, participants are encouraged to take a greater interest in student learning.”

Each participant begins the program at the start of the school day and shadows a school principal until lunch time. The event culminates with a leadership and networking luncheon at the Education Center hosted by the Education Foundation and sponsored by OnPoint Community Credit Union and BLAST.

“The Principal of the Day program allows business, civic and education leaders to work together and understand the realities, stark choices, and deep commitment that define the job of a school principal,” said Ron Wilkinson, Superintendent, Bend-LaPine Schools. “We have found that the relationships created through this program build the foundation of a strong and lasting bond between our community leaders and our schools.”

“As a member of the business community and as a parent with kids in the Bend-La Pine School District, this is a special opportunity to step into the shoes of our Principals, if only for a few hours, to see the challenges that educators are facing today,” said Wendy Graunit, OnPoint Community Credit Union asst. branch manager. “Through this shared experience, we can find ways to support our schools and the important work of educators in our community.”

Each prospective participant must complete an interest form. Following submission, all participants will receive their school assignments with details about the event. For more information, please contact Heather Vihstadt, Executive Director at 541.355.5660 or at education.foundation@bend.k12.or.us.