Joseph SD Superintendent Mike Hillman welcomes back families and students
By Garrett Christensen on Monday, August 10th, 2026 in Northeastern Oregon News Northeastern Oregon Top Stories
JOSEPH – While nobody wants to admit it, summer break is starting to near its end and school districts across Eastern Oregon are preparing to receive students once more, including Joseph Charter School. For kids and families in the Joseph School District, newly appointed Superintendent and k-4 Principal Mike Hillman is excited to welcome you back. Hillman’s full letter, recently posted by the district, can be read below:
“Welcome Back Eagles!
Families, Students, and Community Members,
Welcome to a new school year! As your new superintendent, I am honored to join a district with a proud tradition of excellence, a truly exceptional staff and a community that deeply values its schools. Although I am new to the community of Joseph, I have already experienced the strong relationships, school pride, and shared commitment that make this a special place. I look forward to getting to know each of you and working together to build on the outstanding legacy of our district.
As we begin this journey, I want to share the commitment I bring to this role. Every decision I make will be guided by what we believe is best for our students and their future. I believe a school is more than a building; it is the cornerstone of learning, growth, and community. It is where students develop the knowledge, skills, and character needed for future success, where lifelong relationships are formed, and where traditions and activities bring generations together.
Strong schools are built through collaboration, trust, and transparency. I am committed to listening, learning, and working alongside our students, staff, families, School Board, and community partners to provide every student with meaningful opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed.
At our foundation, we believe every student deserves an education that challenges, inspires, and prepares them for the future. Our classrooms foster critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving while providing authentic learning experiences that connect education to life beyond school. Equally important are the opportunities students find throughout any one of many extracurricular activities. These experiences help develop confidence, responsibility, resilience, and leadership while preparing students for college or careers.
We will continue to hold high expectations for academics, attendance, behavior, and character. We are committed to creating a safe, supportive learning environment where every student is encouraged to reach their full potential. Together, students, staff, families, and our community all play an important role in fostering a culture built on respect, enthusiasm, integrity, perseverance, and kindness.
I am grateful for the opportunity to serve our district and am excited for the year ahead. I encourage you to join us at our upcoming Back-to-School events as we reconnect, welcome new families and staff, and celebrate the beginning of another outstanding school year.
Welcome back, and I’ll see you soon!
Warmly,
Mike”
