Pat Dutcher leaving Pendleton High School, community input sought for next principal

PENDLETON — Pendleton High School Principal Pat Dutcher is leaving his position after five years to lead his alma mater, Sprague High School in Salem, the Pendleton School District announced.

The district is immediately launching an expedited search for Dutcher’s successor to ensure a new leader is in place before the upcoming school year begins. District officials emphasized that despite the compressed timeline, the hiring process will heavily prioritize community and stakeholder input.

“Mr. Dutcher has dedicated the past five years to serving the students, staff, and families of Pendleton High School,” Superintendent Michelle Jensen said. “While we are saddened to see him leave, we are excited for him and his family as they begin this next chapter.”

Jensen noted that the district’s goal is to find a leader who will honor school traditions while building upon its existing culture and “Buckaroo Pride.”

The principal position has already been posted, and recruitment is underway. To guide the selection process, the district is inviting staff, students, families, and community members to complete an online feedback survey detailing the qualities they desire in the next principal. This feedback will be used to screen applicants and shape interview questions.

District officials will begin reviewing applications on July 6, with interviews scheduled to start shortly after.

Parents and staff have received the survey link through ParentSquare. The community survey link is included below and will also be shared on the Pendleton School District website and district Facebook page in the coming days. Community members are encouraged to participate and help shape the future leadership of Pendleton High School.

Community Principal Search Survey:
Community Feedback Survey- PHS Principal Search

Photo courtesy Pendleton School District

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