Swisher takes Crook County position

Steve Swisher has signed on to become interim superintendent at Crook County School District.

"The school board in Crook County ratified a contract today (Monday, June 7)," Swisher said.

Swisher said both he and the school board have expressed interest in a more long-term position.

Swisher, who retired as Sisters Schools Superintendent last year due to pension considerations, said he was thrilled to land a job in Central Oregon.

"First of all, it's in Central Oregon, where we want to live," he said.

"Second it's a very positive school district."

Swisher said his predecessor, Gary Peterson, had left the district moving in a progressive direction.

The district is about twice as large as Sisters, which gives educators room to operate some exciting programs, including thriving ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps) and FFA (Future Farmers of America) programs.

"You have more options and opportunities because of the size of school," he said.

Swisher will also continue to mentor former Kalmiopsis Elementary School Principal Chris McKay, who will be his replacement in Brookings, where Swisher has served as interim superintendent for 2003-04.

Swisher said he will commute from Sisters initially, but plans to seek temporary housing in Prineville.

He declined to discuss whether he plans a permanent move if the job turns out to be long-term.

"I'm not even going to speculate on that for the time being," he said. However, he emphasized, "we're never going to sell our Sisters home."