Morrow County School District has announced a strategic reconfiguration of its administrative structure to better align resources with student and staff needs while maintaining a strong commitment to fiscal responsibility.
This reorganization reflects two primary priorities: reducing overall staffing costs and ensuring that administrative support is placed where it is most needed across the district. As part of this effort, the district has carefully evaluated current roles, responsibilities, and building-level needs to create a more efficient and responsive leadership structure.
In addition, this reconfiguration marks an important first step in transitioning toward a K–12 model in the Heppner community. This shift is intended to create greater continuity for students and families, streamline systems of support, and strengthen collaboration among staff serving students across grade levels.
As part of this transition, the district is making the following administrative appointments:
Ryan Gerry will serve as the Heppner K–12 Principal.
Karen Shelton is being appointed as the Heppner K–12 Vice Principal.
Rich Harshberger will transition from Instructional Coach to Dean of Students at Riverside Jr./Sr. High School in Boardman.
Sarah Christy has been formally appointed as Principal of Sam Boardman Elementary School, removing the interim designation assigned in December.
Rachel Herron will continue as an Elementary Administrator with a refined focus on K–3 support, while maintaining district-level administrative responsibilities.
Superintendent Matt Combe said, “Every decision we make is grounded in doing what is best for students while being responsible stewards of public resources. This reconfiguration allows us to focus our administrative support where it will have the greatest impact and begin building a more cohesive K–12 experience for our Heppner students.”
Combe said the district worked to ensure that changes were made thoughtfully, with consideration for both current needs and long-term goals. The transition to the new administrative structure will take place at the opening of the 2026-2027 school year, with district leadership working closely with staff to support a smooth and effective implementation.