David Douglas' Next School Superintendent May Already Work for the District

The School Board announced Friday they'll run an internal search to replace Don Grotting by July 14.

David Douglas School Superintendent Don Grotting, who led the district for six years, announced this week that he's leaving to run the Beaverton School District.

But the East Portland district, long celebrated for overachieving and diversity, plans to look to its own deep bench for its next honcho.

The David Douglas School Board announced today they'll be seeking a new superintendent by looking within the district's own ranks.

District officials said they adopted criteria for selection similar to when Grotting was chosen, including "a strong leader with unquestioned personal integrity and trustworthiness" and "committed to transparency and openness in District operations."

Grotting was recruited to the district, however, from the eastern Oregon district of Nyassa.

Grotting was named superintendent of the year for 2014, but he has plenty of company at David Douglas in being recognized for stellar leadership. Since 2012, three principals, a curriculum director and another administrator as well as an assistant principal have also been recognized for statewide honors, according to the district.

Willamette Week

Willamette Week’s reporting has concrete impacts that change laws, force action from civic leaders, and drive compromised politicians from public office. Support WW's journalism today.