Alex Leaver, 49, is the new principal at Welches Schools.

Leaver takes over the post that has been difficult to fill in the past year.
Michael McKinney was named principal in 2009 to replace the retiring Mike
Sutton. However, he resigned mid-term. Tim Fields was selected for the 2010-
11 school year but resigned before taking over due to an “incident” at
Rosemont Ridge Middle School – his previous position.

“I understand there might be some apprehension (in the community),” Leaver
said. “That’s normal. But I’ve wanted this job for a long time. I’m ecstatic.
Thrilled. My commitment is to enjoy and prosper at Welches Schools.”
Then, with a chuckle, he added: “I plan on outlasting Mike Sutton.”

Leaver, and his wife Jenn, have five children, the youngest being 4 years old.
“I intend to see him go through my school,” he said.

Leaver comes from Patton Middle School in the McMinnville School District,
where he has held the position of vice principal the past two years. He has
four years of school administration experience and 14 years of classroom
teaching – including 10 years in elementary school.

Leaver applied for the position that Fields eventually won.

“But this time, the second time, I was honored,” Leaver said.

“The past four years we’ve been coming to the Mountain, camping in
Rhododendron, and driving by the school, saying ‘someday, maybe.’ Now, it
all came together.”

OTSD Superintendent Shelley Redinger was impressed with Leaver’s
experience and expertise.

“Alex has a wide range of experiences that will serve the needs of the
elementary and middle schools well,” Redinger said. “But more importantly,
he is enthusiastic about becoming involved in our Mountain community.”

OTSD Human Resources Director Ken Bucchi was equally impressed with the
incoming principal.

“Alex appears to possess the unique blend that all effective leaders must have
– a passion and enthusiasm for his work, an ability and desire to connect with
people, and a solid aptitude for his profession,” Bucchi said.

A committee of staff and parents spent several weeks in July reviewing
applications and interviewing candidates, and unanimously selected Leaver as
their next school leader, according to Julia Monteith, communications director
of OTSD.

In the interview process, Leaver summed up his candidacy.

“I have an appreciation for the wonderful energy, spontaneity and wisdom of
kids.”