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Clackamas Education Service District Director Zone 3 Choose 1

The 19 education service districts in Oregon were created by the Legislature to oversee and support the school districts in their area. They provide supplemental services such as special education and coordinate services shared among several school districts. They also certify teachers, maintain school property, and are empowered to create new school districts.Qualifications: Candidate must be a registered voter and a resident of the district for at least 1 year. Employees of the district are not eligible. ORS 334.090(5), 334.090(6).Term: 4 years

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Rick Larson (N)

Biographical Information

Town Where You Live WEST LINN, OREGON
Your Experience/Qualifications I have worked to support and improve public education in Oregon for over 40 years. My employment includes positions as a classified employee, senior administrative employee and director on the Board of Education. I have also worked as an auditor of Oregon school districts. I have experience with school district finance and budgets as well as policy development and recruitment and hiring of Superintendents.
County Clackamas
Term 4 Years
Term Expires 6/30/2029

What relevant skills and experience do you bring to this position?

In my previous roles, I have successfully collaborated with various stakeholders to foster innovation and implement programs that support student success. I believe in the power of community and collaboration. I am committed to working together with parents, educators, and fellow board members to drive school improvement. As a member of the ESD Board, I will prioritize transparency, accountability, and open communication. I promise to listen to your concerns and ideas because your voices are essential in shaping the future of our educational landscape.

What functions of the ESD are most important to you?

The services the ESD provides to children with disabilities is, to me, the most important function. By providing these services countywide, children receive education from staff specializing in their particular disability. This is also the most cost-effective service delivery method because individual school districts, particularly small districts, cannot hire the staff needed to serve these high needs, low incidence disabilities. In addition, the early childhood services for ages 0 to 5 lessen the need for expensive special education services in the future.

How can the ESD better serve the area’s school districts?

The ESD is always striving to innovate and meet the emerging needs of the 10 school districts in Clackamas County. Continuing a strong early childhood program and fighting for adequate state and federal financial support is critically important. Expanding the ESD's community partnerships with schools, cities, fire districts and others is an ongoing priority.