Superintendent, principal and board member leave amid board conflict

What happened

In July 2026 Superintendent Kristin Whitley resigned, after the principal and the district's mental health counselor had also left. On July 7, 15-year board member Ann Kelly resigned during the meeting, saying the board president was interfering with administrators and creating a toxic environment for staff. Only three board members remained until two new members were appointed August 4.

Why it matters to families

Dufur is running with an interim superintendent and a largely new board and principal. Parents and staff told the board that the conflict is affecting classrooms and causing resignations. Several board seats are expected to be on the spring 2027 ballot.

The evidence

July 7, 2026 recording: Kelly's resignation letter read into the record, naming the board president, and public comments about resignations. July 8 recording: superintendent resignation accepted. Columbia Gorge News (Sept 15, 2026) confirms the names and reports the board fell from six members in January to three, with Dave Beeson replacing Tim Fain as chair.

The source