January 18, 2023

Schmidt named new Director of K-12 Education

Sam Barlow High School Principal to begin work in new position July 1

The Gresham-Barlow School District announced today that Sam Barlow High School (SBHS) Principal Bruce Schmidt Jr. has been selected as the District’s new director of K-12 education, effective July 1, 2023. 

The District is adding a K-12 education director and restructuring the responsibilities held by Deputy Superintendent John Koch. This change will allow for building level operational support and school based leadership and guidance with respect to K-12 schools. As a result, John Koch will be able to focus more fully on the executive leadership responsibilities related to strategy,  district policy, litigation, and district-wide due process.

“Principal Schmidt has a strong background in school operations thanks to his successful work leading middle school and high school programs,” said Superintendent James Hiu. “That experience will be a benefit to our school community as he oversees and supports the day-to-day operations of our elementary, middle, and high schools across the District.”

Schmidt has served as principal of Sam Barlow High School since 2014. During his time leading SBHS, he worked tirelessly advocating for the continuous improvement of learning and teaching and focusing staff on closing the achievement gap. Prior to leading SBHS, he served as principal of Gordon Russell Middle School. Before joining the administrative ranks, Schmidt was a National Board Certified Teacher and taught science and technology classes at the high school level. A long-time employee of the school district, Schmidt has worked in Gresham-Barlow Schools for 24 years. 

During the next several weeks, a process will be put in place to select Sam Barlow High School’s next principal. The selection process will include the involvement of SBHS staff and parents.