Beginning the 2024-25 school year Kimberlee Armstrong is Oregon’s largest school district’s new superintendent! Guadelupe Guerrero, Portland Public Schools former superintendent has stepped down since the 2023-2024 school year, leading to a half-year long search the school board finalized and announced their decision that she would start on July 1st of this year, beginning her three year contract.
Armstrong began her career as a school teacher in the public school district of Puyallup, Washington and has served various educational roles over the last 20 years. She most recently served as deputy superintendent of Evergreen Public Schools in Vancouver, but more locally as the cabinet-level Chief Academic Officer for Portland Public Schools. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, as well as a Masters Degree in Business Administration and Teaching. Beyond professional credentials, Armstrong is an active member of the community, with an understanding of the city and schools as a PPS parent.
During the challenging times of Covid-19 related school closures, the teacher strike, and budget reductions, the city is confident that Kimberlee Armstrong is the help parents, students, and teachers have hoped for. School Board Chair Gary Hollands said in a recent OPB article “Dr. Armstrong is just what PPS needs in this time of opportunity and challenge.” KGW8 news released an article revealing that the Portland Public School’s board said in a statement sent to families that Armstrong “has a demonstrated record of advancing student achievement, addressing racial inequities, and closing the achievement gap for students of color through her dynamic approach to classroom innovation, curriculum enhancement, and professional development.” PPS is optimistic that Armstrong’s experience and care will translate to a successful term in leadership!
