La Grande superintendent receives high marks from school board
Mar. 10—LA GRANDE — La Grande School District Superintendent George Mendoza earned high marks in his most recent performance evaluation.
On Wednesday, March 8, the members of the La Grande School Board indicated approval and appreciation for the superintendent.
"You continue to exceed our expectations as superintendent," said Randy Shaw, chair of the La Grande School Board, in a letter he read at the meeting.
Mendoza was evaluated on a revised set of eight performance standards in this year's assessment.
"For all the standards we found your work effective or accomplished," Shaw said to Mendoza.
The board rated Mendoza highest in "visionary district leadership," ethics and professional norms, communications and community relations.
The board gave Mendoza an overall score of 3.7 out of 4.0.
The superintendent was credited with doing an outstanding job of taking input and preparing the school district for the future.
"You listen well and plan for future needs," Shaw said.
Shaw noted, for example, that
one of Mendoza's key accomplishments over the past 12 months
was getting the community to pass
a $4.845 million bond to help pay
for the construction of a middle
school athletic and academic
center.
The construction of the center, which will also be funded by a $4 million state matching grant, will start in June.
Mendoza displayed his ability to connect with the community while working to get the $4.845 million bond passed.
Shaw said Mendoza's willingness and ability to reach out to the
community is another of his strong points.
"You continue to maintain and build relationships with the community that support learning for all ages," the board chair said.
Mendoza came to La Grande in 2017 from the Morrow County School District, where he was an assistant superintendent.
He is a 1997 graduate of Eastern Oregon University and a member of its board of trustees.
Dick Mason is a reporter with The Observer. Contact him at 541-624-6016 or dmason@lagrandeobserver.com.