ST. HELENS, Ore. — The St. Helens School District has appointed a new acting principal at St. Helens High School. Dr. Charlotte Ellis will step into the role starting Wednesday, according to a news release from the district. The district did not say if her appointment is for a specific duration.
The appointment comes about a week after current Principal Dr. Katy Wagner was indicted on charges of criminal mistreatment and official misconduct stemming from a sex abuse scandal involving multiple teachers at the school. Wagner had already been placed on administrative leave by the district school board, along with Superintendent Scot Stockwell.
The scandal began in mid-November when two St. Helens High School teachers, one current and one retired, were arrested and charged with multiple counts of sexual abuse. The revelations set off days of protests from both students and parents, who accused Wagner and other district leaders of suppressing multiple reports of sexual abuse.
The district listed three "key areas" where Ellis will focus as she starts: stabilizing campus administration, rebuilding relationships, and restoring trust and elevating student voice.
"My moral purpose has always been rooted in a deep commitment to serving others and putting students first, and it is this guiding principle that has led me to this role," Ellis said in a statement. "I am deeply honored to serve the St. Helens community and am dedicated to listening with empathy, responding with care and compassion, and working tirelessly to rebuild the trust that is essential to our schools and community. A key part of this effort is lifting the voices of our students, ensuring they are heard and valued. As a servant leader, I place students at the heart of every decision and to do what is right for them. I look forward to beginning this important work immediately."
Ellis holds a doctorate in education from the University of Washington and has previously served in administrative leadership roles, including principal and assistant principal, at schools in the Pasco, Yakima, and most recently, Tillamook school districts.
The St. Helens School District also announced that it has "partnered" with Ken Parshall, formerly the Superintendent of Schools at the Jefferson County School District. Parshall will "provide additional support and guidance to the high school administrative team" and "collaborate with St. Helens High School administrators and staff to further strengthen school operations and outcomes," according to the news release, which did not say if Parshall will have a specific title.
"We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Ellis to St. Helens High School. Her track record of success in leading schools and her focus on building safe, supportive, and equitable learning environments will be invaluable as we work together to ensure the success of every student," Acting Superintendent Dr. Steve Webb said in a statement. "With the added expertise of Mr. Ken Parshall, I am confident our St. Helens High School administrative team will move the school forward in meaningful and impactful ways."
