Beaverton schools superintendent will retire in June 2011

Jerry Colonna gives notice early to allow district to find its ninth leader

By Christina Lent

The Beaverton Valley Times, Jun 18, 2010, Updated Jun 24, 2010

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The Beaverton School District ended the year with a surprising announcement.

Superintendent Jerry Colonna is retiring next June after eight years leading the school district and 44 years in public education.

Colonna gave members of the School Board a letter announcing his intention to retire on June 16 and shared that letter with district staff on June 17 – the last full day with students.

“This early notice gives the board plenty of time to find an outstanding new leader,” Colonna told district staff. “I want to send you a message as well to let you know that the highlight of my career was when I was selected to be your superintendent in 2003.

“The Beaverton School District has been everything I hoped it would be.”

Colonna will continue to serve at the helm of Beaverton schools through the 2010-11 school year.

“I can assure you that while I will be retiring in 12 months, I am not retiring from my work with you during this next school year,” Colonna said. “You can count on me to give you my best every day. The Beaverton School District, while still facing many challenges, is also well positioned for the future. I look forward to the new year ahead.”