Oak Heights School will have an interim principal for the foreseeable future, the Sweet Home School District announced Friday afternoon, March 27.
A Parent Square message from Supt. Terry Martin, posted at 1:15 p.m. on Friday, stated
“I want you to be aware that Lisa Leatham will be serving as Oak Heights’ acting principal following Spring Break while Principal Todd Barrett is away. Lisa is an experienced school leader who has successfully guided schools in both the Fern Ridge and Sweet Home School districts.
“I am confident that Lisa’s leadership and experience will greatly benefit our students and staff.”
In response to a request from The New Era for clarification as to whether Principal Todd Barrett is on administrative leave for some reason, following social media chatter that included unsubstantiated reports on reasons for Barrett’s absence as school resumed after Spring Break, Martin issued the following statement Monday afternoon, March 30: “The Sweet Home School District understands that there has been community discussion regarding staff who are currently away from their position.
“When concerns involving an employee come to the district’s attention, we follow established procedures, which can include placing an employee on administrative leave while the matter is reviewed. Because this involves a personnel matter, state and federal confidentiality laws prohibit the district from sharing specific details.
“Our top priority in every situation is the safety and well-being of our students and staff. We take any concerns seriously and follow appropriate procedures to ensure schools remain safe and supportive learning environments.
“We appreciate the community’s understanding and ask that individuals avoid spreading rumors or unverified information.”
Leatham served as interim principal at Foster School during much of the 2024-25 school year until the district hired Shelly Nurre to fill that position permanently, beginning this school year. She previously was a principal at Veneta Elementary School in the Fern Ridge district.