Centennial School District Selects Paul Coakley As New Superintendent

Centennial School District looked long and far to find a new superintendent. In the end, they didn't have to go that far. They have selected Paul Coakley, who has been serving as interim superintendent.

"We've had a chance to work with Paul as our Interim Superintendent for the past several months. The School Board likes the energy and steady hand he brings to the position," Board Chair Shar Giard said. "After watching Paul work and comparing what we wanted in our next Superintendent, it was an easy decision to ask him if he would continue as our next Superintendent. We are excited that he said -- yes."

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Coakley took the Centennial job last year after stops in the Rainier School District where he spent six years as principal of Hudson Park Elementary School before becoming the Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction.

Before becoming Interim Superintendent, Coakley served as Assistant Superintendent and Human Resources Director.

For Coakley, who grew up in Gresham, the job is a bit of a homecoming.

"It is truly an honor to serve as Superintendent in the community where I grew up," Coakley said in a message to the district. "Centennial is an amazing community with strong traditions, growing opportunities and an increasingly diverse population of students and families."

Coakley also received a Master's degree and Doctorate from Portland State University, where he is a professor.

Photo Centennial School District