North Clackamas Schools Superintendent Named Best In Nation

When Matthew Utterback became superintendent of the North Clackamas School District, it was one mired in problems - not the least of which was a 69 percent graduation rate. Four years later, the graduation rate is 83 percent.

And the turnaround has been noticed.

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Last October he was named Oregon's superintendent of the year. On Thursday, he was named the National Superintendent of the Year by the School Superintendents Association at their annual conference in New Orleans.

"It's an incredible honor to represent our school district in the state of Oregon at the national level," said Utterback. "The National Superintendent of the Year has an opportunity to share stories, to share learning and to share the good work that is happening in public schools across our country."

Utterback, who has been in public education for more than three decades, was principal of Clackamas High School before taking over the district. As superintendent, he leads a district with more than 17,000 students spread over 32 campuses.

When he was named Oregon Superintendent of The Year, his colleagues said it was well-deserved.

"Matt Utterback is one of the best educators that I have ever worked with," said Darin Drill, superintendent of Cascade School District and President-Elect of Oregon Association of School Executives. "He is thoughtful, articulate, and very passionate about the students and families he works for.

"Matt finds ways to create new opportunities for every student to be successful and at the same time always keeps his eye on ensuring that North Clackamas School District continues to improve. He is above reproach and will always do his best work for the students he serves."

Photo North Clackamas School District