Former Crook County Schools superintendent Sara Johnson will join the High Desert Education Service District as its next superintendent after Paul Andrews retires June 30. Johnson will begin in July.

The education service district handles regional services for Bend-La Pine Schools, Redmond School District, Sisters School District and Crook County Schools. Those services include substitute teachers, early childhood education, special education, drivers education and other specialized services.

Johnson led Crook County Schools from 2018 to 2023 and has over 25 years of experience in education. She resigned from the district last June, citing a rift with school board members Cheyenne Edgerly, Jessica Brumble and Jennifer Knight. The three board members were sworn in that July after running on a campaign that alleged sexualization of education materials and attitudes in schools.

The education service district board of directors strongly considered Johnson’s knowledge Central Oregon, as well as her experience as a superintendent, as part of their criteria. Staff, community members and school district partners also provided input throughout the search, which began in January.

Johnson was named Oregon Superintendent of the Year in 2023. She previously served as director of assessment, equity and school improvement for Klamath County School District.