04/21/2026
The Cascade Locks Community is invited tonight! Childcare will be provided!
Dear Cascade Locks Elementary community,
We are pleased to announce that after a thorough initial screening and initial interviews, we have selected two exceptional finalists for the position of Cascade Locks Elementary School Principal: Holly Lavoie and Sarah Maddox.
Our search has focused on identifying a leader who aligns with the Hood River County School District (HRCSD) strategic plan and the specific needs identified in our community listening sessions. Specifically, we recognize that Cascade Locks Elementary is transitioning to a model that integrates administrative leadership with direct licensed instruction. Our finalists were selected for their proven track record in the classroom and their readiness to lead our school while staying deeply connected to student learning. These candidates will visit us on Tuesday, April 21, for a rigorous final round of evaluations.
Brief professional biographies for each finalist are included; candidates will have the opportunity to share more extensively about their backgrounds and leadership experiences during the public forums.
Meet the Finalists
Holly Lavoie
Holly Lavoie has 25 years of experience in education, currently serving as a reading and math specialist for the Hood River County School District. She earned a Master of Education from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and holds a Principal License from Portland State University. Holly’s professional background includes extensive experience as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and director of both K-8 and 9-12 summer school programs. Her leadership expertise includes facilitating district-wide Professional Learning Communities, leading curriculum adoption committees, and coordinating school-wide AVID implementation to support student achievement.
Sarah Maddox
Sarah Maddox brings over 23 years of experience in education to the finalist role, currently serving as a reading specialist within the Hood River County School District. She holds a Master of Education from Northern Arizona University and is completing her Educational Leadership and Principal Licensure through the University of Oregon. Throughout her career, Sarah has held diverse roles, including kindergarten and first grade teacher, reading interventionist, and K-8 summer school co-director. Her professional focus centers on instructional leadership and implementing the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) to foster equity and academic success for all students.
Community Participation Schedule
We invite all staff, parents, and community members to participate in the upcoming school forums. Your feedback is essential to ensuring we select the right fit for our students, staff, and community.
Tuesday, April 21, at Cascade Locks Elementary School
Staff Forum: 2:30pm to 3:30pm
Community Forum: 5pm to 6pm
Our Selection Process
The final decision will be guided by an equity-based process, using standardized rubrics, references, and data gathered from our interview committee. The selection process is designed to ensure our next leader can balance the operational needs of the principalship with the specialized instructional needs of our students. We are committed to transparency and community involvement as we take this final step in securing the future leadership of Cascade Locks Elementary School.
We look forward to seeing you at the forums.
Sincerely,
Bill Newton, Superintendent
