MEDFORD, Ore. – Dr. Bret Champion, superintendent of the Medford School District, announced his resignation Thursday, February 28th, effective June 30, following months of scrutiny and tensions within the district.
His decision ends a six-year tenure marked by both significant accomplishments and controversial moments.
In a statement, Champion said while the community expressed a desire to focus on students, a vocal minority continued to shift attention to adult-centered issues. “Something needs to change, and I’m willing to be that change,” Champion said. “I’ve decided that the best way to refocus on students is to step aside.”
His resignation follows a series of complaints and public clashes at school board meetings. Notably, Champion filed a formal complaint against board Michael Williams in November. There was also a tense confrontation between Williams and Ron Havniear, the district’s director of security, who claimed Williams brought a knife to a meeting. These incidents, along with heated debates at recent school board meetings, have contributed to a divided atmosphere within the community.
Champion’s announcement has sparked mixed reactions. Medford School Board Chair Cynthia Wright expressed admiration for Champion’s leadership. “In the past 24 hours, we have heard an outpouring of support from parents, teachers and community members who are deeply saddened by the loss of a superintendent who has led with integrity, transparency and innovation,” Wright said in a statement.
However, some community members have criticized how Champion handled certain situations during his tenure, particularly the ongoing controversies involving district employees.
The Medford Education Association (MEA) also commented on Champion’s resignation. Jessica Fitzsimmons, president of the MEA and a parent in the district, issued a statement saying, “We remain committed to ensuring that the needs of our students, educators and school communities continue to be the top priority during this time of change.”
Fitzsimmons emphasized the importance of collaboration in the transition to new leadership, highlighting the need for policies that support educators and enhance student learning.
With the Medford School Board still processing Champion’s resignation, the next steps in selecting a new superintendent remain uncertain. The board is scheduled to meet on March 6, for a work session, when discussions about moving forward with the leadership transition will begin.
Samantha Kadera is an anchor/reporter at NewsWatch 12. You can reach her at skadera@kdrv.com.