The Sherwood School District is pleased to announce and welcome Dr. Aaron Downs as the finalist selected to become the district’s new superintendent, effective July 1, 2024 following the retirement of current Superintendent Dr. Jeremy Lyon. Dr. Downs currently serves as Superintendent of the Canby School District.
Prior to his time with the Canby School District, Dr. Downs served as Assistant Superintendent in the West Linn-Wilsonville School District. He was also previously the Principal of Wilsonville High School and a teacher and coach at West Linn High School. He received his Bachelor’s Degree from George Fox College and his Doctorate of Education from Lewis and Clark College.
When asked about his new role, Dr. Downs shared, “I’m honored to be selected as the next Superintendent of the Sherwood School District. Thank you to the school board for their trust and support. I’m looking forward to learning the community, engaging with staff, and partnering with Dr. Lyon for a smooth transition into this exceptional district.”
Following an extensive search process that began in March 2024, the Board of Directors formally approved Dr. Downs’s hire at a special meeting held on May 22, 2024. Noted Board Chair Abby Hawkins, “After a rigorous search process which included several qualified applicants, and with a focus on the priorities identified by our community in their feedback, the Board feels very strongly that Dr. Downs is the right candidate to lead our district in our continued focus on student success. We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Downs to the Sherwood School District and look forward to working with him in the coming years.”