Oregon schools: James Fritz hired as new sup’t

Dr. James Fritz will become Superintendent of Oregon City Schools on Sept. 28, joining the district as Associate Superintendent on Aug. 1.
He replaces Hal Gregory, who will become Assistant Superintendent of Programs and Personnel for North Point Educational Service Center, beginning his new duties Sept. 30.
The Oregon school board approved the hiring of Dr. Fritz last week.
Dr. Fritz’s contract will run for four years beginning Aug. 1. His salary will be $155,000 as associate superintendent. Upon becoming superintendent on Sept. 28, his salary will be $160,000.
“When this board developed a new, measurable strategic plan more than one year ago, it was our goal – knowing that the district would be undergoing multiple changes in senior leadership in the immediate future – to create a seamless transition for our key positions, to continue the positive momentum of Oregon City Schools,” said Oregon board president Carol Molnar. “We are thrilled to attract a proven professional like Dr. Fritz to continue the growth of Oregon City Schools and very proud of the performance of Mr. Gregory which has greatly benefited our community.”
Dr. Fritz joins the Oregon district after directing the Anthony Wayne School District for the past 14 years as its superintendent.
“I believe in the power of education to transform lives,” Dr. Fritz said. “The vision of our schools is one where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. Together, we can create a learning environment that fosters both personal and academic excellence. “I look forward to working with all of our stakeholders to continue the positive academic progress of our students and the legacy of Oregon City Schools.”
Gregory has served as superintendent of the Oregon district since March of 2015. He came to the district in 2003 as Director of Student Services. He was named assistant superintendent in 2008.
“It has been an honor for me to have served this great district,” Gregory said. “I’m proud of the accomplishments we’ve enjoyed, thanks to our parents, students, teachers, support staff, the board of education, and this amazing community. I am also excited that the board of education has chosen a proven leader like Dr. Fritz. We will work closely together on this transition, and I will continue to assist the district whenever asked. Once an Eagle, always an Eagle.”
When the school board was conducting its search for an associate superintendent, it was approached by the North Point Educational Service Center, regarding potentially hiring Gregory before the expiration of his contract with Oregon schools.
“It was our intention as the board of education to hire the associate superintendent to spend the upcoming school year working with Mr. Gregory to ensure a smooth transition to the superintendent’s position upon Mr. Gregory’s retirement,” Molnar said. “In what was a very sensible scenario, all the parties worked seamlessly together on an expedited transition of experienced leaders.”
Incoming North Point Educational Service Center Superintendent, Andrea Smith, said: “We are very happy to add Mr. Gregory to our team. His experience as a superintendent will be beneficial to me personally, and his experience in special education will help the school districts we serve.”