Sequim Gazette staff

Even for a relatively small school district, says superintendent Bill Bentley, Sequim has plenty riding on technology.

 

Sequim’s top administrator estimates Sequim’s five schools have more than 1,000 computer stations among them, with just one technician and some part-time help from an Educational Service District for assistance.

 

That, according to Bentley, is why Patra Boots — principal at Helen Haller Elementary School and director of technology for the district — is being shifted from her position to focus on the district’s technology, vocational and assessment programs.

 

That opens up the principal position at Helen Haller; closing date for the job is April 27.

 

“For many years we’ve had minimal staffing in those areas,” Bentley said. “In the areas of technology and assessments, demands … are continually expanding. (Patra) has been the one on the ground floor in the district specifically with technology.”

 

Boots came to the Sequim School District in 1996 as assistant principal of Sequim High School. In 2000, she became director of instruction and technology and in 2005 was named principal at Sequim Community School.

 

 In 2010, Boots saw her dual role with the district shift. After heading up the district’s curriculum and technology, she took over at Helen Haller while retaining her technology duties as then Haller principal Vince Riccobene took over as director of curriculum.

 

As for Haller’s next leader, Bentley said, “First, we want to make sure we bring in someone who is fully committed and dedicated (to the idea) that student performance is the most important aspect for the job.

 

“Being a good team member working well with others is always an important consideration.”

 

Bentley said the district is looking for someone who has had “positive experience” in the elementary field.

 

The position pays between $86,000-$96,000, according to the job listing on the Sequim School District website.