Erika Skaar named principal at Buff Elementary

Jefferson County School District 509J recently announced some administrative job changes that includes a new principal at Buff Elementary School.

Erika Skaar, an educator with the district for 15 years and a 2005 Madras High School graduate, is the new principal at Buff, replacing Billie White, who is the new curriculum director for the district. Longtime curriculum director Melinda Boyle is the new human resources director.

White served as principal at Buff from 2015-2024. Former Director of Curriculum and Instruction Boyle is going back to becoming the district’s human resources director, a role she previously held from 2004 to 2009. Boyle has served as the 509J director of curriculum and instruction for the past 15 years.

Skaar began her teaching career with 509J as a first-grade teacher at Madras Elementary. She then transitioned to Buff Elementary, dedicating 10 years to teaching kindergarten. According to the district, Skaar’s innovative teaching methods and dedication to student success earned her the respect and admiration of both colleagues and families, as well as individual awards.

“I am so excited for this opportunity to continue to serve the families at Buff Elementary,” Skaar said. “The community of Jefferson County has been my home since I was a child, and I am thankful to give back to the community that helped shape me into the person I am today.”

For the past two years, Skaar has worked as an instructional coach at Buff Elementary. In this capacity, she worked closely with White to enhance instructional practices and support teachers’ professional growth. Her leadership was instrumental in driving academic excellence and fostering a collaborative learning environment.

During her time with 509J, Skaar has also served as the school learning coordinator, leading professional development initiatives for her building and other elementary schools in the district. She played a key role in leading grade-level teams during ELA unit planning meetings.

In addition, Skaar has been an AVID co-site team coordinator and a member of the math planning committee, ELA planning committee, and the ELA and Math Curriculum adoption committee. Her extensive experience and dedication to our district make her qualified to lead Buff Elementary into a bright future.