Canby superintendent selected to take helm at Sherwood

The current superintendent of the Canby School District has been named to take the helm of the Sherwood School District.

Aaron Downs was selected as the district’s newest superintendent following a special meeting by the Sherwood school board on Wednesday, May 22.

“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,” school board Chair Abby Hawkins said in a statement. “We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Downs to the Sherwood School District and look forward to working with him in the coming years.”

Downs, who has worked for the Canby School District since 2021, will officially assume his duties on July 1. He replaces Sherwood Superintendent Jeremy Lyon , who has been with the district since 2022.

“I’m honored to be selected as the next superintendent of the Sherwood School District,” Downs said. “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.”

Prior to working in Canby, Downs served as assistant superintendent in the West Linn-Wilsonville School District. In addition, he previously worked as Wilsonville High School’s principal and had been a teacher and coach in that district as well.

Downs holds a bachelor’s degree from George Fox College and received a doctorate of education degree from Lewis & Clark College.