Siletz Valley School

Meet Brad Capener
Interim Superintendent, Siletz Valley School

Brad Capener brings 28 years of experience in public education to his role as Interim
Superintendent of Siletz Valley School. Throughout his career, he has served as a classroom
teacher, school and district administrator, superintendent, and educational leader at the regional
and state levels. His work has focused on strengthening schools, supporting educators, and
expanding opportunities for students.

Brad previously served for six years as Superintendent of the Jefferson School District, a small
rural district in Oregon's Willamette Valley. During his tenure, he focused on improving student
achievement, strengthening school culture, expanding student support systems, and building
strong relationships with families and the community. His experience in rural education has
shaped his belief that successful schools are built through trust, collaboration, and a shared
commitment to students.

Much of Brad's career has been dedicated to supporting students who face additional
challenges. In the Salem-Keizer School District, he developed and led programs supporting
students in the Migrant Education Program, students learning English as another language, and
refugee students and families. At the Oregon Department of Education, he provided leadership
and technical assistance to school districts in developing English learner programs and
administering federal education programs supporting students experiencing economic
disadvantage.

Most recently, Brad helped develop and served as the founding principal of the Southern
Oregon Career Center, a regional career school providing students from multiple school districts
with access to career and technical education. This work reflected his commitment to expanding
opportunities for young people to explore career pathways, develop practical skills, and prepare
for life after high school. He believes that whether students pursue college, technical training, or
employment, schools have a responsibility to help them discover their strengths and prepare for
a successful future.

Outside of his professional life, Brad is a husband, father, and farmer. He and his wife have
been married for 34 years and have three grown children. They live on a small farm in Southern
Oregon, where they grow vegetables and operate a pumpkin patch. Brad enjoys working the
land, growing things, and sharing the farm with families in the community.
As he begins his work with Siletz Valley School, Brad looks forward to getting to know the
students, staff, families, and community. He is eager to learn about the school's traditions,
celebrate its strengths, and listen to the hopes and aspirations families have for their children.

Brad believes that effective school leadership begins with listening, building relationships, and
supporting the people who work directly with students. He is grateful for the opportunity to serve
the Siletz Valley School community and looks forward to working together to ensure every
student has the support, encouragement, and opportunities they need to succeed.