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Two Medford principals earn top honors from state administrator groups Linda White, left, and Kelly Soter Tuesday Apr 25, 2017 at 11:17 AM Apr 25, 2017 at 4:46 PM Local report Two Medford principals have been named best in their fields in the state in 2017 by education administrators groups. McLoughlin Middle School Principal Linda White was named Oregon Middle School Principal of the Year 2017 by the Confederation of Oregon School Administrators and Oregon Association of Secondary School Administrators. Jackson Elementary School Principal Kelly Soter has been named Oregon Elementary Principal of the Year 2017 by COSA and the Oregon Elementary School Principals Association. COSA officials say it is rare that two principals from the same district receive these top honors; it has happened only one other time in the organization’s four-decade history. Under White’s leadership at McLoughlin, more students are meeting or exceeding state standards in all subject areas and more students are regularly attending school. “Linda’s innovative and collaborative leadership has created a culture of inclusivity, high expectations and achievement at McLoughlin Middle School," said Clint Raever, OASSA president in a media release. "The work of Linda, and her staff, have created programs and systems to close the achievement gap and insure that all students have the support they need to succeed. Linda’s infectious energy inspires her staff to take risks and continually improve their practice.” "Linda White understands what it takes, not just to improve student achievement, but to build community and inspire staff to achieve," said Michelle Zundel, the Medford district's chief academic officer. "She is outrageously positive and creative in her demeanor." White is in her fourth year at McLoughlin Middle School, seventh as an administrator with the Medford School District, and previously taught math in the Medford School District. Ginger Redlinger, OESPA president, said in the release that Soter's commitment to building a community of learners sets her apart. “She’s added a preschool program, inspired teachers and parents to work together to raise achievement for all, and also added a health care center," Redlinger said. "Kelly inspired community-wide positivity lifting up the entire community.” Soter is in her sixth year at Jackson Elementary. Zundel described her as "a well-respected leader whose innovative strategies get results for students." COSA principals of the year must exhibit personal excellence, model professional growth, communicate effectively, and interact with others professionally and tactfully. Principals chosen for this top honor also demonstrate collaborative leadership, foster community and ensure high levels of the curriculum, instruction and assessment. White and Soter will be honored at the annual COSA conference in June in Seaside. In addition, Soter will compete for National Elementary School Principal of the Year.