The Oregon City School District board on July 14 swore in newly elected member Michael Petula and elected Katie Wilson as board chair and Michael Controlla as vice chair for the 2025–26 year.

At the start of the meeting, newly elected board member Michael Petula repeated the oath of office. The board then opened nominations for chair. Director Blackwell nominated Katie Wilson; after discussion from several board members about leadership qualities — including transparency, fairness, and the ability to run efficient meetings — the board voted and the motion carried.

Board members discussed criteria for board leadership at length. Michelle (board member) outlined traits she wants in a chair: integrity, transparency, ability to mediate conflict, avoidance of micromanagement, promotion of unity, and respect for the public trust. Other members praised Wilson’s leadership during the previous year, including work on a successful bond campaign.

The board then nominated and elected a vice chair. Director (nomination) put forward Michael Controlla for vice chair; another nomination for Michelle Stroh was offered and she later declined to press the nomination. Board members spoke in support of Controlla’s service and leadership. The roll call for the vice chair nomination recorded “Aye” votes and the motion carried.

Miss Beck (board clerk) administered roll calls and assisted with the nomination process. Chair Wilson thanked the board after her election and the board moved on to the superintendent’s report and other agenda items.