Kitzhaber lauds Camas resident’s service

After helping almost 20,000 early learners, Jada Rupley will get to focus on one in particular.

The Camas resident is retiring — again — on Aug. 15 after nearly two years as director of Oregon’s Early Learning System.

Rupley said it was timed around the arrival of her first grandchild.

In a letter to her staff, she said her family is looking forward to welcoming “our own early learner into the world.”

Rupley was named Oregon’s first Early Learning System Director in September 2012. That was following her first retirement, after 33 years with Educational Service District 112.

She retired as associate superintendent, only to accept an offer from Oregon Gov. John Kitzhaber.

“I promised Gov. Kitzhaber I would serve for two years,” Rupley said.

In a news release, Kitzhaber thanked Rupley for her contributions to the youngest Oregonians.

“Under Jada’s leadership, we have overhauled our approach to early learning in Oregon,” Kitzhaber said.

“She has built the foundation that will help move this work forward for our children, for parents, and for educators. I thank her for doing the work she set out to do and wish her well in her retirement.”

Rupley’s Aug. 15 departure date isn’t firm. It might be quicker if her daughter’s baby arrives sooner.

“That’s what’s wonderful about a boss who’s a physician,” she said, referring to Kitzhaber.

“He totally gets that.”

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