Coos Bay, Oregon — In recognition of her outstanding leadership and transformative impact on student learning, Kara Davidson, principal of Eastside School in Coos Bay, has been named the 2025 Oregon Elementary Principal of the Year. The award, given annually by the Coalition of Oregon School Administrators (COSA) and the Oregon Elementary School Principals Association (OESPA), highlights exemplary elementary school leadership across the state.

Davidson, who began her education career as an elementary teacher in Coos Bay, quickly established herself as an innovative instructional leader, first as assistant principal and then as principal at Eastside School. Her strategic implementation of a district-wide Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) significantly elevated student achievement, particularly in literacy and math.

Under Davidson’s direction, Eastside School became a beacon for the Science of Reading, dramatically improving student reading proficiency. Her team’s work reduced kindergarten reading deficiencies from 78% at the start of the school year to only 19% by year-end. This remarkable achievement earned statewide recognition and was featured prominently in the Oregon Department of Education’s Science of Reading video series.

Davidson has also been pivotal in fostering a culture of social-emotional learning, employing programs like Character Strong to enhance student resilience, empathy, and behavior management. Her approach is not only academic but deeply relational, strengthening community ties and supporting holistic student growth.

"[Davidson] embodies the very best of educational leadership," said Dr. Krista Parent, COSA Executive Director. "Her visionary guidance, unwavering dedication to her students, and exceptional contributions to educational practices have profoundly impacted her community and beyond."
Davidson will be formally honored at the COSA Annual Conference in Seaside, Oregon, this June, where educational leaders statewide will celebrate her extraordinary accomplishments.