Debbie Simons

Debbie Simons joined Northwest Regional ESD as the Chief Human Resources Officer in the fall of 2021. In this role, she oversees personnel processes, including hiring, labor relations, benefits programs, substitute management and wellness. In addition to doing this work for the ESD, Debbie also advises human resources staff at the 20 component school districts in our region on an as needed basis.

Debbie most recently worked as the assistant superintendent of teaching and learning at Medford School District in southern Oregon. She also worked as the director of human resources at Medford and the Three Rivers School District. Other previous positions include principal at Lincoln Savage Middle School and Evergreen Elementary School.

Debbie served on the Oregon School Personnel Association (OSPA) board for eight years, including as president and has taught classes for human resources professionals.

She began her educational career during her senior year of high school when she worked halftime in Mrs. Peacore’s second grade classroom. She received her undergraduate degree from Western Oregon State College (now Western Oregon University). She earned her master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Southern Oregon University and administrative license through Portland State University.