Superintendent
Ryan Noss
Superintendent Noss leads Corvallis School District 509J, guiding the district through strategic planning, budget challenges, and the ongoing commitment to equitable education for every student.
About CSD 509J
District information, leadership, strategic vision, and commitment to equity
Our District
Serving the Corvallis community since 1855
Corvallis School District 509J is a public school district in Benton County, Oregon, serving the city of Corvallis and surrounding areas. Home to Oregon State University, Corvallis is a vibrant, educated community that values public education as the foundation for a thriving future. The district operates 13 schools spanning elementary, middle, and high school levels, including charter and alternative programs.
With students and families speaking 74 languages, CSD 509J reflects the rich diversity of its community. The district is committed to providing an excellent, equitable education for every learner regardless of background, identity, or circumstance.
Leadership
Superintendent and School Board
School Board
Chair
Sami Al-AbdRabbuh
Board Chair, providing governance leadership for the district and presiding over board meetings.
Vice Chair
Sarah Finger McDonald
Board Vice Chair, supporting governance and stepping in when the Chair is unavailable.
Member
Luhui Whitebear
Board member advocating for equity, culturally responsive education, and indigenous community engagement.
Member
Ricky Malone
Board member focused on student success, community partnerships, and fiscal responsibility.
Member
Matt Boroski
Board member committed to transparent governance and strong educational outcomes.
Member
Megan Shumway
Board member supporting families, staff well-being, and inclusive school communities.
Member
Lisa Scherf
Board member dedicated to sustainable practices, environmental education, and community engagement.
Strategic Path Forward
Four pillars guiding CSD 509J toward equitable excellence
Goal 1
Excellent Learning Experience
Ensure every student experiences an excellent, equitable education through the 5 Dimensions of Teaching and Learning Framework, emphasizing purpose, student engagement, curriculum, pedagogy, and assessment.
Goal 2
Equitable Systems
Build and sustain equitable systems that support the success of every student, particularly those who have been historically underserved by public education, closing opportunity gaps across the district.
Goal 3
Relevant & Engaging Learning
Provide culturally relevant, real-world learning experiences that build trust, inclusivity, and engagement, connecting classroom instruction to student lives and the broader community.
Goal 4
Healthy Communities
Foster healthy school communities through social-emotional learning, environmental stewardship, and strong partnerships with families, organizations, and community stakeholders.
Commitment to Equity
Every student deserves access to an excellent education
Corvallis School District 509J is committed to eliminating systemic barriers and creating inclusive environments where every student can thrive. The district actively works to identify and address disparities in access, opportunity, and outcomes, centering the experiences of students and families who have been historically marginalized.
The district provides multilingual services to families speaking 74 languages, ensuring language is not a barrier to engagement. Through targeted programs, culturally responsive teaching, and community partnerships, CSD 509J strives to create schools where every child sees themselves reflected and supported.
Budget & Finance
Navigating fiscal challenges while prioritizing students
CSD 509J operates with a $182.6 million annual budget, funding instruction, student services, transportation, facilities, and operations across 13 schools. Like many Oregon districts, Corvallis faces significant fiscal headwinds that require careful planning and community engagement.
Enrollment Decline
District enrollment has declined by approximately 1,200 students since 2016, reducing per-pupil funding from the state and placing increasing pressure on the operating budget.
State Revenue Impact
Oregon faces an estimated $888 million revenue shortfall from federal tax policy changes, which may further reduce state funding for public schools in coming bienniums.
The district has cut 17 teaching positions for the 2025-26 school year and continues to evaluate operational efficiencies while protecting core instructional programs. The budget committee welcomes community input as it plans for the future.
Facilities & Consolidation
Planning for the future of CSD 509J schools
2026-27 School Consolidation
In November 2025, the School Board voted 6-1 to close Cheldelin Middle School and Letitia Carson Elementary as part of a consolidation plan to address declining enrollment and budget constraints. Students and staff will be transitioned to other district schools for the 2026-27 school year.
The district is working closely with affected families, staff, and communities to ensure a smooth transition. Consolidation planning includes transportation adjustments, boundary revisions, staffing realignment, and facilities repurposing. Community forums and board work sessions continue throughout the planning process.