Culver School District Superintendent to resign after numerous complaints prompted investigation
Claire Elmer
(Update: adding video)
CULVER, Ore. (KTVZ) — Culver School District Superintendent Stefanie Garber is stepping down from her position at the end of the current term. Her resignation follows a months-long investigation by a third party into her conduct during her tenure.
District officials confirmed the investigation was launched following numerous complaints. The school board has declined to release specific details regarding the probe, citing personnel confidentiality and advice from legal counsel.
School board Chair Scott Leeper addressed the departure in an email, noting that the district maintains a policy against discussing personnel issues. “The Culver School District does not discuss confidential matters… the board can confirm that Superintendent Garber has announced her retirement,” Leeper said. Garber has served as the leader of the district for more than 20 years.
The Culver Education Association, which represents district teachers and staff, stated that the resignation follows serious concerns regarding Garber’s leadership. In a released statement, the association said it has “consistently advocated for transparency, accountability and a safe, respectful and professional working and learning environment.” Union leadership described the change as an opportunity for the district to rebuild trust.
Multiple current and former employees told KTVZ News they have raised concerns about district culture and leadership practices over several years. These individuals requested anonymity due to concerns about potential retaliation. The specific findings of the third-party investigation remain sealed, though public records requests for the documents have been submitted.
Garber responded to the allegations and her departure through an email statement. “The time has come to pass the baton to a new leader,” Garber said. She also expressed that she is deeply grateful for her experiences during her tenure with the district.
The school board is expected to begin the search for a new superintendent in the coming months. Further details regarding the recruitment process have not yet been released.
Statement from Stefanie Garber:
After 25 years of serving the CSD community, I will be retiring/resigning effective June 30, 2026. It has truly been an incredible journey, and the time has come to pass the baton to a new leader.
I am deeply grateful for the relationships, memories, and experiences I have been blessed to share with the world’s best children, supportive families, and truly remarkable staff. The heart of CSD lies in its people, and I will forever cherish being part of such a special community.
Statement from the Culver Education Association:
The Culver Education Association acknowledges the resignation of Superintendent Garber, which follows a months-long, independent, 3rd party investigation, initiated by the Culver School Board, into serious concerns regarding district leadership.
While personnel matters necessarily limit what can be shared publicly, it is important for our community to understand that this resignation did not occur in isolation. It comes after a significant period of review and reflection.
CEA’s primary responsibility is, and has always been, the well-being of the staff and students we serve. Throughout this process, we have consistently advocated for transparency, accountability, and a safe, respectful, and professional working and learning environment.
We view this leadership transition as an opportunity to move forward in a positive direction. We are hopeful that new leadership will help strengthen trust, improve morale, and foster a collaborative culture that best serves students and staff.
CEA looks forward to working with the Board and community to ensure that future leadership reflects these values and helps restore confidence in our district.
Statement from the Culver School Board – Scott Leeper, Board Chair
The Culver School District does not discuss confidential personnel matters or investigations conducted at the direction of the District’s legal counsel. The Board can confirm that Superintendent Stefanie Garber has announced her retirement and submitted a resignation effective at the end of the school year.
The Board will focus its efforts in the coming months on working with the Culver community and district staff to recruit the District’s next superintendent. We look forward to the district’s next chapter.