The Pendleton School District has extended an offer of employment to Mr. Mike Somnis to be the new Assistant Principal/Athletic Director at Pendleton High School.  The Board of Directors will take official action at its May 11 regular board meeting.  PHS Principal Melissa Sandven stated, “Mike’s experience as a school leader, athletic director and coach will complement our administrative team and allow us to continue to support and lead in the best interests of our students and school community.”

Mr. Somnis has spent the last three years as the K-12 Principal for Sherman County Schools.  Prior to that, Mr. Somnis served as the Assistant Principal/Athletic Director at The Dalles High School for four years.  He started his teaching career at Kofa High School in Yuma, AZ teaching high school adaptive PE.  Over the course of his career, he has taught Special Education, PE, Health, Careers, and Personal Finance.

Throughout his career, Mr. Somnis has coached a number of sports at both the junior high and high school levels.  He has served as head coach at the varsity level for Football and Basketball.  Mr. Somnis is well versed in high-quality instructional practices and has worked extensively with the Danielson teacher evaluation model, which is aligned to the Pendleton model.  His colleagues and supervisors praise Mr. Somnis for his integrity, listening skills, and ability to build high-quality relationships with students, staff, and patrons.

Mr. Somnis earned his Bachelor of Science degree in 2003 from Eastern Oregon University with a major in PE and Health.  He completed a Master’s in Education in 2008, majoring in Special Education from Grand Canyon University.

Somnis replaces Troy Jerome, who recently accepted the Superintendent position for the Pilot Rock School District.  We are fortunate to find someone of Mr. Somnis’ high character and diverse qualifications to join our team.  Mr. Somnis will officially begin his duties in Pendleton on July 1, 2020.