Sedona-Oak Creek School District’s new director of student services, Mark Cunningham, came into Sedona expecting one task and being assigned another, yet his enthusiasm for working here remains undimmed.

An Arizona native and former teacher and administrator — most recently as principal at Yuma’s James B. Rolle Elementary — Cunningham applied for the position of West Sedona School principal during April’s candidate search. Though that position ultimately went to then-co-principal Scott Keller, the interview process convinced Cunningham that he wanted to pursue a different employment opportunity in the district.

“I enjoyed the opportunity to interview at WSS and was impressed with the thorough screening and interview process,” Cunningham stated. “When I saw the director of educational services position was open, I was excited and eager to apply. I have liked Sedona since I was a kid and as an administrator I am impressed with the overall progress of its schools to educate and care for children.

Through his secretary, SOCSD Superintendent David Lykins stated Cunningham will be paid $55,000 as director of student services with an additional $11,000 in benefits.

“I want to be part of the district vision and help provide quality services to our kids,” Cunningham said.

As a June 24 through 26 email interaction between Cunningham and Matthew Oskowis — the parent of an autistic student at WSS — reveals, Cunningham began his tenure in the district as director of educational services, overseeing special education. Prior to Cunningham, Keller had fulfilled this role for the district.

“I am the new director of educational services for the district,” Cunningham stated in an introductory letter to Oskowis.

To read the full story, see the Friday, July 24, edition of the Sedona Red Rock News.