At the end of this school year, Chinook High School athletic director Paula Molyneaux retired from the position. She was a package deal, as her husband and principal Matt also stepped down at the end of last school year. The Sugarbeeters will have new leadership and those duties will be filled by one person.
Brian Rayburn, who last served as the superintendent for the Lima School District No. 12, has been the new principal and athletic/activities director, starting at the beginning of July.
With the sports element coming into play, Rayburn was asked about the programs he is inheriting and will oversee. He gave praise to his predecessors and said everything is lined up for a good fall sports season in Chinook.
“I’m stepping into some big shoes,” Rayburn said. “But I have been able to work with the coaches; Mike Jones for football, (new coach) Tess Langford for volleyball, and Lesley Zellmer for cross country.”
“They are excited to get going,” Rayburn continued. “They’ve got a full staff of assistant coaches and volunteers to help them.”
“We’ve got a big meeting coming up next week on (August) 13th with the parents to discuss fall sports expectations,” Rayburn said. “(I’m) just looking forward to getting my hands in there with them and helping out where I can.”
Rayburn also took the time to introduce himself to the New Media Broadcasters listening area demographic. After coming in from Lima where he was not only the athletic director, but also superintendent, bus driver, and snowplow operator, he said what a warm reception he’s been getting in his first month on the job and how that has made the outlook on his future so bright.
“I know that the community is very supportive of their school and their sports team and other activities,” Rayburn said. “(I’m) proud to say that the people I’ve met are genuine and share with me their experiences of living and working in this community and how that translates into their support for the school and for the activities and sports programs.”
“I’m excited to work here and bring the knowledge and experience I have to the program and also to honor and support those traditions that are part of the Sugarbeeters community.”
