North Wasco County School District 21 has hired Dr. Lauren Merklin as the new Director of Teaching, Learning and Assessment.  Merklin, who holds both a masters and doctorate degree in Educational Leadership and Administration brings an extensive background in leadership, professional development, and school strategy to the role.  Since 2015, Merklin has been a consultant, contracting with schools across the nation, focusing on strategic development, vision planning, and the development of education models to facilitate student success.  Merklin says she considers herself a “data-informed strategist.”  As Director of Teaching, Learning and Assessment, Merklin will be tasked with the development, implementation, and evaluation of D21’s K-12 curriculum, staff development and assessment, school improvement initiatives, and federal grants oversight.