Terry Kobbermann, Alexandria, Minn.
I am a grandmother of five grandchildren who live in the Sartell-St. Stephen School District. I am also a retired educator who had the privilege of having Joe Hill as my assistant principal and principal when we both worked at Discovery Middle School in Alexandria.
I am sending a partial copy of a letter I sent to him when I heard he was hired as the superintendent of schools in the district where my grandchildren live.
Dear Joe,
Congratulations on your selection as the new superintendent of the Sartell-St. Stephen School District. I was following the selection process because both my daughters live in Sartell, and my grandson attends Pine Meadow Elementary School. Needless to say, I was thrilled when I heard you accepted the position. The school district is so fortunate to have you in the key leadership position.
I secretly thought of writing the school board a letter endorsing you. I was going to tell them my grandchildren needed you to be the superintendent of their school district because no one else could bring the enthusiasm, the love of children, the respect of staff and the dedication to excellence that you would bring to the job. I refrained from doing so because I knew you didn’t need my endorsement . It’ s so obvious to all who visit with you that you are an outstanding educator and the best of the best.
I feel as if our lives were destined to retain a connection, and now that you are in Sartell, I know I was right. I am thrilled for my grandchildren and for all of the children whose lives will be affected in a positive way by your presence. The teachers, administrators and support staff are also going to reap the benefits of your leadership. How exciting!
I recentlly learned HIll has resigned because the school board and he did not share the same vision about the direction the school district should be following. Now some other school district will be the beneficiary of his vision, and it will not be my grandchildren or their classmates. I am selfishly very sad.
