Mark Hauck, chair
Tracey Fiereck, vice chair
Sauk Rapids-Rice School Board
Humble, appreciative, supportive, hardworking and smart. These are only a few of the words used to describe the Minnesota Association of School Administrators’ 2016 Superintendent of the Year, Dr. Daniel Bittman. Bittman is in his sixth year as the superintendent for Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools. His tenure in SRR has not always been an easy road. SRR for many years was one of the lowest-funded schools in the state. Dedicated staff, supportive families and a strong team helped sustain educational programming through those lean years. Today, we are back on the map and making amazing strides together. Under Bittman’s leadership, the SRR team has re-focused on curriculum, established a foundation, improved test scores and secured significant funding from outside sources. Since the community passed an operating referendum in 2012, SRR has been able to provide all-day every-day kindergarten prior to receiving funding from the state, free breakfast, reduced class sizes, reduced athletic fees, reduced supply lists, provided sixth-grade after-school athletics and implemented our Increased Access and Opportunity through Technology Initiative. The initiative has allowed us to provide each student with an electronic device to enhance their learning.
Bittman will say this is the work of an amazing leadership team and staff and the SRR School Board would concur. Regardless, a leadership team and staff need someone to lead, an example to follow and the encouragement to succeed. Bittman’s focus, sheer determination and commitment to the kids of SRR makes us all better together. On behalf of the Sauk Rapids-Rice School Board we congratulate you, Dr. Bittman on receiving this prestigious award. We are proud to serve with you. Lastly, I would invite SRR and area community members to congratulate Bittman, but don’t be surprised by his humble response.