Midland superintendent steps down

     The construction progress at Midland continues in spite of the challenges posed by the weather. The wrestling practice/safe room area will be completed soon and the Industrial Arts shop will be completed by the end of January. Once the shop area is complete we will move the current shop into the new area so that the demolition work in the old shop can begin in order to make room for a new band room.

     The wrestling practice room will be a great addition for our athletic and P.E. programs. This room will also take pressure off the Paul Petersen Center. The classroom area is taking shape as steel beams are being put in place and masonry walls are going up. The new gym now has windows and skylights. The locker rooms have the walls up and the plumbing and electrical work is roughed in at this time. I am hopeful that our projected completion date of November is possible. It will take a lot of work and coordination to reach that goal. Again, I ask for your patience as we make adjustments to deal with the challenges of construction.

     On another note, I have resigned from my position at Midland in order to retire. I will be on the job until June 30, 2017. The decision to retire was not an easy one for Vicki (my wife) and me to make. We feel it is the right time for us. I have no real plans for the future, but am keeping my options open. We have purchased a home in Guttenberg, Iowa, and that will be our landing spot.

     I am stepping down at this time because it is right for me, and I also believe Midland is in a great place for a new superintendent to lead the district into the future. We have a solid leadership team in place, and our faculty and staff are dedicated professionals who want what is best for all of their students. The educational program that has been developed is well suited to meet the learning demands of our students well into the future.

     The support of the community for the district is outstanding, as was seen by the passage of the bond issue, the role of the booster clubs, PATS, and the Post Prom committee. Many people volunteer their time to make Midland a good school district.

     Financially the school is in as good of shape as it has been for many years. Although spending is something that will always have to be watched, we are able to provide quality programming due to the financial status. This has been fueled by an enrollment trend that has stabilized and even seen a bit of growth in resident students and fewer open-enrolled-out students.

     The facilities that Midland will have will be as good as any around. The addition and remodeling at Oxford Junction has been great, and the work being done at Wyoming is very impressive. Midland will be serving the communities for generations to come. I am very proud of what has been accomplished

     A lot of work remains to be done and I will be dedicated to the district through June and will be available to help in any way beyond.

     On a personal note, my eight years at Midland have been very rewarding. I was provided an opportunity by the board to lead the district at a very interesting time. I have enjoyed the relationships I have developed with the staff, students, and board and community members. Our five grandchildren were all born while I was at Midland. Oh, and the Giants won the World Series three times. It is time for me to move on. I wish the Midland School District nothing but the best!