Mike Richie, District Administrator
December, 2022 - Spirit Article
Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates Present the TRSD Leadership Profile Report to the School Board
On October 24th, Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates (HYA) presented a Leadership Profile Report to the TRSD School Board. This report presents the findings of the Leadership Profile Assessment conducted by HYA in early fall for the new superintendent. The entire report can be found on the school district website.
HYA associate, Dr. Pat Neudecker, conducted either individual interviews or focus group settings, both in person and also on Zoom. A total of 121 people participated in the interviews or focus groups. The interviews and focus group meetings were structured to gather input to assist the Board in determining the primary characteristics desired in the new superintendent. Additionally, the stakeholder interviews and focus groups collected information regarding the strengths of the district and some of the challenges that it will be facing in the coming years.
All groups noted that the community is a wonderful area in which to live and that extensive support is provided to the school district from parents and community members. The proximity to neighboring Appleton and Stevens Point enhances the Amherst lifestyle, and families are attracted to the area because of the schools and the community. The community is described as friendly, welcoming, close-knit, supportive and an overall great place to live and raise a family. Families and stakeholders in the Tomorrow River School District value their schools.
An active scholarship committee provides financial support for many students pursuing post-high school options. School pride is evident as is the financial support necessary for enhancing the school district and the children of Amherst. An appreciation for staff was mentioned in all groups. The staff is described as loyal, motivated, caring, willing to go “above and beyond” to help students, and highly dedicated. Students spoke of their teachers as caring individuals who help them. Many parents stated the reason they moved to the area was the school district, its reputation, and the staff. An appreciation for a charter school option and for the school-based mental-emotional services and support were also mentioned as strengths. The district’s commitment to academics, the arts and athletics is evident and viewed as a strength. The district “campus” was described as an asset. The community views the campus as the center of the community.
The challenges that were mentioned include the following: In the area of instructional improvement, while the TRSD offers many options for students, stakeholders called for a focus on a deeper understanding of what graduates will need to be successful, especially outside of Amherst. They added that long-term instructional goals and outcomes for students need focus and clarity. Curriculum alignment, staff development, and consistent expectations were noted as areas in need of attention. The comments are not to be viewed as a criticism of current curriculum and instruction leadership, but rather additional time for curriculum development and staff development was described as necessary.
Technology needs of the district for instruction, as well as district operations, also need additional support. Technology policies and plans should be developed to ensure efficient, effective and equitable use of technology. In addition, the need for a full-time superintendent was echoed across most groups.
State funding, an unknown financial future, increasing demands and rising costs were also mentioned as future challenges. This is not unique to Amherst, but a concern of most school districts. Staff compensation, benefits, technology costs, rising prices, etc. were noted as concerns. Amherst, like many districts, will have to be creative in doing more with less.
Please join us for a community and parent meet and greet of our superintendent finalists on the following dates, December 5, 6 and 7 in the District Board Room from 6-7 p.m. There will be a new finalist each evening. Your feedback will be welcomed!