ISD 518 Board Sets Strategic Goals for New Superintendent

The ISD 518 Board of Education convened on September 12, 2023, to establish strategic goals for newly appointed Superintendent Joel Heitkamp. The meeting, which lasted approximately two hours, included input from Barb Dorn, Director of Leadership Development and Executive Search for the Minnesota School Board Association. This work session aimed to guide the transition for Heitkamp and to clarify the board’s expectations for his first year in office.

Dorn emphasized the importance of a unified vision among board members, stating, “It’s important to us that the board goes through this to make sure that all eight of you are aware of what the board wants him to focus on most this coming year.” She noted that having differing expectations could lead to confusion and complications during Heitkamp’s first year, particularly when the board conducts his annual evaluation next spring.

During the session, Dorn introduced a program developed by the Minnesota School Board Association and the Minnesota Association of School Administrators, which many school boards across the state utilize. She explained that the board should set specific, measurable goals for Heitkamp to work towards over the next ten months, given that he officially assumed his role on July 1, 2023. Moreover, according to his contract, Heitkamp will undergo a performance evaluation after 90 days, scheduled for October 1, 2023.

As part of the goal-setting process, board members examined a document outlining various standards across seven categories: governance team, school district finances, human resources, school district operations, student support, teaching and learning, and ethical and inclusive leadership. Each member was asked to identify their top two standards and related elements that should guide Heitkamp’s focus during his tenure.

A strong consensus emerged around the category of communications and community relationships. All board members unanimously selected budget development and maintenance as essential focuses under school district finances. This reflects a clear priority for fiscal responsibility within the district.

Board member Darla Agard suggested that some standards could be postponed for future consideration. “I think some of them we could also say ‘Not this year, but next year,’” she noted, emphasizing the need for clarity on immediate priorities. Fellow board member Matt Widboom added, “I think that’s — especially when talking about some of these things — that’s really an important part of the goal setting,” referencing the necessity for measurable objectives.

After approximately 40 minutes of deliberation, the board identified six key elements for Heitkamp to concentrate on: fiscal responsibility, community engagement, transparent communication, student support, school safety and security, and addressing emotional health and social needs.

Dorn indicated that Board Chairman Adam Blume and Heitkamp would present these proposed goals at the upcoming board meeting on September 19, 2023, with minor adjustments permitted before the session. This approach aims to officially integrate the evaluation process and selected goals into the board’s agenda.

“This was a very thoughtful discussion, and I’m truly struck by the consensus between board members and your superintendent,” Dorn remarked, highlighting the importance of unity in setting a productive agenda. The collaborative atmosphere reflects a promising start for Heitkamp’s administration as he prepares to lead the district into a new phase of development.