Months after the resignation of Northfield’s previous principal, two candidates have emerged who are qualified and willing to take on the epic task of growing the Stapleton area high school. “The search has been exhausting,” said acting DPS Superintendent Susana Cordova. “Candidates have learned what they most likely would be walking into, and therefore, have politely passed on the opportunity. Think of it in terms of a Venn diagram. There is a subset of people who are qualified to be the principal, and that set is fairly large in number. Then, there is a subset of people who are willing to take the job, which is a smaller number, mostly comprised of illegal immigrants looking for work. Then, when you take the intersection of those two, qualified and willing candidates, we are looking at an extremely small number. In fact, really just these two finalists.”
The two finalists recently spoke at a community forum at the high school, where 75 attendees were able to listen to their philosophies and ask some questions. “Honestly, I was just happy there are two people willing to take this job,” said forum attendee Leslie Hodan. “They were so brave, speaking passionately about their experiences and how they would actually accept the position. I think they were sincere.” Rob Williams agreed. “They both seem very qualified, intelligent, and willing to work here,” said Williams. “Can we hire them both? I mean, why not have a fall back in case one leaves immediately? I’m definitely going to see what needs to be done to make that happen.” A lot has been made regarding the challenges in developing the Northfield High School, both in getting support and students from the Stapleton community, as well as the challenge of dealing with Stapleton parents. “Can you imagine the politics that will ultimately occur for the sports teams?” asked resident Jim Schmit. “That alone will be crazy. Then, if a student is getting bad grades, will it be the teacher’s fault? I just think it is going to be a really demanding job.”
The two finalists, Amy Bringedahl and Stacy Parrish, both bring a lot of experience as well as willingness to take the job. “I thought they both did a great job,” said Williams. “They really want to take the job. That’s what impressed me most.” Hodan agrees. “From what they said, it seems they both have plans for what they would do if they were hired. That tells me they have prepared and care about becoming the principal here. That says a lot. I mean, not a lot of people want to embark on this journey.” The candidates interviewed with acting Superintendent Cordova last Thursday, and the final announcement should be made soon. There will be a Principal at Northfield High School.
*Update: Amy Bringedahl will be the Principal of Northfield High School for the 2016-17 school year. Best of success to Amy in her years to come.
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