FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more information, contact: Liam Dawson, Superintendent, 507-375-5974
“Minnesota School Boards Help Minnesota Kids Rise”
September is School Board Recognition Month
St. James, MN — September is Minnesota School Board Recognition Month. This year’s theme, “Minnesota School Boards Help Minnesota Kids Rise,” helps celebrate the dedicated individuals who serve St. James Public Schools by ensuring every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.
The members of the St. James School Board spend countless hours providing thoughtful leadership and governance for our local public schools. They are responsible for setting the vision and priorities that support student success, approving responsible budgets, ensuring accountability, advocating for public education, and making decisions that affect the future of every student in our district.
Our locally elected school board oversees a budget of $22.5 million, serves 1,080 students, supports employees, and provides stewardship for 3 school buildings. While these numbers are significant, the true measure of their work is reflected in the opportunities they help create for students every day.
School board members are entrusted with making difficult decisions that balance educational excellence, fiscal responsibility, and the evolving needs of students and families. They carefully consider complex issues, listen to community voices, and work collaboratively to ensure every decision keeps students at the center.
This September, I encourage everyone in our community to join us in thanking the members of the St. James School Board for their dedication, leadership, and service. Their commitment helps open doors, expand opportunities, and create brighter futures for every student they serve.
We proudly recognize the members of the St. James School Board and thank them for their years of service:
Rich Spitzner - 12 Years
Mike Tonsager - 12 Years
Scott Runge - 10 Years
Nancy Vite - 4 Years
Karen Menssen - 2 Years
Eugene Hildebrandt - 2 Years
To learn more about the work of the St. James Public Schools ISD#840 School Board, visit
Respectfully,
Liam Dawson, Superintendent
St. James Public Schools