VIDEO: Quist takes 'final exam'

• Terry Quist

Terry Quist visited with phy-ed teacher Brenda Hintermeister (left) and kindergarten teacher Jayne Sahli at an open house Wednesday that celebrated Quist’s career and retirement. Staff, teachers and board members described Quist as a caring, humble leader who built collaborative partnerships in getting things done. (Photo by Al Edenloff)

Talk about it

Terry Quist will step down as superintendent of Alexandria School District 206 on December 31, turning the reins over to Rick Lahn.

The Echo Press asked Quist to reflect back on his six years as the district’s leader and answer the following 10 questions. Call it his final exam:

1. What will you miss most about your job?

In the end, this job is about building positive and on-going relationships within the school district and in the community. I will miss the opportunity of working and collaborating with people.

2. What is your proudest accomplishment?

There are many endeavors, such as increased student achievement and updated facilities, which have been collectively accomplished by the school board, staff and the community. However, the opportunity to offer all day, everyday kindergarten at no cost is a highlight for me.

There is so much strong research about the benefits of early programming for students.

3. How would you describe the future of School District 206?

It’s a bright future! The school board has developed a strong community-based strategic plan with a clear vision and mission that will guide the district into the future. It builds on our strong foundation in our pursuit of becoming an extraordinary school district.

4. What’s the biggest challenge ahead for the district?

The state’s inability to provide predictable and sustainable funding, along with its budget-deficit reduction approach, have put increasing pressure on the district’s operating budget and ability to preserve the quality staffing and programming that we have experienced.

5. What advice do you have for the new superintendent?

School District 206 has terrific community support and involvement. Rick Lahn comes to District 206 with great skills and will be a wonderful fit for the community and school district. Having the opportunity to get to know Rick over the past few months, I know that he will continue to build on our strong relationships with all stakeholders – staff, students, and community.

6. What are some one-word descriptions of the District 206 teachers and staff?

Dedicated, caring, quality, professional, compassionate, terrific, student-centered, supportive, collaborative.

7. What are some one-word descriptions of the District 206 students?

Amazing, energetic, bright, talented, caring, terrific, leaders.

8. What part of your job is the least understood?

The decision to close or delay the start of school due to inclement weather.

9. In a sentence, how do you want to be remembered as superintendent?

It would be important to know that I made a difference in creating a promising and bright future for our young people.

10. What are your plans for retirement?

I plan to reconnect with people, recreate and find meaningful ways to give back. While I look forward to enjoying my retirement, I will miss working for this school district. It has truly been my honor and privilege to spend my career in District 206.

QUIST’S CAREER

Terry Quist has been a District 206 staff member for more than 25 years. His administrative career with the district includes serving as a curriculum and instruction director, assistant superintendent, and interim superintendent before becoming

superintendent in 2006.

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