The St. Joseph School District Board of Education met this afternoon in a Special Executive Session to accept the resignation of Dr. Doug Van Zyl, Superintendent of Schools.
“We wish Dr. Van Zyl and his family the very best as he returns to his home state of Minnesota,” stated Board President Tami Pasley. “We thank Dr. Van Zyl for his leadership of the SJSD which saw the establishment of the Virtual Academy, the opening of our Early Learning Center, the expansion of Hillyard Technical School with the addition of new and relevant programs for our students, and so many more positive accomplishments making our district a better place. We are especially grateful for his amazing leadership throughout the pandemic.”
The Board will meet in another Special Executive Session on Monday, April 4th, at 4 p.m. to discuss the superintendent vacancy.
A Message to Staff and Parents from SJSD Superintendent Dr. Doug Van Zyl
Good Evening SJSD family,
As you are aware, I have been offered an opportunity to move closer to family and continue my educational career. This afternoon the final part of the process was completed by the Lakeville, Minn. School Board. With the completion of the process, I have given my resignation to the SJSD school board. It will be effective at the end of this school year.
My family and I are excited about the future and the possibilities it holds. But, I also realize that change may create some anxiety and stress. Please know the board will work quickly to find a replacement and I will work for a seamless transition. My leaving does not diminish the progress we have made as a school district or the challenges we have overcome these past four years. It also doesn't limit the possibilities for what lies ahead for SJSD or the city of St. Joseph. Keep pushing forward and striving to do what is best for all our kids.
Thank you for all you have done to make SJSD a better place.
Sincerely,
Dr. Van Zyl