The industrial arts program at Cook County Schools – ISD 166 appeared to be in danger of closing down after the resignation of industrial arts teacher Peter Johnson on January 5, 2016. Fast action by ISD 166 prevented that from happening and industrial arts will continue—at least for the time being.
Principal Adam Nelson, not present at the Thursday, January 21 school board meeting due to his attendance of a meeting of the Minnesota Association of Principals, presented a written report of the second semester industrial arts plan. With the shuffling of some teaching assignments and Social Studies Teacher Mitch Dorr taking on the majority of the high school industrial arts classes, the program will remain intact for the rest of the school year.
However, reductions to industrial tech programs were made. Woods and Construction and All Girls Shop will no longer be offered. Principal Nelson told the school board that fortunately no girls had been scheduled for the second semester program.
The district received just one licensed applicant for the vacant position, which does require a certified instructor. Dorr has obtained a variance allowing him to teach in that capacity. The applicant was not willing to move mid-year into the position but is very interested for next year and will interview for it before spring break.
The school has also had contact with Saint Cloud State for the purpose of obtaining applicants from their industrial arts program.
New superintendent search continues
Board Chair Jeanne Anderson reported that MSBA has had four calls of inquiry so far regarding the opening of the superintendent position. She also has a tentative meeting set with the superintendent and two board members of the Lake Superior School district in Two Harbors to discuss the possibility of sharing an administrator. Board Member Sissy Lunde will attend as well. Currently about a dozen superintendents in Minnesota perform duties for more than one district.
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