SAN DIEGO — The leader of St. Paul Public Schools has been nationally recognized for his leadership, communication, professionalism and community involvement.
Superintendent Dr. Joe Gothard was named the American Association of School Administrators (AASA) 2024 National Superintendent of the Year. The announcement came Thursday during a national conference in San Diego.
Gothard, who has served as the SPPS superintendent since 2017, was one of four finalists up for the award after winning Minnesota's Superintendent of the Year back in October.
"Congratulations to Dr. Joe Gothard on being named the National Superintendent of the Year by the School Superintendents Association (AASA)," said Minnesota Department of Education Commissioner Willie Jett in a statement. "During my career I have had the opportunity to work closely with Superintendent Gothard and admire his hard work, community participation and student-centered focus. This well-deserved recognition is a testament to his passion for student achievement; and we applaud and thank him for his tireless work."
According to a press release from the Minnesota Association of School Administrators, superintendents from across the country were measured by their:
- Leadership for learning – creativity in successfully meeting the needs of students in the school system;
- Communication – strength in both personal and organizational communication;
- Professionalism – constant improvement of administrative knowledge and skills, while providing professional development opportunities and motivation to others on the education team; and
- Community involvement – active participation in local community activities and an understanding of regional, national and international issues.
Last month, Gothrard was named one of three finalists for a superintendent's job in Madison, Wisconsin. The other candidates are Mohammed Choudhury, former Maryland State Superintendent of Schools, and Dr. Yvonne Stokes. A decision is expected to be made by early March.
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