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My Pleasure, My Privilege, My Honor
By Wisconsin School Administrators Alliance staff | March 16, 2022
Most SAA members have already heard the story because I have told it at conferences and meetings many times over the years. A little over twenty years ago, I interviewed for the position I currently hold with the SAA. The first question in the interview was asked by Don Mrdjenovich, former Janesville superintendent and, at that time, WASBO Executive Director. He asked, “John, what do you know about the School Administrators Alliance?” I quickly responded, “You’re the good guys!” And, for more than twenty years it has been my pleasure, my privilege, but, most importantly, my honor to represent “the good guys” before the Governor’s office, the state agencies, and the legislature in support of your efforts to meet the needs of the children you serve.
About a month ago, I informed the SAA Board of Directors of my intention to step down as SAA Executive Director at the end of this calendar year, December 31, 2022. At that time, I will be 63 years of age and will have served the SAA for 21 years. Over the years, I had a few opportunities to leave the SAA for more money but, not a better job. Ultimately, it was always an easy decision to stay with the good guys.
Why am I choosing to step down now? There are several reasons. First, twenty years in the legislative and political trenches has taken its toll. Second, I no longer have the patience to deal with the current highly-charged partisan environment inside the State Capitol. Also, as I have shared with you before, finding consensus inside the SAA on strategy and major policy issues is becoming increasingly difficult. Finally, it’s time for me to turn the page and open the next chapter in my journey. It’s also time for the SAA to turn the page as well. It’s time for a new SAA leader with fresh eyes, new energy and passion, a new skill set and new ideas.
I have chosen to make this announcement nine months in advance of my retirement because the SAA Board, with my full support, is moving forward with the succession with all deliberate speed. The Board intends to post the position opening by the middle of next month, make a hiring decision early this summer and facilitate a lengthy transition period for the new executive director.
I have also chosen to make this announcement at this time because it is extraordinarily liberating! For the next nine months, you will have a short-timer as your SAA Executive Director. I intend to operate as if I am a retired interim administrator. I plan to put my foot on the accelerator and do the things I think need to be done with just one objective in mind: To plow the ground for the next SAA Executive Director and place the SAA in the strongest possible position for success in the future.
Friends, from the bottom of my heart, thank you so much for the opportunity to serve the good guys these past 20 years. Thank you as well for all of your efforts on behalf of the children you serve. We have a lot of work to do. I know I can count on your help. Stay tuned.
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