Alternative Organizational Structure (AOS) 98 Superintendent Robert Kahler reported to board members Oct. 1 on his first 100 days in the central office since Keith Laser retired. Kahler focused on the helpfulness and generosity of the board, school staff and communities for welcoming him and for helping get schools back open safely.

Many of the decisions the AOS 98 board and district boards had to make were challenging on personal and professional levels, but everyone acknowledged the importance of careful planning, said Kahler. Things are running more smoothly because of that hard work, he said.

“I've been amazed at the generosity of the different communities in terms of time and in terms of people reaching out and the different philanthropic organizations in all the communities … and the opportunities kids have from that generosity. I'm just excited to take some of those next steps refocusing on … where we're headed and what opportunities we want our kids to have.”

As the central office and administration team finish some of the big items like grant writing and two contract negotiations, district and school leadership will be able to focus on day to day items such as reestablishing connections within and outside the schools, visioning and long-term planning. It also means Kahler can look forward to visiting classrooms and filling in for principals when needed so the entire administration team can start focusing on other duties like observations, evaluations and reconnecting the schools to their respective communities.

“We talked about that need to sort of really have that common mission and vision for where we want to end up and how we're going to get there while still recognizing the very different communities and the strengths therein … I can tell you right now (the principals) have not had time to really get into rooms and it's not because they're not working crazy hours and trying to make it happen.”

Kahler said he has also not been able to ingrain himself into the schools as much as desired, due to the immense work the pandemic has brought for everyone, but he is thankful to see those opportunities opening up.

Kahler said the board should consider some long-term goals in common services like grant writing and curriculum coordination. While principals would still oversee that work, help would ensure long-term focus on main duties like supervision, observations and evaluations.