(Posted July 12, 2023)
By Linda Dillman, Staff Writer
Andrea Buescher is returning to Jefferson Local Schools’ Norwood Elementary this year but is moving to a different office. The former assistant principal and elementary curriculum director is taking over the reins as Norwood’s principal.
On July 11, the school board approved a two-year contract with Buescher at an annual salary of $97,500.
“I’m excited to dedicate my time and effort to the staff in making Norwood a wonderful place for a child to learn,” said Buescher after the board meeting. “I am grateful for the district, Mr. Mullett (district superintendent), and the board for this leadership role.”
A 2000 Rio Grande University graduate, Buescher began working for the school district 20 years ago as an elementary school teacher in first grade, second grade, and Title One Reading. She became the curriculum director in 2013 and was responsible for purchasing and implementing new curriculum, test coordination, and assisting with teacher evaluations.
Buescher resides in the district with her two sons and husband, Shawn, who is the district’s high school and middle school dean of students.
Prior to the start of regular action at the school board meeting, Superintendent William Mullett said a lot of discussion took place regarding Norwood and its administrative team.
“We have a job of doing some rebuilding,” Mullett said. “We’re going to form a committee representing the administration, board, and staff and be a platform for communication that we need to address.
“We want to flush these things out and make the environment better. We want to make Norwood a place where people feel welcome. We realize we have a job ahead of us.”
Board President Dr. Meg Hiss added that the board is committed to working with the superintendent and wants to make sure the school environment is positive.
In other action, the board approved a contract with Jenn Brown, who was hired as the high school and middle school assistant principal and curriculum director.
Board members also gave the go-ahead to the Class of 2024 to make a $500 donation to the welding program at Tolles Career & Technical Center in the memory of Jakob “Jake” Forrest, who died on March 9 from injuries sustained in an auto accident.
