GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – The candidates for superintendent of the Green Bay Area School District are in town this week.
Current Executive Officer of Organizational Development at the Metro Nashville Public School System, Dr. Sonia Stewart was the first of the two to meet with people around the city.
“I had a blast being in three of the schools this morning – shoulder to shoulder with great leaders. I got to spend lunchtime in a high school cafeteria, there’s nothing better than that,” Stewart tells WTAQ News, “It’s been great on every level. Spent time with the teachers union and felt like their questions were very intentional and they have real clear priorities. And also with the support union who have deep commitments to be a part of and contribute to the kids in the city.”
After meeting with unions, teachers, administration, and more – Stewart is beginning to develop a sense of the Green Bay community. Commitment to students and the future seemed to shape her first impressions of the town and the district.
“There’s a lot of aspiration and hope for what is and what can be. There’s a commitment to the children of this city and the staff that staff our schools,” Stewart says, “How authentic and transparent people have been from the very, very beginning. I feel like everybody has a story to tell as it relates to your city and they want to tell it.”
So what is the magnetic force drawing Stewart away from Nashville and towards the Frozen Tundra?
“Green Bay is a city in transition. That’s what it feels like to me. Part of what attracts me to this city right now is that it feels like you’ve changed a lot in the last decade, and so I’m curious about what’s ahead of you and how I can be a part of that,” Stewart explains, “Just the sense that I get of deep concern and care for our children and a commitment to do all we can to make that happen.”
For more information about Dr. Stewart and her background, check out our Q&A with her here.
Stephen Murley is visiting the district on Thursday. He is the current Superintendent of Schools for the Iowa City, Iowa public school district.
