PEOPLE

The Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities announces that Annika Grassl, of St. Paul is one of just 30 Minnesotans currently participating in an advocacy training course, Partners in Policymaking. This free, nationally acclaimed program is for adults with developmental disabilities and parents/legal guardians of younger children with developmental disabilities. This eight-month program runs from September to May and through informative and interactive sessions, the program teaches leadership and advocacy skills and the process of developing positive partnerships with elected officials and other policymakers who make decisions about disability supports and services.

Grassl, who was born with cerebral palsy, defied doctors who said she may never walk, talk, or feed herself. Because of a strong support system and proactive treatments, Grassl has been able to overcome large obstacles her entire life. She credits the advocacy of others for her success. She hopes by being part of this program she can also be an advocate for those who need support the most.

Since its inception in 1987 almost 1,200 Minnesota self-advocates and parents have become stronger advocates by participating in group exercises and teaching from experts in the field of developmental disabilities. Classes cover the history of disability and self-advocacy movements, inclusive education, supported living, and competitive employment. Individuals are given tools to influence county, state, and federal legislative processes.  

With May graduation from the program approaching, Grassl is excited to learn from leaders in the field of disability advocacy. She believes making strong connections and better understanding policy will prepare her for a future full of advocacy for herself and others.

For more information, browse https://mn.gov/mnddc/pipm/. Deadline to apply is July 1, 2024.

 

St. Paul Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Joe Gothard will be the next superintendent of Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) in Madison, Wis. Gothard attended school and spent most of his education career in Madison before coming to Minnesota in 2013. He has served as superintendent of Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS) since July 2017, and is credited with leading the district through the COVID-19 pandemic and his strategic direction in the recovery efforts, including stabilizing enrollment after several years of declines. Most recently, he was named the 2024 National Superintendent of the Year by the School Superintendents Association (AASA).

“Dr. Gothard has been a strong leader for SPPS, and we are grateful for his nearly seven years of service to this community,” said Halla Henderson, Chair of the SPPS Board of Education. “At the same time, we are excited he has the opportunity to continue his career and return to his hometown with his family.”

 

Dr. John Thein will serve as Interim Superintendent of St. Paul Public Schools. Dr. Thein has over 50 years of experience in education, including 17 years as Superintendent of Roseville Area Schools. He previously served as Interim Superintendent for Saint Paul Public Schools in 2016-17. He most recently served as Interim Superintendent of ROCORI Public Schools in Cold Spring, Minn.

Dr. Thein will start on May 20 and serve until a permanent superintendent is hired. As Interim Superintendent, he is not eligible to apply for the permanent superintendent position. 

“Passing the baton back to Dr. Thein is a familiar feeling after I received it from him in 2017,” said Dr. Gothard. “Dr. Thein knows Saint Paul Public Schools well, and I am confident he will provide the steady leadership our community needs until a full-time superintendent is hired.” Get updates on the superintendent search at spps.org/superintendentsearch.