Quotes and statements from others

I just graduated and moved to Montana, but I just wanted to say thank you for 12 amazing years! You made my whole elementary, middle and high school years! Will never forget you and your impact.

E.E.

You know how much of an impact you have when all the kids know you. Thanks for all that you do.

A.E

My kids loved having you as a bus driver sometimes and seeing you around town and the district! My almost high schooler still cherishes his Pete the Cat stickers you gave out!

MH

My daughter loves him too! She was so excited to tell us all about Pete, and the autograph is something she cherishes!

C.D.

Can you be our permanent driver?

(Students on buses for which I am a substitute driver)

As a substitute bus driver, I’ve loved meeting the majority of our students and building connections with so many of them. It always honors me when the kids recognize me and call me by name—especially if it’s been months or years since our last ride together.

When I’m out and about, I often cross paths with students who remember me. It’s extra satisfying when they can introduce me to their parents.

What I give them is a “Pete the Cat” card. The deal is simple: anytime we cross paths outside of the bus, they can say hi, and I’ll give them a card. I’ll sign it if time allows.

How does all this help me on the board? I gain valuable insight and feedback directly from the students—both from what they share with me and what I overhear. I pick up the vibe as soon as they step on the bus, and I quickly notice how things differ from one school to the next. On field trips, I witness firsthand the impact of these experiences, especially visits to museums and nature centers. On sports trips, I feel like an honorary member of the team—and I’m proud to have a strong record of driving winning teams.

Hi there! I'm just wanting to say hi and thank you to Pete, if it is the same Pete Kelzenberg from Rosemount who taught me private swimming lessons a million years ago. He was such a patient and kind instructor way back then, and worked so gently with me, he helped me overcome my fears of swimming and the water, and I became a swim instructor and lifeguard. I believe it was learning to teach from his generosity that started me on my own path to becoming a teacher myself. So please tell him I said thank you!

K.C.

I'd ask that you cease engaging in this reckless attempt to appease a few teachers.

P.C.

You should resign

N.C.

Thank you for your service.

(So many teachers, staff, and residents)

I spent my youth and young adult years teaching, managing, and directing swim lessons and operations for another large school district. Reading this brings back so many wonderful memories and makes me extra appreciative of that chapter in my life.

I’ve occasionally been criticized by a very small number of people for taking positions that differ from the administration. That usually happens because I’m listening to what our community and staff actually want. A clear example was my vote against an earlier school start. Two people disagreed strongly and told me I should quit, but hundreds of others supported my stance. Those are the voices that keep me going.

The incredible support so many of you have shown me is deeply appreciated and is a major reason I want to keep serving our students, families, and staff.