---

The Minnesota Elementary School Principals' Association (MESPA) recognized Warren Retzlaff, Lakeside Elementary Principal, with the 2009 MESPA Division Leadership Achievement Award.

The award honors principals whose exemplary leadership and sustained efforts have made noteworthy contributions to the operation of effective school learning programs - improving education, their communities, and their profession.

In nominating Retzlaff, Taylors Falls Elementary Principal Joe Thimm said, "Warren is well-respected by his peers and has served as a mentor to many new principals. He is always ready to help when a need arises. He is always there if you need a question answered or advice about a problem you may have. Warren is not one to seek recognition but instead just does his job and makes sure he works hard for every student. His motto should be "Kids First," because this is not only followed, but at Lakeside it's practiced. Warren deserves this honor but he would be the first to say you don't honor someone for doing their job."

In his principalship, Retzlaff follows the philosophy of John Wooden: "Don't let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do."

MESPA members selected 12 of their peers to receive the 2009 MESPA Division Leadership Achievement Award; Retzlaff was nominated by his Central division colleagues.

---