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by DENISE MARTIN

The North Branch Area Schools Superintendent contract was adopted for another three years, by the school board, last week.  The vote was 4-0 with members Naegele and Trampe absent.

Superintendent Sara Paul was applauded for her work  since coming to the district in 2020—especially uniting a rapidly growing and in-flux community, directing the rebound from covid impacts on school schedules and also achieving financial and academic-related  progress for the district.

Superintendent salary this year is $198,295. For 2026-2027 it will be $204,245 and in 2027-2028 $210,370. The amount is not established yet for the final year. 

School Board Chair Tim MacMillan said, “North Branch Area Public Schools continues to move in a very positive direction and the Board believes leadership continuity is important as we continue building opportunities and long term stability for students and families.”

The contract renewal includes amendments to the duties and roles of the superintendent and results in the reduction of one administration position.  Supt. Paul will be more directly responsible for strategic partnerships and even workforce development.  Current district administration experience of collaborating with area business and commerce have been expanded.  

To combat a shortage of licensed teachers,  the district broke trail on a Minnesota instructor apprenticeship program that has recently re-organized into a non-profit now pulling in 28 districts.  

The school board heard last week that the original four apprenticeship scholars have graduated their program through Mankato State, and three are beginning teaching  jobs with North Branch in the fall of 2026.  All others at stages in the program are on track for their licenses.

Supt. Paul gave a ‘shout out” to North Branch area State Representative Max Rymer for being the facilitator of a state economic development agency grant to defray the apprenticeship expenses, such as the stipends, and books and tuition.

Supt. Paul also noted the district financial team has eliminated aid anticipation borrowing, still used by other districts to improve cash flow and the district bond rating has improved multiple levels. Further, North Branch has been the recipient of $800,000 in grants and its private sector scholarship support over recent years,  is impressive.

Superintendent Paul stated, “I am grateful for the trust and partnership of our Board, staff, families, students and community.  The progress we are seeing across (the district) reflects the dedication of many people working together on behalf of students.  We remain focused on creating meaningful opportunities, strong relationships and bright futures for every learner we serve.”

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