Joe Gothard describes himself as a "hero of hope."
The new superintendent of St. Paul Public Schools has visited 55 district schools and shared photos on a Twitter account carrying his "hero" handle.
He's held a dozen "listen and learn" sessions. He's heard people speak of experiences with the state's second largest school district — and with the broader community.
"Some of that conversation hasn't always been easy," Gothard told the school board this month. But he offered an upbeat take on his first six months. "Far more have come and said how proud they are, and the wonderful experiences they've had, too. In both cases, you can learn a lot."
Now, the action starts.
January will see a ramping up of Gothard's plans to set a new strategic direction for the district. Families will attend a school-choice fair for preschool and kindergarten programs that are pivotal to reversing the district's enrollment woes. Contract talks with teachers and staff members are bound to intensify.
Here is a look at some of the work and challenges ahead.
Building(s) for the future
When touring facilities, Gothard said he has engaged in a "scavenger hunt" of sorts, seeing buildings configured in unique and incredible ways. But he said the district still has a ways to go to facilitate 21st-century learning.