Government : School Board October Meeting Agenda includes Superintendent Resignation

Click to view October agenda

Among topics, the resignation of School Superintendent, Mary Jo Hainstock who has served the Vinton Shellsburg Community Schools for over 10 years. 

Her letter of resignation reads:

Dear Vinton-Shellsburg Community School District Board of Directors:

It is with mixed emotions that I compose and submit my letter of resignation effective at the end of my 2019-20 contract. '

Over the last 10+ years, I have been privileged to work daily with dedicated principals, directors, central office staff, teachers and support staff who have focused on providing great learning opportunities and experiences for our students as we are supported by generous and devoted parents and community members.

During my tenure, I've been fortunate to work with an outstanding school board - including four talented presidents - and one of the finest administrative teams in the state. Even with the potential of several new board members after the November election, I'm confident the experienced members' philosophy and institutional knowledge will allow the board to remain focused on meeting student needs while being fiscally responsible to our taxpayers.

Rich and I have been embraced by the school-community. We've had the opportunity to help revitalize the downtown, participate in local theater, and be active in community groups and events. We've enjoyed and benefited from living in a community with strong medical system; customer-centered small businesses; active churches; and a sense of community.

By announcing my intentions now, the board can complete the hiring process in a timely manner. I anticipate there will be a strong field of applicants - who wouldn't want to be a part of the VintonShellsburg Community School District?!

There's still much to accomplish this year and I plan to remain focused on doing what's best for the school district and our students over the next few months. After June 30th, I'll have plenty of time to determine what "retirement" looks like for me.

Respectfully and with gratitude,

Mary Jo Hainstock Superintendent

"Life's most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?" - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 

Plans following her resignation include travel with her husband Rich. She said of the district that it is, "in a great spot, we have strong leadership throughout the system (board, admin, teachers and support staff), our facilities are in great shape; our food service program is operating without a deficit and we are serving more fresh and locally sourced food; and while we will never be an affluent district, we have been able to manage our resources so money is not used as an excuse for not doing something."

On a personal note, this editor will miss Mary Jo's leadership, and her availability any time I've asked her a question.  Best wishes!