Dear Sparta Area School District Learning Community,
It is with great enthusiasm and honor that I write this letter as your new Superintendent for the Sparta Area School District. I am very excited to begin working with every one of you as we begin this new journey. By working together, I am confident we will continue, and enhance, the great traditions and expectations in the community of Sparta. The students and parents of our community are depending on the school district to deliver effective curriculum, instruction and activities with a growth mindset for all. Even though many stakeholders know me as Sparta High School’s Principal, my first mission is to establish trust and build collaborative relationships with each of you. I want to know what people think is going well and also where they see opportunities for growth. Please see this video for highlights of this message.
My leadership style is inclusive, supportive, and collaborative. It is possible we may not always agree on the best path, but we will always interact in an honest and respectful manner as we need to work together to ensure that all succeed at the highest levels. Seeking input and feedback will be very important as I will work with energy, determination, and commitment to make Sparta the best school district as possible.
Let me briefly describe my professional experiences:
- Sparta High School Principal since 2008
- Watertown High School Assistant Principal
- Watertown, Jefferson, and Rhinelander High School Teacher (Chemistry and Mathematics)
- Coached baseball and football, and advised National Honor Society
- UW-Oshkosh (undergraduate), Manhattan College (NYC, graduate), and Viterbo University (certification)
Personally, my wife Amy and I have been married for 19 years and together, we have two amazing daughters (Malory and Amelia) who are extremely special to my heart! Besides spending time with my family, I enjoy the outdoors, Brewers, Packers, and Badgers.
Summer is winding down, and school will be starting before we know it. Through site visits I will begin the process of learning more about your thoughts and goals for our district. Please look to join me in these opportunities soon.
Like all districts, we have work to do; our job is one of continuous improvement! We will tackle this task collaboratively as we continue moving our organization forward improving both our teaching and learning. I hope you will be able to find time this summer to enjoy your family and friends. Again, with great enthusiasm I am looking forward to serving you, and serving our students, our families, and our community along with you. Take care and please look for future opportunities for us to become familiar with each other.
Sincerely,
Sam Russ
Superintendent
Sparta Area School District
Go Spartans!!!