Todd Holthaus, principal at Hills-Beaver Creek Elementary School, Hills-Beaver Creek School District

“The task of the modern educator is not to cut down jungles, but to irrigate deserts.”

In his principalship, Holthaus follows the philosophy of C. S. Lewis: “The task of the modern educator is not to cut down jungles, but to irrigate deserts.”

Hotlhaus was nominated by his Southwest MESPA Division colleagues.  Division President Karen Coblentz (principal, St. Peter) stated: “Todd served for two years as the president for the Southwest Division. He has been a great leader for our division, implementing a web site to share division information. Todd also was great with communication and encouraged all members to attend meetings. He always had a positive attitude and worked to make each member feel a part of our division. Todd was willing to share his expertise as his district joined the Southwest Minnesota Flexible Learning initiative. He is passionate about student learning and was a model to all of us to continue to grow professionally. Our division unanimously voted Todd as our Division Leadership Award recipient. He is very deserving.”

Among his most significant career accomplishments, Holthaus included:

1.     Hills-Beaver Creek School District Educational Leadership Team

“First and foremost, being a part of the Hills-Beaver Creek School District Educational Leadership Team, and being able to work with a team of talented folks, students, staff families and community members.”

2.     Elementary Staff and Student Achievement

“Being a part of an elementary staff that truly has students at the center of their being. Making decisions based on what is best for the students and their achievement.”

3.   Southwest Minnesota Flexible Learning Initiative

“Being a part of the Southwest Minnesota Flexible Learning initiative, a consortium of 25 school districts with a passion focused on student achievement. The results are yet to be realized, but many restructuring items are in place to see some very good results in the area of student achievement.”

Holthaus has been very active in the MESPA organization, serving as the Southwest Division president and president-elect.