A social studies teacher from the Marinette School District has been hired as the Suring School principal for the 2015-16 school year. The School Board on Aug. 12 interviewed two candidates before offering a contract to Pamela Berg.
Berg has been an educator for 21 years, including the past 20 years as high school social studies teacher in Marinette. She earned an undergraduate degree at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, concentrating on both English and social studies, and a master’s degree in education from Viterbo University. She completed her administrative degree in December at UW-Oshkosh.
Berg has experience as a new teacher mentor, department chairwoman, leadership team member and a coach of cross-country, swimming and diving, track and field, and academic teams.
“In my role as an educator I enjoyed mentoring students in many roles,” she said in an email to the Times Herald. “I firmly believe that involvement helps students to build connections to the school community, and will strongly encourage all students to be involved in some type of sport, club or organization.”
Berg’s contract was contingent on her release from the Marinette School District, which was scheduled to take place Tuesday, after the Times Herald’s deadline. The Suring School Board approved a 12-month contract at a salary of $81,067.
According to Berg, goals for the 2015-16 school year will be set after a brainstorming session with the staff. Her personal objectives are to increase visible learning and differentiation in instruction.
“As a district, my hope is to help students to see the relevance and importance of their own academic and personal growth. This can be achieved through a continuous improvement model and helping to facilitate a growth mindset,” she said.
Suring Superintendent Kelly Casper described Berg as kid-driven, organized and motivated — someone who will bring energy, knowledge and high school experience to her role as kindergarten to grade 12 principal.
Forty-nine individuals applied for the position vacated by Steve Huisman, who accepted an elementary teaching position in the Pulaski Community School District. The School Board also interviewed Kimberly Bakeberg, Shawano Community High School Spanish teacher.
“I am very excited to join the administrative team at the school district of Suring and look forward to meeting parents, students and community members,” Berg said.
