As I prepare to say goodbye to Kenyon-Wanamingo Schools, I want to take a moment to reflect and share my heartfelt thanks with this incredible K-W community.
When I first arrived, it was a difficult time in my life; my dad was very ill, and that weighed heavily on me. I moved here to be close to him and from the very beginning, you welcomed me with open arms. I was accepted as a Knight right away, and that meant more to me than I can ever fully express.
In my time here, I’ve had the honor of working alongside dedicated staff, amazing families, and some of the best students I’ve ever met. Together, we’ve accomplished a great deal. Our graduation rates are among the top in Southeast Minnesota, something to truly be proud of. Our test scores continue to climb, reflecting the hard work, resilience, and growth mindset of our learners.
Just as significant, we’ve brought financial stability to the district. With a balanced budget and a clear path forward, we’re now on track to be out of Statutory Operating Debt by 2027. That progress didn’t happen overnight; it was the result of tough decisions and a lot of hard work from people who care deeply about our schools.
One of the most difficult decisions during my time here was closing the elementary site in Wanamingo. In nearly 30 years in education, it was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. I truly wish there had been another way to preserve our small, close-knit elementary, but the reality was, we had to make this move to secure the future for our students. And now, every graduate, whether headed to the military, postsecondary education, the workforce, or taking over the family business — is READY.
There’s so much to celebrate, but what I’ll carry with me most are the everyday moments — from playing in the pep band or driving the bus home after a game, to subbing in almost every grade level and coaching speech for the first time in my life. This was a great stop in my journey. Thank you, Kenyon-Wanamingo. It has been an honor to serve as your superintendent.
My hope is that you welcome your new superintendent, Patrick Heiderscheit, just as warmly as you did me. You’ll be amazed at how the new PK–12 building is coming together, and I know you’ll be proud when you see it all during Open House in August.
With gratitude,
Beth Giese
Superintendent of Schools
Kenyon-Wanamingo Public Schools
