By Jolene FarleyTodd Holthaus, new Hills-Beaver Creek elementary principal, began his duties last week during teacher in-services.Holthaus said he’s been "very impressed" with the staff and community. "Everybody has been so welcoming and I have heard and seen so many great things coming from the staff and their families," Holthaus said. He was principal for two years at St. Cloud Christian School for kindergarten-through 12th-grades. St. Cloud Christian School had 255 students. Before that position, he was an elementary teacher for 10 years, a Community Education Director, and prior to that, he was assistant high school principal for two years at Albany area schools. The Albany area schools had 1,600 students, according to Holthaus.Holthaus earned his undergraduate degree from Moorhead State University and a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from St. Cloud State University. He also has a six-year certificate in educational administration. Holthaus said he doesn’t plan sweeping changes in the elementary school but hopes to build on a strong foundation."I hope to continue a good thing and augment my own talents, coming alongside a great staff and great students," he said. Holthaus said he’s excited to be back in a smaller district. "I really like the small school setting," he said. "You get to know people very well in this setting and build relationships." Holthaus and his wife, Sherri, and children, Noah, first grade, and Grace, 4, will relocate to the area after the sale of their house in Waite Park.Holthaus invites everyone to the Elementary Open House from 7 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 8.
