Shakopee's New Superintendent Begins Aug. 1

Rod Thompson has occupied just about every educational job that Minnesota school districts can offer.

From teaching K-12 students to serving as an assistant principal and principal positions, and finally working as superintendent—with a few administration jobs along the way—Thompson seems well prepared to take on the job of superintendent for Shakopee Public Schools.

After his unanimous election in June into the superintendent position, Thompson is excited to work in this growing city. Thompson is replacing the retired Jon McBroom.

Thompson said that unlike teaching, where you can reach a limited number of students, the superintendent position allows him to affect the lives of thousands of students.

“What I'm most proud of is watching our students in any of the districts that I've been in improve their achievement and go off to college or to jobs,” he said.  

Thompson, who comes over after serving as superintendent in the St. Anthony-New Brighton School District, said passion and drive have distinguished his career in education. Upholding a higher vision about education and achievement, he added, helps him navigate his job.

The former superintendent, McBroom, is mentoring Thompson through the transition.

“I really want to pay tribute to Jon McBroom,” Thompson said. “He has gone the extra mile to make sure the district is in good shape.”

Thompson expects to move his family to Shakopee by next spring. Until then, he's hoping parents of schoolchildren and other Shakopee citizens introduce themselves to him and take an investment in his transition.

“I’m a people person who loves to communicate and talk to people,” he said. “I’ve learned that you have to do a lot of listening and pay attention to the culture and the people, so you listen and learn what they’re all about.”