District Seeking Interim Principal for M.W. Savage Elementary

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The search is on for an interim principal for M.W. Savage Elementary after Principal Jeremy Willey tendered his resignation this week.

Willey will soon head to the northern suburbs, where he has accepted a new job  as Principal of Fernbrook Elementary in the Osseo Area School District. The Burnsville-Eagan-Savage School District is hoping to have a temporary replacement ready by Aug. 30, when the open house for the 2012-2013 school year is scheduled.

At this point, it is unclear what the future may hold for the school. The district is . The Board of Education has discussed the possibility of school closures in an effort to cut costs.

"Because the school year is starting soon and there is the possibility of closing a school in our district next year, I recommended hiring an interim principal for one year which will provide the greatest degree of flexibility," said Superintendent Randy Clegg, who added, "There are many qualified candidates who would be eager to be the principal at a wonderful school like M.W. Savage."

Willey has been with the school since the 2008-2009 school year, after he took the helm from longtime Principal Ron Cin retired at the end of 2007-2008. Clegg reportedly told the Savage Pacer that he was "disappointed" by Willey's departure. 

"His leadership will definitely be missed," Clegg said. "He was focused on what really matters—and that's the quality of education our children are receiving."

Clegg cited Willey's ability to forge personal connections with the community as one of the keys to his success as a principal. Willey was particularly adept at using 21st century means of communication to connect with parents and students. He has a regular Twitter presence and a blog as well.

But on July 26, Willey opted to put pen to paper, sending out a personal letter to M.W. Savage families. In his final farewell, Willey wrote that he'd taken the job to be nearer to his home in Plymouth.

"Last year, my now expanded commute proved to be a difficult one for our family, as I spent more and more time in the car, in traffic, and less time at home. Despite my love for Marion W. Savage, I decided to explore any opportunities outside of ISD 191 that may be closer to my family," Willey wrote.

"I have a tremendous amount of respect for each and every one of you, for the efforts you take to support your student(s), and for the unwavering commitment you have for Marion W. Savage Elementary in making it a premier elementary school," Willey concluded. "Please know that I will forever be grateful for the opportunity I had to work with you."

Willey's resignation is effective as of Aug. 3. Applicants will have to submit their resumes by the deadline on Aug. 12.