Superintendent

Let me tell you about...Our Superintendent

"Rarely do you meet a person that has such a profound positive impact on your life that you are forever changed for the better. Mr. Bogner is one of those rare people."  —Tessa Bogel, Former Student

You may find it odd that I started this with the above quote, but I did so because if you've had the opportunity to meet Mr. Scott Bogner, you know firsthand that it sums him up in a nutshell.  It all started in June 2006, when hurricane Bogner blew in to the Grant Public Schools Community.  Upon first meeting him, you are quick to realize that kids are his number one priority, a trait he wears on his sleeve and makes no apologies for.   When Mr. Bogner arrived in 2006, the economic outlook in public education was starting its downward trend.  Over the past five years Mr. Bogner has had to make some unpopular decisions, but his standard has remained the same—"it's all about the kids."   He’s fought and worked hard to maintain programming and give kids choices. Whether their interests lie with academics, sports, fine arts or a combination of all—these programs help students be successful.  He understands that kids can’t learn if things are not good in their life or if they are hungry.  This is one reason he implemented the universal breakfast program in the 2009-2010 school year.  Every child should be able to start their day with food in their belly.

It is not uncommon to see Mr. Bogner in the buildings mingling and laughing with the kids.  As he will tell you "it's all about the relationships.  The kids need to know you love and care about them!"  If you were to ask, you would probably be hard-pressed to find students who don't know who Mr. Bogner is—his joy is being where the kids are.  He has an open door policy and is always accessible.  It doesn't matter if you are a parent with a concern, a student who is downtrodden, or a staff member with an idea.  He is there to listen, offer advice when needed, and fix a problem when it needs fixing.  He treats kids and adults alike with respect and they respect him in return.  He is never too busy for anyone who needs help or just a sympathetic ear.

I asked for input from staff members upon creating this page and one stated "There is no job that is beneath him.  Mr. Bogner chips in wherever he is needed to get the job done."  This is most evident before and after school as he crosses the kids at the crosswalk on Elder Ave.  I've heard tell from the bus drivers that the kids are so excited to wave to Mr. Bogner as they pass him on the bus.  Truth be told, I think he gets more of a kick out of it than they do!

I don't know how long this tidbit of information about our superintendent will be available online, because if you really know Mr. Bogner as I do, he is not one for the spotlight.  But I, on the other hand, think it's important that our community know what a caring compassionate leader we have and how lucky we are to have him!

KathiThornton
Executive Administrative Assistant
Grant Public Schools