A Good Man From Gillett

From the Shawano Leader.

"Gillett school administrator Rivard plans retirement
By Nathan Falk, Leader Reporter

After being part of education in Gillett for a quarter-century, district administrator Stuart Rivard is retiring later this month.

A native of Balsam Lake, Wis., located in the northwestern part of the state, Rivard has made an impact in several roles at Gillett. He’s served as a classroom teacher, Reading Specialist, Curriculum Director, Staff Development Coordinator, Elementary Principal for eight years and is currently in his sixth year as District Administrator.

“It is difficult to count all the accomplishments here because I tend to view what may be considered accomplishments as just doing my job and a team effort with others involved,” said Rivard.

Several of those initiatives that Rivard is proud of Gillett completing include all-day kindergarten, beginning a four-year-old kindergarten program, initiating breakfast in the district, expanding opportunities for advanced students, being a part of starting the alternative school for students in danger of not receiving a high school diploma, and keeping the district in a financially sound condition. It hasn’t all been a smooth ride, though.

“I would have to say our declining enrollment is a challenge, the state issuing more and more mandates without adding funding, maintaining sound educational programming while funding decreases,” he said.

Rivard is a graduate of Polk County Teachers College. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree from UW-River Falls; Masters Degree in Reading from UW-Oshkosh; and a Principal Degree through UW-Milwaukee. He received Superintendent’s Certification from Winona State University, Winona, Minn.

Upon his retirement June 30, Rivard marks 32 years in education, with 25 in Gillett.

“I began my teaching career in the Oconto Falls District for 7 years,” he said. “I left education for 5 years and was a dairy farmer and also worked in Agri-Sales. I returned to teaching in 1985 in Gillett where I taught Jr. High Literature and English.”

Looking back, Rivard said he has many good memories.

“I think the most fun times was when I was elementary principal — cookies, cupcakes and hugs every day,” he said.

As far as retirement plans, Rivard said he has a couple of new grandchildren that haven’t been properly spoiled.

“My wife is also retiring after a 30-year career in education, most of which has been in special ed. There’s a lot golf that we haven’t played yet and some fish that we haven’t caught,” he said.

Rivard also said he has a 1968 Mustang that needs some attention, but still has other plans to keep busy.

“I plan to seek some type of part-time employment — plus there are many projects around the house that have been neglected over the years,” he said."

Link to Leader.

Thank You Mr Rivard.