Dear Superintendent Engel and G-E-T School Board Members,

We write to you as members of the Trempealeau Elementary Community to express concern over the current hiring process for the Trempealeau Elementary Principal position and to ask for your support in rehiring Mr. Lynn Halverson as principal.

Mr. Halverson’s previous experience as the Trempealeau Elementary Principal, as well as his 12 years of teaching within the G-E-T School District, attest to his ideal suitability for the position.

During his tenure as Principal, Mr. Halverson did an excellent job and was an asset to the school. He possesses strong communication skills, is professional and courteous, and demonstrates that as Principal, he leads by example. In his interactions with staff, students, and parents Mr. Halverson has proven that our children’s education and safety are his top priority.

We are concerned that Mr. Halverson was not granted an interview and is subsequently no longer considered a candidate for the Trempealeau Elementary Principal position. Additionally concerning is the lack of explanation as to why a highly qualified candidate with Director of Instruction Certification and proven experience as our principal was not considered.

In light of these concerns, we ask that you:

• Reconsider Mr. Halverson's exclusion from the interview process.
• Require the G-E-T School Board to convene in closed session to hear and resolve any past or current issues that may reside with Superintendent Engel regarding Mr. Halverson.
• Thoughtfully consider reestablishing Mr. Halverson as Principal of Trempealeau Elementary.

As Trempealeau Elementary community members, parents, teachers and staff, we take extreme pride in our school and advocate for the best possible environment for our children's education. Mr. Halverson has proven his ability and desire to provide a safe, supportive and successful education for our children.

Thank you for your attention to these important matters.

Sincerely,

The Trempealeau Elementary Community