The superintendent of the South Washington County School District is retiring early.
Keith Jacobus made the announcement at the Thursday meeting of the school board.
Originally, Jacobus told the board he would be leaving in June 2021, when his current contract expires.
“I decided to retire earlier than planned,” said Jacobus, 62. The retirement is effective Sept. 2.
At the July 16 meeting, the board decided to begin talks with assistant superintendent Julie Nielsen about becoming Jacobus’ successor. Nielsen is 26-year veteran of the district, serving six years as assistant superintendent.
Jacobus, in a statement to the board, said the pandemic was a factor.
“Last spring as the pandemic took hold of our lives and forced us to confront our vulnerabilities,” he said, “I began to reflect on my career and the time I have to spend with the people I love… I long to spend more time with my family.”
In an email, Jacobus said Friday that he was proud of several accomplishments during his tenure.
“I am most proud of our work to personalize the educational experience for our kids. Our strategic plan has just two objectives, personalized instruction, and improving the culture and climate for students and staff,” he said. “My belief is that we need to treat all children in our district as if they were our own.”
Jacobus successfully managed referendums that built the new Oltman Middle School and gave the Nuevas Fronteras Spanish Immersion program its own learning site.
Jacobus was praised by board chairwoman Tracy Brunette.
“He has made significant changes in our district,” she said. “As a board member who hired him eight years ago, I am so thankful for the positive impact he has had on our students, families and community.”