The Glidden-Ralston and Coon Rapids-Bayard Community School Districts have officially named the new shared interim superintendent position. The districts have appointed Thomas Ridder for the leadership role, with a two-year contract, serving as interim superintendent due to the other finalist removing himself from consideration and Ridder’s lack of experience in a shared agreement. Ridder previously served as the superintendent for the Logan-Magnolia CSD, supervising the schools and assisting with recruiting, hiring, evaluating, and training staff. A few of the most significant accomplishments established by Ridder in his time at Logan-Magnolia CSD were generating one-to-one technology for all students in the district, organizing a three-year-old preschool program, and overseeing the passing of a $12.4 million bond issued in March of 2022. Ridder says, “My family and I are thrilled to be joining the Coon-Rapids-Bayard and Glidden-Ralston school districts; both are well-supported by their communities, are in solid financial shape, and most importantly, are dedicated to serving their students and provide the best education possible. We are looking forward to meeting people, learning more about both districts and the communities, and make this area our new home.” Board Presidents for both districts, Tim Lee (Coon Rapids-Bayard) and Michael Schulze (Glidden-Ralston), shared the following statement: “Tom Ridder is eminently qualified to serve as the shared superintendent. Both boards were impressed with his visibility, approachability, and superintendent experience. We are very pleased to have Tom as superintendent for both our districts.” Ridder will officially take over leading the Coon Rapid-Bayard and Glidden-Ralston Community School Districts on July 1.
