David's Blog

Duluth Public School District #709 is undergoing a transformation. A renewed sense of optimism abounds within the district. Hope and purpose fill the administrative offices at Old Central. Community members are re-committed to helping move the district forward. This optimism, hope, purpose, and commitment are the direct result of Keith Dixon’s appointment to the position of superintendent of schools.

Since being appointed to the superintendent position in March of 2005, Keith Dixon has been a high-profile, decisive and collaborative leader. Positive breakthroughs are occurring in the district. Communication among school officials is strong. The district’s strategic direction is becoming clearer and more compelling. Each of these advancements indicates that this former public school teacher, this former school councilor and principal and experienced superintendent of schools is a strong and capable leader.

A few weeks ago, Keith Dixon was the keynote presenter at a Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce luncheon. His presentation attracted a capacity crowd of 120 attendees from the Chamber’s membership. This was the first time that many of these individuals had met Keith Dixon. It was the first time they witnessed Keith’s quiet confidence, his resolve, and his compelling perspective on education. And these community and business leaders were impressed.

Chamber members left the interaction with confidence that the challenges facing the district will be addressed and overcome by this experienced, talented leader and his administration.

Two days after Keith’s presentation to the Chamber’s membership, our community learned that a contract between the Duluth School District and its largest union was reached without the help of a state mediator – the first time in a quarter-century such an agreement has been reached. The 120 Chamber members who attended Keith’s presentation are not surprised to see Keith’s leadership put into action. We expect good things to occur within the district and know that positive district news will become routine.

It is an exciting time to be a Duluthian. Our public school district is in capable hands. Our public schools are effectively preparing students for success in the workplace, success at home, and success in the community. Our public and private schools offer an attractive incentive for families to relocate to Duluth. For those of us who already make Duluth our home, our schools affirm our decision to make this Emerald City on the Hill the community in which we reside.