Dear Editor:

As a lifetime member of the community, graduate of Wawasee schools, and veteran teacher of 30 years in the corporation, I wanted to reach out to our community and express my feelings as I look forward to working for Dr. Steve Troyer, who was recently announced as the new superintendent of Wawasee Community School Corporation.

I was lucky to work for two years under Dr. Troyer while he was principal of Milford School where I was introduced to him as a leader who can be trusted. He continually builds and strengthens relationships with his staff. One of Dr. Troyer’s strongest assets is he is a transparent communicator. He supports and encourages open dialogue.

He listens with an open mind and respects teachers for the work we do. In addition, he embraces unconditional feedback. Dr. Troyer is continually looking for opportunities to grow as an administrator so he can be a trusted servant to students, teachers, and parents. He builds and maintains relationships that feel genuine and supportive.

Most importantly Dr. Troyer wants Wawasee schools to succeed. He has embraced the corporation mission of meeting the needs of all our students and helping them reach their full potential. To accomplish this, Dr. Troyer empowers teachers, encourages us to take risks, and celebrates our efforts and successes. He inspires confidence and trusts teachers to do their very best for our students.

On more than one occasion, he has asked for my ideas as an experienced teacher, engaged in thoughtful discussion, and moved forward while incorporating my input. This type of engagement has made me feel valued both personally and as a teacher.

I am excited about Dr. Troyer leading our corporation and representing our three communities. In my time working with him, he has proven his trustworthiness time and time again.

I respect the work he has done, look forward to the vision he will set for the future, and am eager to follow his lead at Wawasee.

Ann Mangas

Second Grade Teacher

Milford School