By Seth Schmidt
St. Mary’s Priest Robert Mraz had made Sunday morning appeals at Mass for several weeks. St. Mary’s School was searching for a new principal. Did anyone know of qualified person who’d be interested in the position?
Sitting in one of the church pews, Dave Dieter would nudge his wife, Lisa, with the suggestion: “You should apply.”
To which, Mrs. Dieter would reply: “But I don’t have my Master’s degree.”
Still, the principal job sounded intriguing. Lisa had a teaching degree, had worked in school settings for many years, been involved with youth organizations, and felt drawn to church work.
The Tracy mother of three decided to talk with Father Bob, and formal interviews began. Last week, Dieter began her new responsibilities as the principal for St. Mary’s School.
“I love it here,” said Dieter, as she took a break in her office at St. Mary’s. Already possessing an undergraduate degree in education, Dieter has started course work at Southwest Minnesota State University for a Master’s degree in school administration, which she hopes to complete within two years.
As school principal, Dieter oversees all school operations, staff, students and curriculum. She will also teach physical education and health classes, and help out with the St. Mary’s music program.
“It’s a perfect fit,” Dieter says. She has a strong music background, having played baritone sax in a college jazz band, and being able to play several other instruments, including violin, flute and clarinet. Her under-graduate degree is in physical education, and health.
More than any job she’s ever had, Dieter feels that the St. Mary’s principal position allows her utilize all of her abilities and interests.
For more on this article, see this week’s Headlight-Herald.