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Community Corner

Q & A: Shannon Park Elementary Principal Michael Guthrie

Shannon Park Elementary Principal Michael Guthrie opens up on questions that hit families right here...in Rosemount.

It's no secret that with all of the budget cuts within District 196, belts are being tightened, jobs are being lost and basic education will need to be adjusted. This week Rosemount Patch spoke Michael Guthrie, principal of on how these budget cuts will affect his school.

Rosemount Patch: Hello, Mr. Guthrie. Thank you for taking the time to chat with us about the current budget situation. How long have you been the principal at Shannon Park Elementary School?

Principal Guthrie: You're welcome...thank you for taking the time to meet with me. I've been here for 11 years.

Rosemount Patch: What did you do before you became principal of the school?

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Principal Guthrie: I taught fifth grade for two years at Rosemount Elementary and then taught first grade at Shannon Park for eight years.

Rosemount Patch:  That's a very impressive time commitment, Mr. Guthrie. It sounds like the Rosemount Schools have a definite place in your heart. Mr Guthrie, rumor has it that in some of the local elementary schools, 5th grade band may be cut from the educational program. Is that the case for Shannon Park?

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Principal Guthrie: There are no plans to cut fifth grade band in the district. We are blessed with an exemplary band teacher, Cindy Larson.

Rosemount Patch: How is Shannon Park Elementary School trying to stretch the funds that are currently available?

Principal Guthrie: We have to accept the fact that we have to do more with less. That is our new reality in education.

Rosemount Patch:  What is your favorite memory of the students so far?

Principal Guthrie: Everyday is a joyous one in an elementary school. The energy is amazing. I love being around these students. We have great families here. Recently we were honored as a Minnesota School of Excellence and had a wonderful school assembly to celebrate.

Rosemount Patch:  If you could save one thing that's on the chopping block right now, what would it be?

Principal Guthrie: Most of the money that is spent in this district is for teachers and other valuable support staff. I hope we can prevent layoffs in the future.

Rosemount Patch: Mr. Guthrie, what are your hopes and dreams for this school?

Principal Guthrie: I want every child in this school to reach for the stars and to always do their best. I hope someday our financial outlook will be more positive.

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