Rochester, MN — The Minnesota Association of Secondary School Principals (MASSP) announced that Brant Goetz, principal at John Adams Middle School, was selected by his peers to represent the Southeast Minnesota Association of Secondary School Principals (SE MASSP) as their SE MASSP Middle School Principal of the Year.
In their nomination, his peers noted that, “Brant leads by example, focusing on building a culture of trust and care for one another. Brant leads with ‘out-of-the-box’ thinking, meeting each student where they are at through creative ways. Brant has incorporated service-learning opportunities at John Adams to foster students' sense of self-worth, including student leadership opportunities to visit nearby elementary schools during recess. Brant is always willing to listen, offer thoughtful advice, and empower others to find solutions. He is often heard saying, ‘Hire good people, and get out of their way.’ Brant’s leadership style is reflected in the strong staff retention year after year. He is a veteran principal whom both students and staff deeply trust.”
“Brant Goetz is very deserving of this honor and exemplifies the type of leader who creates a strong feeling of belonging amongst students and staff alike,” said Chief of Schools Jacque Peterson.
Principal Goetz has served in Rochester Public Schools for more than 20 years and has been the principal at John Adams Middle School for seven years. He started his career as a special education teacher in the Twin Cities Metro Area. Since moving to Rochester, he has worked as a special education supervisor at the middle school level, as an assistant principal at Gibbs Elementary and John Adams Middle School, and as principal at Elton Hills Elementary before becoming the principal at John Adams.
"I am truly humbled and honored to be selected,” said Principal Goetz. “Most of the recognition belongs to the incredible teachers, dedicated staff, amazing students, and families I have the opportunity and privilege to work with."
MASSP represents over 1,350 secondary school leaders from across the state of Minnesota. For more than 100 years, the organization has advocated for strong, effective school leadership. Minnesota is divided into eight regions, each of which selects one representative for this annual recognition. In December, a statewide selection board will review all eight finalists and choose one to represent Minnesota at the national level.
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