Fritcher Recognized as Superintendent of Distinction

Teutopolis Unit 50 Superintendent of Schools Bill Fritcher has been named the 2016 Superintendent of Distinction by his colleagues in the Wabash Valley Region of the Illinois Association of School Administrators (IASA).

Fritcher will be honored at an awards luncheon April 21 in Springfield. State Superintendent Dr. Tony Smith is the featured speaker at the luncheon that will honor 21 IASA regional Superintendents of Distinction.

(BILL FRITCHER)

“I am honored to be chosen to represent the Wabash Valley Region,” said Fritcher, who has been an educator for 26 years, serving as teacher and administrator before becoming superintendent of the Teutopolis district in 2010. “There are so many deserving superintendents in our area.  I feel like I do what many superintendents in our area do – go to work every day trying to do what is best for the students in our respective districts.”

Those nominating Fritcher noted that the district continues to maintain financial stability through turbulent times and cuts by the state, and has improved communication through social media and the establishment of a district newsletter. In addition, the district has completed a plan to implement a 1:1 technology program and is in the middle of a goal-setting/strategic planning process involving the school board and stakeholder groups.

“Public education is facing some of its most difficult times, and that is when leadership is most important. These ‘Superintendents of Distinction’ were selected by their peers in their regions because of the dedication, commitment and leadership that they have demonstrated,” said IASA Executive Director Dr. Brent Clark.

The second annual awards luncheon is again being sponsored by Horace Mann, one of the nation’s largest insurers focusing on the needs of educators.

“Each year, educators face growing challenges, and this year is no exception. Despite those challenges, superintendents constantly find ways to make their school districts successful,” said Marita Zuraitis, Horace Mann President and Chief Executive Officer. “We are proud to recognize the ‘Superintendents of Distinction’ and applaud their efforts to provide outstanding educational environments for their students and their teachers.”

Fritcher and his wife Julie are parents of two children, Hannah and Evan.