Stephanie Shawback, of Lakeville, has joined the Northfield Public Schools as the new Director of Business Services effective November 1. Shawback will oversee all the district’s financial operations in addition to transportation, food service, buildings and grounds and risk management.

Shawback received a bachelor of science degree in accounting from Minnesota State University in Mankato and holds a CPA. For the past five and a half years, she has served as the Executive Director of Finance for the Minneapolis Public Schools.

Shawback replaces Tom Stringer who has served as the Director of Business Services for the past six and a half years. On December 1, he begins a similar position with the Orono School District.

Shawback is enthusiastic about her new role. “I am excited to be in Northfield. It’s a great district with a great reputation. I hope to continue the great work that Tom has done during his time here,” noted Shawback.

Shawback sees challenges as well. “Responding to the state’s budget deficit and how it will impact K-12 education is certainly the biggest challenge,” said Shawback.