Mr. Shane Baier will be the next Northfield High School principal, beginning July 1, 2022. Mr. Baier will succeed Dr. Joel Leer, who has accepted a position as an assistant professor of educational leadership at Minnesota State University, Mankato.

Over 40 staff, students, parents, and community members were involved in the selection process.

An experienced principal, Mr. Baier served as principal at Mankato East High School, Spearfish (SD) Middle School, Mountain Home (ID) Junior High School, and most recently at Washington Elementary School in Mankato. He has bachelor’s and master’s degrees from South Dakota State University and an education specialist degree from Minnesota State University, Mankato.

“Mr. Baier is a highly regarded, experienced school leader who has the right skill set to grow Northfield High School’s standing as one of the best high schools in Minnesota,” said superintendent of schools Dr. Matt Hillmann. “His commitment to relationships, equity, academic excellence for every student, and program development are precisely the leadership qualities we were seeking. We are fortunate to have a leader of Shane’s caliber join our Northfield School District team.”