 Well Bemidji Area Schools will be headed by a new leader this upcoming year and he's excited to be a servant of the people. Reporter Cheryl Moore sits down with Bemidji School Superintendent Tim Lutz. The school year is approaching fast in Bemidji. A new superintendent Tim Lutz says he's thrilled and humbled to be serving in his new role. His focus will be on the students and staff and making sure they all feel engaged. As an instructional leader I think it's really important to work on ways that students and staff can can be supported and that we can create an environment where students are engaged. A few challenges Lutz identified going into the school year include increasing the graduation rate and attendance rates. He'll also be looking at the disproportionate amount of suspensions when it comes to minorities. When kids re-enter the halls this fall they'll also see some new faces and hopefully some new improvements to safety. Thanks to a few grants from the Department of Education. 28 percent of our district leadership including some of the principals are new so it'll be exciting to develop that new team and to create some new direction. We have a lot of hopes that with the new safety grants that are coming out that we can make some major changes in our school safety in terms of infrastructure and facilities. Parents may also be wondering about the new Jean Dillon Elementary School. Lutz says he's happy to report construction is complete and the building is ready for staff and students to move in. It's no longer a construction site where we need to wear helmets and vests and eyeglasses but it is indeed a school so except for a few minor cosmetic concerns that we're still working on and some outside work with landscaping it is a building that we can move into it is a building that is ready. Lutz will also be looking at improving the school culture and making sure students want to be there. He plans to do that by talking to the students one-on-one. I'm excited about the opportunity to allow students to have a voice and to empower them with opportunities to share their thoughts. Meeting with student council I would also like to be able to convene meetings with other students perhaps students from minority groups. Last the superintendent wants everyone to know that if you have a question or concern don't be afraid to ask him. Lutz describes himself as a civil servant to the people and his job is to help everyone. I'm just a down-to-earth person so if anybody has issues or concerns they are more than welcome to address me anywhere they see me. Reporting in Bemidji, Shaw Moore, Lakeland News. Lutz says another one of his big goals will be closing the achievement cap. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.