North Hennepin News

The school board has chosen Dr. Kim Hiel to lead Osseo Area Schools. Prior to being selected for the role, Hiel participated in an hour-long interview on Feb. 27 and then a day-long interview on March 1, which included conversations with staff, scholars, parents/caregivers and community members.

“Dr. Hiel is passionate about her work and centers scholars in all she does,” said Board Chair Jackie Mosqueda-Jones. “Her exemplary experience with teaching and learning and strategic planning makes her well positioned to lead our district and bring our bold future to life. It’s also an honor to have Osseo Area Schools first Black superintendent.” 

Hiel has over 20 years of educational experience. She is currently the superintendent of Fridley Public Schools. Prior to her time there, she was an assistant superintendent at Osseo Area Schools and before that a principal at Zanewood Community: A STEAM School, within the district. Additionally, she has been a principal at Robbinsdale Area Schools. The Minnesota School Board Directors of Color and Indigenous Fellowship and Minnesota Association of School Administrators have both recently awarded Hiel for her distinguished leadership. 

“I’m honored to be joining such a strong community,” said Hiel. “I’m looking forward to partnering in bringing our schools to even greater heights.”  

The district is now entering into contract negotiations with Hiel. Her service is expected to begin on July 1. 

“I want to thank all five candidates for sharing their time and expertise,” said Mosqueda-Jones. “Each and every one of them was highly qualified.”

The search process was coordinated cooperatively with School Exec Connect, a national search firm that specializes in supporting school boards in hiring leadership positions. Details on each step of the search process is available at district279.org/SuptSearch.

Original source can be found here.