Summit County Citizens Voice

Summit school board picks new superintendent.

Colorado Springs educator Dr. Hedi Pace tabbed to replace Millie Hamner

By Summit Voice

SUMMIT COUNTY — The Summit School District Board of Education has chosen Dr. Heidi Pace, currently the Deputy Superintendent of Academy School District 20 in Colorado Springs, Colorado as the next Superintendent for Summit School District.

Board members made their decision at Tuesday night’s board meeting. This vote followed two site visits conducted for finalists Pace and Kerry Buhler, currently principal at Upper Blue Elementary School in Breckenridge. Contract negotiations will be the next step in the process with the start date for the new superintendent being July 1, 2011. 

“Both candidates are top-notch, talented administrators with a strong commitment to kids. We want to emphasize that Kerry Buhler is an amazing lady. This was a very difficult decision for all of us,” said School Board President Jon Kreamelmeyer.

“This process has brought to light Kerry’s amazing accomplishments, dedication and leadership. Kerry Buhler is no longer the best-kept secret in this district,” said Margaret Carlson.

Dr. Pace has been with Academy School District 20 since 1995 in a variety of positions including elementary school principal, director of human resources, director of learning services and most recently, deputy superintendent.

A few of her recent responsibilities have included oversight of district math and reading initiatives, the expansion of language immersion programs, and development of a principal supervision program and Leadership Academy for principals, as well as management of district and school strategic planning.

When asked as part of the application process why she was interested in this position, she responded, “I am looking for the opportunity to lead a kindred district whose vision I share. Summit’s mission of providing exemplary academic and character education for each and every student is the same mission I aspire to every day.”

The board of education and interim superintendent Karen Strakbein will work with Dr. Pace in a smooth transition of leadership for the district.

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