Winona Area Public SchoolsWinona Area Public Schools is pleased to announce Dr. Sarah Knudsen as the new Director of Special Education and Emily Solheid as the new Director of Human Resources.
Dr. Knudsen received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education and English/Language Arts from the University of Northern Iowa and a Master of Arts in Special Education from Morningside College. She then returned to the University of Northern Iowa to obtain her Director of Special Education license and finally a Doctorate in Special Education with an emphasis in Educational Leadership.
Sarah has most recently served as the Regional Administrator at Central Rivers Area Education Agency. In addition to her role as Regional Administrator, her 20-year career with the AEA included serving as a Special Education Coordinator, Special School Principal for students with significant behavioral and mental health needs, and Special Education Consultant. Prior to that she taught as an elementary special education teacher in both Minnesota and Iowa.
Dr. Knudsen stated, "I am very excited for this tremendous opportunity. Winona Area Public Schools has a great reputation. I am anxious to get to work and look forward to serving the students, families, educators and community members in this position." Dr. Knudsen will officially assume her new role on July 1, 2018.
Emily Solheid has been serving as the Human Resources Administrative Assistant with Winona Area Public Schools since 2012, providing direct support to the current Director of Human Resources who will retire in June. Prior to WAPS, she was employed as a Staffing Specialist at DMark Group dba Manpower where she was responsible for recruitment and employee management for an assortment of Winona area businesses. Emily graduated from Saint Mary's University of Minnesota with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Human Resources Administration and Marketing.
Emily stated, "During my employment with WAPS, I have had the distinct pleasure of getting to know members of our staff while witnessing the passion and drive these individuals have for our students. I am excited to continue to grow in my career with WAPS and I am honored by the confidence shown in me for this amazing advancement opportunity. I am looking forward to continuing to build relationships with our staff and community and I am eager to learn more about our district from this new perspective."
Emily will continue her role as Administrative Assistant until she officially assumes her new role on July 1, 2018.