The School Town of Munster is looking for a new superintendent again as Bret Heller announced his resignation Wednesday.
In an email sent to parents Wednesday evening, Heller said it is “with a mix of emotions” that he accepted the superintendent position for Thompson School District in Loveland, Colorado, after its board approved him at a Wednesday meeting. A press release STM sent out Thursday morning confirmed his resignation and said he’ll start with Thompson July 1.
Heller said in a statement that serving as STM’s superintendent has been an “immense privilege.”
“I am incredibly proud of the progress we have made together, and I deeply value the relationships I’ve built with the amazing members of the school board, the professional and dedicated staff, supportive parents and community, and all of the phenomenal students,” Heller said. “As I embark on a new chapter with the Thompson School District, a move driven by the desire to be closer to family, I will always treasure my time in Munster and the strong bonds we have built.
“While I am excited for the future, leaving such an exceptional place is bittersweet.”
“Over the past three years, Dr. Heller has brought strong leadership, clarity of vision, and a deep commitment to student success,” STM Board President Kyle Dempsey added. “His work has helped position our schools for long-term success, and he has led with integrity, focus, and heart. While we are sad to see him go, we are grateful for the impact he has made and wish him all the best in his next chapter.”
Heller arrived in Munster in 2022 after serving as Assistant Superintendent of the West Ada School District, about 12 miles west of Boise, Idaho. He replaced the retiring Jeffrey Hendrix.
He steered STM through numerous initiatives and challenges, including the contentious possible purchase of the Munster Center for Visual and Performing Arts; ultimately, STM passed on the property.
He also was vocal about the potential impacts of Senate Bill 1, which will cut $7.3 million from the district’s tax draws over the next three years in order to fund property tax savings of up to $300 per homeowner. Across the state, districts are set to lose $744 million in funding and cuts will also be felt at the township, municipal and county government levels.
In an April 4 letter to parents, Heller warned that Senate Bill 1 would potentially lead “to cuts in essential services like student transportation, custodial and maintenance staff, facility improvements, capital projects, and utility expenses.” Senate Bill 1 was signed into law by Gov. Mike Braun on April 15.
Heller said in the email that he’s already working closely with the Board “to support a smooth and successful leadership transition.” He’ll remain through the end of June, he said.
“I am grateful for the unwavering support, kindness and trust by the families of Munster,” he said in the email. “Your commitment to our schools has helped shape a district that is truly special.”
Michelle L. Quinn is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
