During the month of September, we will be featuring each of the school superintendents in Marion County, asking them each the same set of questions. We are using this as an opportunity to show their passion for education and their schools as well as a little glimpse about them. Today, we visit with Jim Peterson, the River Valley Local Schools Superintendent.
What made you want to be in education?
The only reason anyone should be in education is to help young people be successful!
How long how you been in the education field? How long in Marion County?
This is my 45th year in education and my 5th year as superintendent at River Valley.
What was your favorite subject in school and why?
My favorite subject was science, primarily because of the labs involved with science and I am a hands-on learner.
What is your favorite book to reread and why?
I recently read the book “Above the Line” by Urban Meyer. The focus is not about football– although that plays a large part in this book — but, the main idea is guidance in life!!!
What do you believe are important skills to help a student be successful in school?
I am currently reading a book entitled “Old School Grit.” This book highlights some rules for success which we all need periodically. We, as leaders, need to encourage our students to reach for the stars. We need to encourage our students daily to be the best they can be!
If you had 3 wishes for your students this year in school, what would you wish?
1-Reach your potential, academically, spiritually, and emotionally.
2-Try something new such as a different extra-curricular.
3-Never, never, never give up!
Tell us something that most people don’t know about you.
My wife and I have 3 sons, all graduates of River Valley. All three have a college degree, they each have 2 children, each are gainfully employed, and they are off my cell phone plan!!!
Thank you, Jim, for sharing with MarionMade!
