By Rich Larson
After 17 years with Northfield Public Schools, including the last 10 as superintendent, Tuesday marked Dr. Matt Hillmann’s final day leading the district before beginning his new role as Executive Director of the Minnesota Association of School Administrators (MASA).
In a farewell interview, Hillmann reflected on a career that took him from a social studies teacher and technology instructor to one of Minnesota’s most recognized educational leaders.
Hillmann joined Northfield Public Schools in 2009 as Director of Human Resources and Technology, later serving in district leadership before becoming superintendent in 2015. Looking back, he emphasized that the district’s accomplishments were never the work of one person.
“While I’m accountable, we are all responsible for this gem of a school district,” Hillmann said. “I’ve always talked about doing things with people and not to people.”
Among the achievements he highlighted were the district’s consistently strong academic performance, expanded career and technical education opportunities, the return of agricultural education, and efforts to elevate student voice through the District Youth Council.
“I’ve always been proud that I seem to have had a knack to help draw leadership out of students,” he said, noting how former student leaders are now making impacts in their own communities.
Hillmann also pointed to the district’s extensive facilities improvements during his tenure. Northfield voters approved a major referendum that launched the reimagined Northfield High School project, while every school building in the district received updates or renovations.
“The facilities are important because they’re the canvas in which we can create this academic experience that’s second to none,” Hillmann said.
No challenge, however, compared to navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. Hillmann described the experience as one of the most difficult periods of his career, requiring constant decisions based on rapidly changing information.
He credited the community for ultimately working through its differences and moving forward together, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness and grace during a period marked by uncertainty and fear.
Among numerous honors received during his career, Hillmann said the City of Northfield Human Rights Award holds special meaning because it came through a nomination from the district’s Hispanic Parent Advisory Committee.
As he prepares to leave, Hillmann expressed confidence in incoming Superintendent Dr. Tim Anderson, the school board, staff, and the district’s future.
“This is a special place,” he said. “The district is a sacred trust, and I know that we’re in good hands moving forward.”
For Hillmann, the next chapter will bring statewide leadership responsibilities—and, he hopes, more evenings spent at home with his wife, Mary, and family, whose support he called essential throughout his career.
Rich Larson is the owner and General Manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net.
