On Jan. 25, Mrs. Kari Lutter, the new assistant principal for Homestead High School, began her position. As Mrs. Lutter begins her journey at Homestead, she shares some facts about herself.

What made you want to come to Homestead?

Since coming to Wisconsin for college, I’ve heard only amazing things about Homestead.  It has been a goal of mine to work in a district that is innovative and focused on student achievement.  I was extremely excited to be offered the position and become a Highlander.  

What are you looking to achieve as the new assistant principal?

My number one priority, at least initially, will be to get to know the students, staff and families.  I want to be visible and available to all.  I am also looking forward to being involved in all things related to student learning.  

Where have you worked prior to Homestead?

Prior to this position, I was the associate principal at Watertown High School.  Before beginning that role, I was an English teacher at Slinger High School and Fond du Lac High School, where I taught AP Language and Composition, American Literature, Composition and speech.  

How long have you been an assistant principal?

I have been an assistant principal for three years.

What made you want to be an assistant principal?

In everything I did, from projects in high school to organizations I joined in college, I would take on a leadership role.  As I continued in my years as a teacher, I realized I wanted to reach students, staff, and parents on a different level.  I miss teaching every day, but I truly enjoy the opportunities I continue to have as an administrator.

What is your favorite part of your past experiences with being an assistant principal?

One of my favorite parts of being an administrator is being able to help students and families on a different level. Sometimes there are a lot of things happening outside of our school building to each and every one of us, and that can make it tough to juggle all of our responsibilities.  I enjoy being someone who can assist and offer guidance through that process.  I also love being able to go into multiple classrooms to observe the amazing things our teachers do.  I have learned so much from them as an observer, and only wish I had that same opportunity when I was still teaching to apply those strategies and techniques to my own classroom.

What/who opened your eyes to becoming an assistant principal?

In a rather stereotypical response, my mom is my inspiration.  She has been a principal in Illinois since I was in middle school and was a teacher prior to that.  I have watched her dedicate her career to helping her students and staff achieve their fullest potential, and can only hope to do the same as I continue my career in educational administration.  

If you could do one thing besides being an assistant principal, what would it be?

I would definitely spend every opportunity I had available with my family.  Life happens so quickly, and I want to enjoy every moment I can with them.   

How did the events of Friday with the WhatsGoodly app affect what you planned for your first day?

Each day brings new challenges and experiences we don’t expect.  The administration at Homestead works together as a team, and we were able to get through Friday and prepare for what Monday, and every day after, brings.

What is your favorite thing you have experienced in the past few days at Homestead?

Everyone has been so welcoming–tons of smiles and introductions. It’s been made clear this is a great place to be each day.