MADISON, WI — The Wisconsin Association of School District Administrators has named Dr. Amy Starzecki, district administrator for the School District of Superior, as the Wisconsin Superintendent of the Year.
Dr. Starzecki has over 20 years of experience in various educational leadership roles across small, medium, and large school districts. She is being recognized for her role in increasing graduation rates and overall student achievement throughout the district’s schools.
Dr. Starzecki initially entered the field of education as a school psychologist, later taking on roles as a special education coordinator and principal. Prior to her position in Superior, she served as an assistant superintendent with the Duluth Public Schools, where she further honed her leadership skills.
With her focus on increasing graduation rates and overall student achievement, Dr. Starzecki has forged strong partnerships with families, students, staff, and community organizations. Her collaborative approach underscores her commitment to supporting all student populations within the district.
As district administrator, Dr. Starzecki prioritizes building effective community partnerships to enhance the educational landscape for the children of Superior. She actively collaborates with a variety of organizations at local, regional, and state levels to advocate for public schools and the community.
“We would like to express our sincere congratulations to Dr. Amy Starzecki for this tremendous honor,” said Steve Olson, president of the Superior Board of Education. “She has demonstrated an ability to build strong relationships and clearly understands how important collaboration is with her administrative team, board members, teaching and support staff, and our students, parents, and the greater community. Amy has long strived to make the School District of Superior the best in the state and continues to take on tasks, no matter how big or small, to reach that goal.”
WASDA will present the 2024 Wisconsin Superintendent of the Year award to Dr. Starzecki at the joint WASB/WASDA/WASBO Convention in Milwaukee in January 2025.
Dr. Starzecki holds a doctorate degree and a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Dakota. She also earned a master’s degree in school psychology from Northern Arizona University. Additionally, she holds licenses as a school psychologist, special education director, K-12 principal, and superintendent, and serves as an adjunct professor teaching graduate courses for aspiring administrators.
“I am truly honored to receive this recognition. This is a result of the work of our amazing educators and students in the School District of Superior,” Dr. Starzecki said. “Each day, it is a privilege to serve such an incredible community, and I am proud of what we have accomplished together these last seven years.”
Since its inception, WASDA’s Superintendent of the Year program has become widely acknowledged as the most prestigious honor a Wisconsin school system leader can receive. Criteria include successfully meeting the needs of students, personal and organizational communication, professionalism, participation in local community activities, and an understanding of regional, national, and international issues.
