5 questions with Toby Ringwald

Editor’s note: The Purcell Register is continuing its feature in which civic leaders and others will answer five questions. The following were answered by Toby Ringwald, Wayne School Superintendent.

Q: Do you miss the classroom/coaching?

A: I loved coaching and being in the classroom due to the fact you could really connect with and help students. I feel like as an administrator, I am able to help impact all students which is more rewarding for me.

Q: How does the role of superintendent differ from teaching/coaching?

A: I am removed a bit from seeing students daily, so I try to get in all three buildings several times a week.

Q: What is your management style?

A: I have always tried to manage as a leader and not a boss. I truly feel I am a servant of this community and school and feel blessed everyday to be able to be in this position.

Q: Is there any job in education that you didn’t have, but wish you had?

A: I have been fortunate to love my job for the past 20 years, and I have never felt like I have had to actually work a day in my life. There isn’t a particular job in education that I wish I had worked. At a small school I am able to wear many hats which allows me to be around campus to help wherever I am needed.

Q: Most of your tenure as superintendent has been during the pandemic. Do you feel you have experienced what you expected as superintendent?

A: While it has been a crazy couple of years, I have learned through my 20 years that if it wasn’t a pandemic it would be something else. I am fortunate to serve the best staff, students, and community in the state, and I believe that no matter what happens we will get through it together.