There are a few key components that go into ensuring that schools can operate. Instructional staff must lead engaging lessons. The maintenance staff must keep the facilities in working order. Members of the business office must make sure that all of the bills are paid.
Behind the scenes of that complex operation is the department that serves as the ringleader of a great big, crazy circus: human resources.
Newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of Human Resources, Keith Hannah, started his tenure as a Connally Cadet on July 5. He comes to Connally after spending the last 3 years as the Executive Director of Human Resources for the Hillsboro Independent School District.
“Everyone I’ve spoken to has always said that Connally has a great family atmosphere,” Hannah said. “When the opportunity to come and join the team came available, I was immediately interested.”
Hannah has spent his entire professional career working in the world of education. His journey has included stops at every level, including elementary, secondary, and college. He has been a teacher, coach, and campus and district-level administrator.
“Everywhere I’ve ever worked, I have made it a point to operate in a way that was student-centered and driven,” Hannah said. “The opportunity to work in the central office and help make decisions that benefit students and teachers is one that I treasure.”
Hannah is aware of the key role that good human resource management plays in the functionality of a school district.
“Good HR practices help us keep the district running smoothly,” Hannah said. “When you recruit, hire, retain, and grow good teachers, good things happen for the school and community.”
With the school year fast approaching, superintendent Jill Bottelberghe, who formerly served as the assistant superintendent of human resources, was concerned about the transition to her successor. Those fears were alleviated as soon as Mr. Hannah stepped into the office.
“Any anxieties that I had about vacating the HR office were put to rest once I met Mr. Hannah,” Bottelberghe said. “He has a wealth of experience and knowledge in the field of human resources and has a real ‘can do it’ attitude. That is exactly what you want for an HR officer.”
Even though their new leader just got started earlier this month, the human resources office has been marching along without missing a beat. That consistency of operations is crucial in the maintenance of success throughout the district.
“We’ve had a pretty busy summer,” administrative assistant for human resources Bertha Perez said. “We have been hiring new faculty, transferring people into different positions, and working to get everyone adjusted to the changes. Mr. Hannah jumped right in and hasn’t missed a beat.”
Faculty and staff are set to return to work on July 31. Students will return for instruction on August 9. Between now and then, Mr. Hannah hopes to get a lot done.
“I am looking forward to meeting our new hires and welcoming them to Connally ISD,” Hannah said. “I am excited to meet our entire staff and am particularly looking forward to getting out into the campuses to see everyone do the great job that I know they will.”