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Siebeneck Farewell
BALLARD R-II SCHOOLS
10247 NE State Route 18, Butler, MO 64730-9204
816-297-2656
John K. Siebeneck, Superintendent Stephanie Nold, Principal
May 15, 2021
Ballard R-2 School District: Past and Present
When I began my teaching career 32 years ago I had little, if any, idea where education would take me. When I started here in 1990, I, like many other people in the community, did not expect me to be a mainstay for the Ballard R-2 School District. Little did I know that I would meet and work with so many wonderful people. More importantly, the idea that I may have touched the lives of so many of whom have passed through this school district. Going into education my passion for teaching and coaching kids is what I truly enjoyed. I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to be part of the lives of so many young people for so long. As we all know, all good things must usually come to an end, and it is with great satisfaction that I call an end to a career in education about which I feel most blessed. It is now time, after 31 years of serving, educating and leading others, to enjoy the kind of flexibility in my life that will enable me to spend more time with family and close friends.
Perhaps the hardest for me to say is, “it’s time”. Letting go and admitting “It’s time” is more challenging when you love so much what you do, especially the people. Even though my title has changed over the years, my vocation has always been “teacher and learner”, specific to meeting the needs of the children and families. I have been afforded so many opportunities by this district and will be forever grateful for them.
I would like to thank the current, and all former Ballard Board of Education, faculty, staff, students, and the community for the privilege of being a Ballard Bulldog. This is a community that always put children first and demonstrates their support in so many ways. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to each of you for the commitment, dedication, encouragement, and support you have provided on a daily basis to me and to this district. Administrative positions can be frustrating, difficult, challenging, and stressful, but I have been blessed to work with a progressive and supportive Board of Education, a collaborative group of talented teachers and staff, and a community invested in its children. When you are surrounded by a great team the position becomes not only manageable, but also very rewarding.
I have an “ask” of you. What I ask is for your continued and ardent support for not only your child’s or children’s education, but also for the Ballard R-2 School District. The work that educators do is challenging in many, many ways. Your support for these professionals, therefore, is paramount.
It is, ultimately, the community that provides the energy, the guidance, and the direction for our school. And, in turn, it is the school which prepares students for their entry into the community as fully responsible adults and citizens. The amazing fiscal, emotional and intellectual support from parents and the community is second to none in the nation.
I have grown older, grayer, and a bit more blind during my service and time here. However, I’m not so old that I can’t watch from a distance, admire, and cheer for you all in the future. I am looking forward to seeing the next chapter for Ballard R-2 unfold, and I’m confident it will be a complete success so long as we keep our eyes and hearts focused on always doing what is best for our children.
I want to know that, as I retire, I have been faithful to my limited and God given talents. For the past 31 years I have served this district with enthusiasm and dedication. I am honored and grateful, and hope that my leadership has contributed to the district’s success. Again, I want to thank the Ballard R-2 School District for the opportunity to serve.
Forever A Bulldog,
John Siebeneck
Teacher, Principal, Superintendent, Coach, Bulldog