By Christine Erntson, marketing and communication coordinator
June 10, 2022 | 8 a.m.
PACT Charter School welcomes Ms. Romelle Pornschloegl as the new Executive Director of Secondary Education!
Ms. Pornschloegl, or Ms. P. as she offers to make it easier, began her career in education in 1995 and has held several positions starting with teaching her favorite subject—American History. When her son contracted a rare virus and needed special accommodations, she became passionate about the role charter schools play in the individual needs of underserved children populations. This passion took her back to school (University of Minnesota - Go Gophers!) and into the administration side of charter schools to make sure all students receive a high-quality education.
Pornschloegl’s outgoing leadership and personality have already shone through in her early interactions with PACT staff and School Board members. She “loves a good gala” and held instrumental roles in school fundraising and building enjoyable opportunities for families to come together. She is excited to meet new people and partner with others passionate about their children's education. She understands that parents are the first educators to their children and should have an active role in teaching them, but we can also enjoy the journey together.
Not surprisingly, her main focus is always on the students. She especially loves middle school students “because of the energy and optimistic passion they provide to life.” She appreciates high school students on their pursuit towards post-secondary pursuits and understands the complexities surrounding their endeavor. “Positive school culture is a vital part of a school’s success,” says Pornschloegl. She utilizes an open-door approach and is always prepared to listen. Building relationships with students, staff, and parents is one of the key elements of how she determines her success. Being present and accessible is a priority for her, finding her daily in the lunchroom interacting with staff and scholars. “If students don’t have a consistent opportunity to interact with administrators, communication and relationships breakdown.” Pornschloegl feels that eventually students will relax and relate to her so she can build relationships forwarding a school culture focused on strong character values and academic success.
When working with teachers and staff, she easily trusts and then verifies. “Teachers have gone to school, received their degrees and licensure, and as such should be treated as professionals. Staff members need access to quality resources and consistent professional development in order to grow professionally. Inspecting what we expect while supporting teachers helps ensure we are all moving forward in the pursuit of excellence. I am excited to start this journey with the entire PACT community,” says Pornschloegl.
This new role at PACT is part of the preparation for expansion to a second location for middle and high schoolers in 2023. A few miles north of the current location near Central Park in Ramsey, a new building will sit within the beautiful wooded landscape and include an auditorium and stadium. Pornschloegl is most excited for this brand new setting and for the foundation it creates with new and continued community partnerships that allow PACT to double its student population.
Pornschloegl will start her new position at PACT Charter School on July 1, 2022.