John Magas started his first year as superintendent of schools on July 1, 2020, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. For the first two years of his tenure, everything revolved around COVID-19 and what was best for students. Now that we are back in the groove of a typical school year, he is focused on equity and inclusion and doing the work to make sure all students achieve at a high level. 

As ISD 709 learns more about best practices for guiding and positively shaping student behavior, they have revised responses to reflect this increased awareness. The district also realizes that all systems have room for improvement and embraces a state of continual refinement to ensure that practices are bias-free and focused on building success for all learners. 

Magas believes that by working together in these efforts, ISD 709 will create meaningful relationships, engaging learning, and a positive school climate and culture. The end results will be increased happiness and academic achievement for each student of the Duluth Public Schools.