The following is this week’s I AM, YOU ARE, WE ARE Nominee by Jodie Ingram
Integrity, passion, and respect are all words that have been used to describe this week’s I am, You are, We are nominee, Brent Rademacher. Brent has worked in the Bismarck school district since 1994. Starting his career as a science teacher, moved into the Dean of Students, and is currently serving as the Principal of Bismarck-Henning Rossville-Alvin Cooperative High School. Brent’s nomination stated, “I’ve worked with a lot of administrators throughout the years, and Brent leads the pack in integrity, passion, and respect. He isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty and do manual labor if it needs done (just ask him about the work he’s put in for the new BHRA sports complex). He leads intentionally. He isn’t afraid to be honest when he has an opportunity to learn something. I appreciate it when we don’t see eye-to-eye because he asks great questions and listens to my stance. I am a better leader because of Brent.”
Throughout Brent’s interview, I just kept thinking about all the moments that led him to where he is today. Working on the family farm and helping his dad with his concrete business was the foundation for his love of science and concrete work. Being the oldest of 3 siblings established his role as a leader and a teacher. Helping his younger brother with sports led him to his passion for coaching. Meeting his high school sweetheart led to a beautiful marriage of nearly 30 years, 2 wonderful kids, and one amazing grandson. Experiencing the loss of his sister, inspired him to stay strong through the struggles and keep faith in God just as she did. Brent has been able to use all the experiences to shape him into the person he is today. He enjoys sharing his experiences, both good and bad, to provide guidance for others.
Another moment Brent shared occurred in 5th grade. To some this moment may not have meant much, but for Brent, it is a continuous reminder of the influence coaches and teachers can have on their students. Surprisingly, Brent was not the biggest fan of school as a child. His coach, Mr. Polston, approached him with a look of disappointment and without a word showed him the paper where he was failing three different classes. Mr. Polston was a highly respected coach and teacher so disappointing him was something Brent vowed to never do again. Mr. Polston had a huge impact on Brent and his education going forward. As the principal, Brent is always reminding his staff and coaches to be mindful of their position and how their actions and words can affect the students.
When Brent is not working at the school or attending BHRA events, he enjoys time with his family, attending church, Illini Basketball games, Danville Dans games (they have been a host family to 4 of the players), volunteering for Operation Honor Guard, and woodworking. Brent and his wife still live in the same home they built in 1996 and they love the life they have built here. He also wanted to give credit to his wife stating, “She has always been there as a sounding board and supporting behind the scenes when my duties at the school demand my time. She was always holding down the home front supporting me even while balancing her career as well. In good times and bad, she has been the rock for myself and our family. I have no idea how she does it all, but I am so thankful.” He would also like to acknowledge Ron Winkler, Earl Lindsey, and Randy Hird for encouraging him in the field of educational leadership.
Thank you, Brent Rademacher, for investing in our students. Thank you for leading with integrity, passion, and respect. Your commitment and leadership truly makes our community a better place!
If you have someone you would like to share,
visit https://forms.gle/deCPiQ1cxn1pDLhZ9
or contact Ashton Greer, City of Danville agreer@cityofdanville.org or
Nicole Van Hyfte, Vermilion Advantage nvanhyfte@vermilionadvantage.com.
