The Arbor Vitae-Woodruff school board has decided to launch a search for a new principal to replace Rich Fortier, who will retire at the end of the school year. At the Nov. 10 meeting, parent Daniel Trainor voiced community concerns about the school’s “stale” atmosphere, poor communication, and hiring transparency. Board member Judi Nelson announced nine applicants were received. The personnel committee selected four for interviews to be held on Tuesday,including the district’s school psychologist Katie Bachman, but Bachman declined. The committee (including board members, a parent, two teachers, Hardy, and Fortier) will select the principal or re-post the position. Nelson urged parents to run for Randy Quade’s seat in the April 7, 2026 election, as she, the Woodruff town chair, will not seek re-election.