At its March 24 meeting, the St. Anthony-New Brighton School Board announced Dr. Steve Massey as the interim superintendent for the 2026-2027 school year.  

Following Dr. Renee Corneille’s previously announced departure effective July 1, 2026, the School Board considered multiple leadership options. The Board first discussed this transition at its March 3 meeting and ultimately chose to appoint an interim superintendent for the 2026-2027 school year. This approach allows time to engage staff, families, students, and community members in developing a clear leadership profile and to conduct a thoughtful, inclusive search for a permanent superintendent in the future. 

The Board partnered with the Minnesota School Boards Association's (MSBA) interim superintendent search service, which is free for MSBA members, to identify experienced and qualified candidates. Input was also through a survey of School Board members, district administration, and other district leaders, including representatives from the teacher, food service, custodial, and para/clerical unions. 

Feedback consistently highlighted important qualities for the interim leader such as stability during a year of transition, trust building skills with staff and the community, strong experience in district operations related to budgets and finances, and a commitment to ethical leadership and professional integrity. 

Individual Board members had the opportunity to meet with and provide input on the final candidate. This feedback resulted in unanimous support for Dr. Steve Massey. 

Dr. Massey brings over 30 years of experience in public education and currently serves as Superintendent of Forest Lake Area Schools and had previously announced his plans to retire from the district in June 2026. 

As superintendent, Dr. Massey focused on strengthening instruction, improving student achievement and graduation rates, and building strong community support for the district. Prior to his superintendency, he spent 14 years as a high school principal, leading efforts to expand college readiness and increase academic opportunities for students. Additional leadership roles throughout his career include principalships at both elementary and alternative learning buildings as well as assistant principal and school counselor.

In addition to his K-12 leadership, Dr. Massey is an adjunct professor at the University of Minnesota. He also holds a Doctorate in Education Policy and Administration from the University of Minnesota, along with a masters degree in educational psychology.

The next step in the process will be to move forward on interim superintendent contract negotiations. The Board will take formal action to approve a contract at an upcoming meeting.