As you are keenly aware, my last day with AEA 267 is quickly approaching. Please consider this to be my sincere goodbye to each and every one of you.
As I retire, I do so with a mix of feelings; happy about the new phase of life that I will be entering and sad that I will be leaving so many wonderful friends and colleagues. The previous 15 years with the Area Education Agency system have been some of the most rewarding of my career. To have served as the chief administrator of an organization and system so driven to excellence has been an incredible experience.
The AEA 267 Board of Directors has secured two outstanding individuals to lead the agency beginning July 1. Roark Horn is highly respected around the state both for his leadership expertise as well as his approachability and respectful nature. Dr. Anne Sullivan will bring a wealth of experience as well as an energy well suited for the complexity of our agency. Both will hit the ground running on July 1. I encourage you to make them feel welcome and support them as they both lead you and learn from you.
1967--the year Dean received his BA degree in Math Education from the University of Northern Iowa (you gotta love the socks!)
Thank you so much for making my time at AEA 267 such a positive experience. I will remember you all with fondness.
2010--AEA 267 retirement open house with former board members and current AEA 267 board member, Darrel Lind.
Best wishes! I hope you have a GREAT retirement and are able to all the things you haven’t been able to do due to your time committments. We never did get to the horses for riding to work?:)
Dr. Meier, may I wish you a very happy retirement. Thank you for your 15 years of dedicated service to Area Agency 267. As I recall, on a couple of occasions, I greeted you at the Clear Lake Office–long after working hours. You were prepared to begin a board meeting, or were on your way to a local school district to meet with administration and boards there. It is my hope, now, that you will spend your evenings with recreation, hobbies, and whatever you would like. Best wishes to you.
Dean, you will be greatly missed by all of us in the Mason City special schools. Your professionalism and approachability has been very much appreciated.
Dean, Thank you for your advocacy. We appreciate you going to bat for us and those we serve! Enjoy your days of retirement; and remember, you are always welcome to facilitate developing our professionals.
Dad,
As a person that has been influenced by you from day one, I am very proud of your years as an educator. You have always put your whole self into what is best for your students, and the children of Iowa. You have influenced my life as a parent, and a professional. You always strove to do your best, (lists always help), but always did so with a heart of fairness, caring, and heart. I couldn’t be prouder to follow in your footsteps (except for the socks) as an educator in Iowa, or to have you as a father.
Sandy
Best wishes as you begin an exciting new adventure! Thank you for your leadership in the past years – I have always been very proud to say I work for the AEA, in great part due to people like you, especially you, leading the way. Thank you.
Dean,
It has been my great privilege to work 15 of my 20 years at the AEA with you. Your leadership, caring for all learners, and insight into the challenges of the AEA have set the bar for those who follow in your footsteps. Enjoy the next chapter of your life!
Congratulations on a job well done! Enjoy your retirement.