Retiring Novak Principal Has Treasure Trove of Memories (and Several Fans) After 18 Year Stint

Novak Elementary teachers, students and families are in for a change.

Principal for 18 years, Joe North is retiring, effective July 31. North has been with the district as teacher and other roles since 1975. Carol O’Donnell has been appointed to be the next principal.

We will have an interview with O'Donnell in the coming days.

North sent a letter to families announcing his retirement.

“I have countless fond memories of my time at Linn-Mar that will keep me smiling for years to come. I have had the opportunity to meet many wonderful students and families. I will treasure those friendships and those memories.”

On the Novak Facebook page, the PTO posted a letter noting the surprise of the earlier than expected retirement but also the love for North.

"We know that many of you have a lot of questions regarding his retirement, please know that he has made the choice to spend his time with his family and start enjoying his retirement a little earlier than planned! We wish him the best and hope that retirement brings them all many great memories!"

And, parents like Matt Collins shared their fondness for North.

"I only had a child in Novak for one year but could tell Joe was the best principal in this area," he wrote. "Always outside helping out with traffic and said Hi to me every time I came in the building."

The school board accepted the resignation last month, and Superintendent Dr. Katie Mulholland the district is "grateful for Joe’s 38 years of service to Linn-Mar.”