Huettner receives NRCSA honor

After receiving the NRCSA Outstanding Board Member honor, Ralph Huettner repeats his belief that "it's all for the kids."

Former District 56 School Board member Ralph Huettner was presented with the 2009 Outstanding Board Member Award at the Nebraska Rural Community School Association Spring Conference. The presentation was made on Friday, March 27, in Kearney. NRCSA represents 200 K-12 school district and Educational Service Units.

Huettner was honored for serving on the Falls City Public Schools Board of Education for 24 consecutive years, having been elected six times. After not running for re-election, he retired from the board in January.

The award was presented in front of over 300 board members and superintendents from around the state. The "surprise" honor was made in front of his wife Pam; his three daughters, Jennifer with husband Brad, Brandi, and Danielle; and grandson Trace.

"He will be the first to tell you that it is work to become a 'good board,'" said Superintendent Jon Habben in his nomination of Ralph, "followed by consistent effort to stay a 'good board." He added, "Everyone on the board has to become a part of that team energy and effort, as no one individual is the board."

Speaking about Huettner's dedication to the board in her nomination, Board President Kathy Bartek said, "When I think of the word [service], I think of this board member. Not only for the work he's done for the school, but also for his dedication to our local veterans, our country, and town."

Ralph had been "invited" to the conference to be an award presenter, but found himself at the podium instead. In his acceptance, he stated that "it's all for the kids." Ralph's 24 years of elected service and his vision of a team approach led to the honor.

This award has been presented to one board member each year since 1987, making Ralph the 22nd recipient of the honor.