Shakopee School Board approves new HR director

Shakopee Valley News

On Monday, the Shakopee School Board approved Keith Gray to take over the director of human resources position for the district.

Gray’s contract starts July 1.

School Board Chair Scott Swanson said Gray was ready to take on the challenges the school district is currently facing.

“He seems unfazed by some of the rocky waters that we are going through right now,” Swanson said during the meeting. “He’s going to be good for us.”

Gray currently is the director of human resources for North St. Paul-Maplewood-Oakdale School District. School Board Co-Chair Angela Tucker said he worked in that district for 18 years.

Assistant Superintendent John Bezek worked with Gray for nine years at the North St. Paul-Maplewood-Oakdale School District.

“He has a steady hand,” Bezek said during the meeting. “He’s very good to work with.”

Gray holds degrees from Western Illinois University, Illinois State University and the University of Iowa. He will be replacing Scott Hare, who left the position for Mankato Public Schools.

“I have brought a high level of professionalism, compassion, problem solving and creativity,” Gray said in the news release. “I am dedicated, committed and determined to bring that same excellence to Shakopee Public Schools.”

Several members of the school board said they were impressed with Gray’s experience, dating back to 1988.

“I think he’ll bring some best practices and innovation and we are looking forward to seeing what he can do,” School Board Member Matt McKeand said.