don_hainlen.jpgDr. Donald Hainlen

Director

dhainlen@blueskyschool.org

Where do you live?

I live in Chatfield Minnesota, which is near Rochester. I was formerly the Superintendant of the Chatfield School District and happen to be the current Mayor of Chatfield.

Why did you become an educator?

I chose to be an educator because I am passionate about 'kids' and believed that I could make a positive difference in their lives during these important developmental years.

Why did you choose BlueSky?

BlueSky is unique in its model and approach. And I want to help the school reach new levels and become a leader in online education that other online and traditional schools look to as an example of educational success.

What do you think makes BlueSky special?

BlueSky has a unique student body that needs flexibility in each individual's approach to learning. BlueSky is able to deliver that flexibilty while maintaining unmatch student contact and support. We hear from students and parents all the time that they receive more contact and help from BlueSky teachers and staff than at other online and traditional schools.

What do you like to do when you’re not working at BlueSky?

I enjoy golf, fishing, gardening and performing music.

If there were one thing you could tell people about BlueSky, what would it be?

BlueSky gives students new opportunities to achieve their dreams.

Experience

I have spent more than 36 years working in public education in various parts of Minnesota. I have been a teacher, a principal and a superintendent.

Education

  • B.S., Music Education, St. Cloud State University
  • M.A., Music Education, University of Minnesota Minneapolis
  • Specialist in Education Administration, St. Cloud State University
  • Ed.D Education Policy and Administration, University of Minnesota Minneapolis
  • Licensure: K-12 Music All, Elementary Principal, Secondary Principal, District Office