MADISON — The Association of Wisconsin School Administrators has named Matthew Raduechel as its 2022 Wisconsin Associate Principal of the Year.
Raduechel serves as associate principal of John Muir Middle School in the Wausau School District. During his four and a half years at the school, he has focused on student safety and wellbeing. He helped to create and build the school’s BRIDGE behavioral intervention program, designed to assist students in moments when emotions and behaviors can disrupt their learning. Raduechel has also become a certified restorative practice trainer through the International Institute of Restorative Practices.
Another key area of focus for Raduechel and the John Muir staff has been ensuring students are receiving an equitable and diverse educational experience. A middle school “house” model has allowed students to feel at home with a small group of teachers. Additionally, the social-emotional curriculum “Leader in Me” has been embedded throughout the school day to help students develop their own personal leadership skills.
“We are very pleased to recognize Matthew Raduechel, an associate principal who works tirelessly to ensure students have access to the social-emotional tools and equitable practices to learn in a safe and positive environment,” said Jim Lynch, executive director of AWSA. “Throughout his time at John Muir Middle School, Mr. Raduechel has demonstrated an ability to identify the most pressing student needs and address them through evidence-based practices. This award is truly a reflection of his tremendous work and representative of the outstanding work done by associate principals throughout the state every day.”
Raduechel holds a master’s degree from Marian University and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. He is now pursuing a doctorate degree from Edgewood College.
“On behalf of our entire school community, I would like to congratulate Mr. Raduechel for this outstanding recognition from AWSA,” said Patrick Galligan, principal of John Muir Middle School. “His work over the past several years has been truly impressive, and he has proven himself to be a skilled school leader who is always learning and growing professionally. I thoroughly enjoy working with Mr. Raduechel each day and am thankful for his service to our students, staff and families.”
“On behalf of the Wausau School District, I would also like to congratulate Mr. Raduechel,” said Dr. Keith Hilts, Superintendent of Schools. “Mr. Raduechel’s dedication to advancing student learning, achievement, and success makes him a valuable asset to our students and families in the district. Furthermore, he’s a great leader. Over the past several years, Matt has led the implementation of several culturally responsive and student-centered efforts that have improved the culture and climate of John Muir Middle School. We are proud to have him on our team.”
The Associate Principal of the Year Selection Committee includes representatives from the Association of Wisconsin School Administrators, the Department of Public Instruction, the Wisconsin Association of School District Administrators and the Wisconsin Association of School Boards. Considerable support comes from the Meemic Insurance Company.
Raduechel will be formally recognized at the Associate Principals Conference in January 2022 in Green Bay. He will also receive $1,000 for use on a project of his choice at John Muir Middle School. Additionally, Raduechel will represent the state of Wisconsin at the National Principals Conference, where the 50 Associate Principals of the Year from across the country will be honored.
Raduechel was presented with the 2022 Wisconsin Associate Principal of the Year award during a surprise ceremony at his school on Thursday, November 11.
