Principal's Message
Join me in the Journey!
Greetings from Countryside! I am Karen Bergman, and I am one of the newest additions to the Countryside Elementary School family. I am thrilled to be the Principal at Countryside and I am truly honored to be a part of this wonderful school. Change brings opportunities for new learning, and I am excited to learn more about this great place.
I believe that we are all learners, and we should constantly strive to learn new things and to reach new heights with that learning. I also believe that it is much more fun to learn together. I have discovered many things since joining the staff in Edina, but one of the most important things I’ve learned is that this district and our Countryside Elementary School is very special. Our students work hard to be the best they can be. They are achieving at high levels and they are growing emotionally and socially. In addition, every staff member cares deeply and contributes to creating the very best learning environment for our students. And finally, our Countryside families support and guide us as we learn together in this special place. With all of us working together, we will become even better! We truly are a community of learners.
I began my learning in higher education at St. Cloud State University, where I became an elementary school teacher. Since becoming a teacher, I have held many positions in education and have learned a great deal from each experience. Those experiences include:
- Grade 4 teacher – 3 years, in my hometown of Brookings, SD
- Grade 5 teacher – 9 years, Farmington Area Public Schools
- Director of Curriculum and Instruction – 5 years, Farmington Area Public Schools
- Principal – 5 years, Meadowview Elementary School, Farmington
- Principal – 4 years, Akin Road Elementary School, Farmington
- Principal – July 2011, Countryside Elementary School, Edina – the beginning of a new learning adventure!
I have to admit that the role of Principal has been my favorite so far because I learn so much from our students, staff and families every day!
When I am not at school, my husband and I enjoy spending time supporting the dreams of our children – our twin boys. One son is a Chef/Culinary Student in New York and the other son is in the Professional Golf Management program in Colorado.
I invite everyone to be a part of our learning community at Countryside. Join us, learn with us and support us as we continue this important journey!
Karen Bergman, Principal
karbergman@edina.k12.mn.us