Letter to the Editor

Lack of due diligence at Northland Pines  in hiring hockey coach is concerning

To the Editor: 

Following the successful 2025-2026 season, the Northland Pines School District (NPSD) girls hockey program initiated a search for a new head coach for the 2026-2027 term. 

Despite receiving only three applications, the district interviewed only two candidates. The third applicant, who possesses 25 years of coaching experience including a previous high school head coaching role, was excluded from the interview process. 

Extensive documentation of support from former and current players, community members, and coaching colleagues was presented on this individual as well. In response to inquiries regarding the exclusion of this highly qualified candidate, the district alleged a failure to meet specific criteria, including the development of a positive team culture, fostering accountability, and maintaining effective communication with athletes and families. 

The committee asserted that their recommended hire better exemplified these standards. However, the committee concurrently acknowledged that they did not consult with the coaching staff who served alongside the interviewed candidates during the previous season. 

This apparent oversight in due diligence is concerning. 

It is difficult to reconcile how a candidate with extensive experience and community support was disregarded while others, whose prior professional conduct from the previous season reportedly did not meet the committee’s benchmarks, were given preference. 

Furthermore, reports indicate that former school District Administrator Scott Foster explicitly stated he would not facilitate a fair interview process for this candidate. 

When subjective biases and internal politics supersede professional qualifications, the primary detriment is felt by the student-athletes and their athletic goals. This situation appears to reflect broader systemic issues within the district’s hiring procedures. 

I encourage all applicants, no matter the role, who have been denied interviews by NPSD to request formal transparency regarding the justification for such decisions. 

I wish to extend my gratitude to the two board members who expressed concerns and sought clarification following my public comments. 

If the NPSD motto is “Truth and Honor,” it is reassuring to see these principles upheld by some members of the board. 

Sincerely, 

Tara Senter 

Eagle River