Froemming to retire from school position he redefined

The Port Washington-Saukville School Board on Monday approved the retirement of Jim Froemming, who is credited with expanding the role of director of business services from that of essentially an accountant to second in command of the district. 

Froemming’s retirement is effective Dec. 31.

“When we were hiring for this position, we knew we needed someone who could expand the role of director of business services,” Supt. Michael Weber said. “We specifically looked for someone who could do that and, most critically, develop strong relationships with our staff.

“As the years went by, Jim did that and made the position what it is today.”

A former math teacher, Froemming was hired in 2002 for what has been his only job in school administration.

He credits his background in teaching for his success in administration, especially in the areas of human resources management and hiring. As a member of the district’s hiring team, Froemming said, he has been guided by a commitment to hiring and retaining the best educators.

“I’m an educator first, and to be able to offer a little different perspective in my job and be part of a process to hire and retain the best people has been rewarding,” he said. “I do miss the classroom, so to be able to find the best people to put there has been great.”

Froemming took the lead on reducing the district’s debt and building its reserves and helped oversee large projects, in particular those financed by the $49.4 million referendum approved in 2015 — a $3.8 million addition to  Dunwiddie Elementary School and the $45.6 Port Washington High School project. In addition to overseeing financial planning for the projects, he played a key role in overseeing construction work.

“Jim was not only my right hand man during the construction projects, he was out in front as needed,” Weber said. 

Froemming also played a key role in the district’s efforts to provide laptop computers for students long before online learning took on the importance it has today.

“That put us in a better position to deal with things we never dreamed of at the time, things like we’re dealing with now,” he said. 

Froemming, 59, said his retirement plans include some consulting work, spending time with his family and golfing. 

Like other retirements and resignations, his departure should be seen as an opportunity for the district, Froemming said. 

“We look at every opening as an opportunity,” he said. “I hope I’ll be missed, but for reasons other than not having a great person in my position.”