Brad Bergstrom could soon step down as Austin High School Principal and take a different role with the Austin Public Schools District.

By no means is the decision official, but Bergstrom is eyeing a position as the district’s human resources director, Superintendent David Krenz confirmed Thursday afternoon.

Current Human Resources Director Mary Burroughs recently turned in her resignation to take a position in Bloomington, and the board approved her decision at a November meeting. She will vacate the position on Nov. 30.

Krenz said he and advisers often look to fill positions from within the district, and Bergstrom — who has been AHS principal since 2005 and assistant principal before that — would be a good fit in HR.

Bergstrom

“Brad’s name was brought forward,” Krenz said.

While at first glance the move may look like a step down, it’s something Bergstrom has wanted to do, Krenz added. The HR position aligns more with natural duties of a superintendent, which Bergstrom someday hopes to become.

“You don’t just get opportunities like this just based upon you as the individual,” Bergstrom said. “It’s the structure of people around you.”

Bergstrom said it has been no secret that he has wanted to become a superintendent somewhere, someday. The HR position would be the stepping stone.

“Brad has looked at a goal to be a superintendent,” Krenz said, who added transitioning to HR would be a natural thing for Bergstrom.

“The opportunity to be in HR will give me a lens and a view that is more in line with what a superintendent has to do,” Bergstrom added.

Some district staff received emails about the potential change, but much has to be done if it is going to happen. The Austin Public Schools board will have to put the issue on an upcoming agenda, approve Bergstrom’s hire as HR director and more.

Krenz said the board could approve the hire, but a new principal would have to be in place. If the district doesn’t find a principal, Bergstrom will remain in that position.

“Brad might remain as principal,” Krenz said. “That’s why we haven’t made an official announcement.”

Krenz didn’t mention any potential candidates for principal, but said the district is taking applications. Krenz and District Finance Director Mark Stotts will share HR duties for however long that position remains vacant. Bergstrom thanked the administrative staff for creating the opportunity, but added it wouldn’t be possible without great teachers, students and support.

“I would be lost without them,” he said. “I really want to thank them, too.”

However, if a change doesn’t immediately take place, Bergstrom is content to remain principal and said he still loves the job, and especially the students.

“From 7:55 a.m. to 3 p.m., the kids in this building are my kids, almost 1,300 of them,” he said. “And I want them to get a great education.”