“I’ve always valued creating relationships and to treat everyone kindly, fairly, and with respect”. Those attributes are evident in the pathway that led Principal Sellenheim to this leadership role today.
After receiving his BA degree at Carroll University in Waukesha, Wisconsin, he went on to earn his Master’s Degree in Education Leadership & Policy Analysis at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The first eight years of his career in education included band direction and teaching at K-8 schools. He then served as Assistant Principal and Principal for the past eight years prior to joining Mill Creek.
“I’ve worked with wonderful people who have given me experience and insights and my passion to build-up others comes from a very genuine and real place”, says Sellenheim. The fact that he’s helped grow small programs into strong, successful programs is a natural outcome of his relationship-building skills.
“I’ve worked in schools with a diverse population, and often challenging circumstances, and I know how important it is to feel included, welcomed, and cared about.” He adds, “I know that the kindness you extend gets returned many times over.”
At Mill Creek Academy, Principal Sellenheim is looking forward to creating a strong and successful academic environment for all students. He says new schools don’t come along often and wants every student, parent, teacher, and staff member to soon say, “we were part of this at the very beginning…look at us now!”
Beyond the academic tools and resources extended to every child, he wants to set them up with an inquisitive mindset to carry them into the world beyond. “We want children to solve problems today and grow into adults that seek out new solutions for tomorrow.” This all plays perfectly into the culture that integrates the Moral Focus virtues within every National Heritage Academy school with academic and personal success.
He often ends his public address announcements to students with “If no one has told you yet today that they love you…I’m saying I love you.” If this is any indication of the fabric he’s weaving into this new building — Mill Creek Academy is destined to have a strong foundation.
A few things about Principal Sellenheim
- Family is his greatest accomplishment. He has two daughters (ages 8 and 6) and has been married to his wife Elaine for 16 years.
- He enjoys swimming, biking, running and family trips.
- He is a lifelong music enthusiast (Music Education degree) and volunteers in his church choir.
- And yes, he’s an avid Packers fan!