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Juniata Valley Magazine

Varner’s social media posts are a hit with parents and students

By Greg Williams 3 min read

LEWISTOWN - There might not be a cape or cowl, but Mifflin County School District Superintendent of Schools Vance Varner is definitely a hero to his students both past and present.

After Varner read the "Turkey Trouble" book to all kindergarten students at Lewistown Elementary School, he posted on social media about his outing.

His posts are genuine, and you can tell that he was just as excited to spend time with his adoring students as they were to welcome him to their classroom.

Varner wrote, "... The students were fabulous, and it was so nice to have this opportunity to spend some time with our students. Of course, while reading the story, we all had to practice 'sounding' like a turkey. Thanks to the students and staff at LES for a great experience this afternoon. Go Huskies!"

Teacher Beka Yoder certainly let Varner know how appreciative she and her students were of his visit.

Yoder said, "How cool is he? People have asked how Mr. Mcsd V Varner gets those pics he posts on his socials ... did you know that HE takes them (or ppl who can't pass up a pic of the Super in a turkey hat take them!)?! He visits all the schools, goes to concerts, the games and performances and anything else our students are involved in. He's invested. He's going to make a difference. And today, he was the highlight of kindergarten!!"

Yoder not only posted about the visit, but she then sent Varner the posts she received from parents. They clearly reveal their gratitude for the job he does. Here are a few parents' posts:

"I don't think you will find someone who cares more ..." - Stephanie Moon

"This got me thinking ... I don't even know the NAME of who the superintendent was when I was young. In fact, I don't even know who my principal was in elementary school, either. In middle and high school, I have no memory of seeing any principal anywhere other than behind a desk in their office. People forget how far we've come. Most of the general public has zero idea of what it means to meet a student 'where they are' and how hard teachers like you work a day to make school a safe space for these kiddos." - Andrea Mitchell Baker

"I love following alone! He most definitely cares, and I love that he highlights all the awesomeness at MCSD." - Sara Imes

"Love him and no one more deserving of this position!" - Lindsey Heider

"How often have we seen this happen in a classroom! I never did as a child or as an aide in the district." - Jody Wear

"It's been amazing seeing him in the buildings monthly!!! The kiddos are always happy to see him." - Loni Shawver

"He did a wonderful job! The kids loved it." - Becky Kehler

"This is great! I don't recall any other superintendents doing anything like this. Always checking out/in on his students. Thank you, Mr. Varner, for caring about our students." - Amanda Byler

"Actually, got a phone call from him congratulating me on an interview for another school closer to home ... he is an awesome superintendent." - Sarah Pea

"Yes, I saw him at my daughter's band competition. I thought that was awesome. Can't ask for a better superintendent." - Jennifer Bubb

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