Principal Looks Forward to Port's 'Hometown' Feel

Recently chosen as the , Michael Thomley said he and his family look forward to the move back to Wisconsin.

"The overall reason (I wanted the job here was) the community and people we met years ago when visiting Port Washington," Thomley said in an e-mail. "The Port Washington community has the 'hometown' feel we want to raise our kids in. We liked the local people. The school district and community offer the academics and activities my wife and I want for our kids."

Thomley was born in Georgia and raised in Wisconsin.  He began his education career as a teacher in Hudson, WI. He has a bachelor's degree in elementary education from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, and a master's degree in teaching and learning from St. Mary's University of Minnesota as well as a master's degree in adminstration from UW-River Falls.

He and his family are halfway around the world, where he is working as the director of instruction at QSI International School of Chengdu in China.

Thomley said his time in China has provided unique experiences.

"I think our whole family has stories to tell — over time we will share more," he said in the e-mail.  "One I can share is how to drive.

"Imagine for a minute a school of fish. All the fish are swimming together mostly going the same direction. But, if you are in the middle of the school and wish to make a turn to the right — what do you do? Simply put, the fish will turn and the others will avoid bumping into it.  No blinkers, no warning — just turn and others will dodge you.

"... Driving a vehicle here is like swimming in a school of fish.  Do what you want as long as you don't bump into the other vehicles. We had many white knuckles from our nervous experiences."

Thomley officially takes his post in the Port Washington-Saukville School District on July 1.

"I am looking forward to working with the wonderful students I met during my tour of the building," he said. "Many students welcomed me and incorporated me into their activities.  I am looking forward to working with the parents and staff to continue the success already established in the district."