ALDEN — The new full-time principal at Alden-Conger School has started meeting staff and learning his way around the school.

Brian Shanks will be the new principal for all grades kindergarten through 12th-grade. He hails from Truman Schools where he’s been for the last 21 years.

“My wife and I wanted to try something different,” Shanks said.

His youngest son recently graduated in the spring, so they thought they’d look for a different experience. Shanks taught high school math for 17 years in Truman, and then was the K-12 principal for four years.

“It was a good fit for us,” Shanks said.

Shanks is originally from Pine Island. He received his bachelor’s degree from St. Cloud State University and his master’s from Minnesota State University, Mankato. Shanks got his principal licensure at St. Mary’s University.

So far this summer he’s been meeting with staff and getting acquainted with how the new system will work. Previously the school had a full-time superintendent, Joe Guanella, who also served as principal. The school now will have a part-time superintendent, Marty Duncan, who will handle finances.

“I’m meeting as many staff as I can and getting ready to go,” Shanks said.

Shanks said he enjoys being a principal at schools with all grades because he’s always enjoyed teaching older students but also enjoys the excitement of younger students.

“They’re almost always happy and excited to be in school,” Shanks said.

He said he’s familiar with the Alden-Conger district because they play Truman in sporting events, and he’s always been impressed with the district.

“The student body is growing — there aren’t many small schools that can say that,” Shanks said. “People here must be doing something right.”

One of his broad goals will be to improve test scores, which he said is a goal of every school.

“I want to make sure students who come to Alden-Conger receive the best possible education,” Shanks said.

As soon as their home sells in Truman, Shanks said he and his wife plan to move to the Alden area. For now he’s commuting and said the staff has been welcoming and that he’s ready for the school year to begin.

“I’m excited to be here,” Shanks said.