Mueller is new Director of Teaching and Learning
BHM Schools is pleased to announce that Dr. Cynthia Mueller will become the district’s new Director of Teaching and Learning on July 1.
Dr. Mueller, who has a history with BHM Schools and a background in administrative and curricular leadership, will step in for Pam Miller, who is retiring after 22 years in the role.
At present, Dr. Mueller serves as a Principal on Special Assignment and District Literacy Specialist for White Bear Lake Area Schools. She was also an elementary school principal for White Bear Lake Area Schools from 2017-23.
She began her career as a kindergarten teacher in Pocatello, Idaho, in 2003, then came to Buffalo as an elementary teacher in 2005. From 2011-15 she served as a STEM Curriculum Integration Specialist for BHM Schools, and she became a Program for Professional Development Coach for BHM Schools in 2015 before taking the principal position in White Bear Lake two years later.
While evaluating candidates, the hiring committee noted that Dr. Mueller had a strong desire to return to BHM Schools and build on the leadership experience she gained both locally and in White Bear Lake. Particularly valuable attributes include her prior work in literacy and in coaching others to improve their instructional practice. The committee also appreciated the importance Dr. Mueller places on relationships and collaboration, the way she creates conditions for others to succeed, and her commitment to the growth and development of students and staff alike.
Dr. Mueller earned her undergraduate degree in elementary education from the College of St. Benedict in 2003. She added a master’s in literacy education in 2012, her administrator’s license in 2016, and her Doctor of Education in Leadership in 2025, all from St. Mary’s University.
Members of the hiring committee noted that she is “authentic, approachable and collaborative,” and are excited to welcome Dr. Mueller back to BHM Schools this summer.
“Returning to Buffalo-Hanover-Montrose Schools feels like coming home,” said Mueller. “BHM truly was ‘the place to dream, believe, and achieve’ in my own career journey, and the support, opportunities, and relationships I experienced here helped shape me as both an educator and leader. I have always admired the district’s strong commitment to students, collaboration, and continuous improvement, and I am excited to return in a role where I can partner with staff, students, and families to continue strengthening teaching and learning so all students can dream, believe, and achieve.”
