Assistant Superintendent of Schools Jim Koster is retiring tomorrow after 19 years of service to your Novi Community Schools, and his will be big shoes to fill. You see, this is one man who was very, very good at his job; and it showed.

Many times over the years, we've asked the school for information, numbers, or accounting figures. Jim always came through, and not only did he deliver, but he made sure the information was understandable.

Many people know accounting. Those who can explain it to others really know accounting. Jim is one of those rare individuals.

Often times, Jim was called upon to make a presentation, live on TV, in front of a crowd, during a Board of Education meeting. Not an easy thing to do - especially for an accountant. But Jim always came through, and when he was finished things actually made sense.

We the People are pleased that Jim Koster has served as our school's business and operations boss for the past 15 years. He is one of the many reasons we have such an excellent school system.

Thank you, Jim, for your years of service, for ensuring excellence in all you do, and for taking care of Novi's schools so well. And best wishes on your retirement too!