Meet the Principal

Samuel Court, Principal

“Education is the key to unlocking the world. It is the passport to freedom.” - Oprah Winfrey

Court is honored to be back atTalahi Community School as the principal. With a passion for education that spans four generations of his family, Court brings 19 years of experience working in schools across four different states. His diverse roles have included teaching grades 2 through 6, implementing Title 1 interventions, and integrating STEM education. Court holds fond memories of his time teaching at Talahi from 2013 to 2016. Prior to his current position, he served as a principal in a neighboring district for six years and briefly acted as an interim superintendent.

Court pursued his undergraduate degree in elementary education at the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire. He furthered his education by earning a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas. In addition, he has completed coursework in teaching English as a Second Language at Kansas State University and also holds a 6th-year certificate from St. Cloud State University for his principal and superintendent licenses.

As a proud resident of St. Cloud, his two sons attend 1st grade and 3rd grade in St. Cloud Area School District. His wife is a professor at the College of St. Benedict and St. John's University. During his leisure time, he enjoys activities such as running, camping, fishing, grilling and cherishing moments with his family. Don’t hold it against him, but he is an avid Green Bay Packers fan. 

Court is deeply committed to fostering strong connections with students, families and the community. He believes in open communication and collaborative partnerships to create an inclusive and supportive educational environment. He looks forward to working closely with all stakeholders to support the growth and development of every student at Talahi Community School.

Carl Burks, Assistant Principal

Carl Burks is honored to be the assistant principal at Talahi Community School. He has had a successful history of being an assistant principal, director and educator for more than fifteen years in an “A-rated” school district. Burks has served across a variety of public educational programs. 

Burks was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. He attended Arizona State University where he received his master's degree in educational leadership. During his free time, he loves spending time with his wife and daughters. He also enjoys fishing, hiking and going to the lake.

"It is a deep honor to serve and support our school community. I am committed to working collaboratively with our staff, families and community to ensure a safe and productive learning environment."

Thank you for choosing Talahi!

Erica Boettcher, Assistant Principal

Talahi is pleased to welcome Erica Boettcher as the new assistant principal at Talahi Community School!

Erica brings 18 years of experience in education and recently relocated from Arizona to Minnesota. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Bowling Green State University and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Arizona State University.

Over the course of her career, Boettcher has served as a classroom teacher in kindergarten, first, and third grades, an academic coach, and, most recently, as a preschool director supporting a high population of students with special needs. She is passionate about building strong relationships and is deeply committed to helping every student reach their fullest potential.

Outside of school, Boettcher enjoys Disney, art, theater, the color pink, and cheering for the Cincinnati Bengals. She and her husband have four sons: Reed, River, Rhett and Remington.

Boettcher is excited to join the Talahi community and looks forward to partnering with students, families and staff for a successful school year. Please join us in giving her a warm Talahi welcome!