As Dr. Michael Thomas began his fourth year in recent weeks as Superintendent of Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools, his mantra for the new year includes the phrase "growing to succeed." As the leader of close to 8,600 students and 1,300 staff members, he was excited for the first day of school, despite the challenges faced by the district that include major budget cuts and restructuring that will be put into motion throughout this school year and the next. While he acknowledges his disappointment in last fall's rejection by voters of the proposed 10-year operating levy, Thomas said he totally supports the democratic process. He said local voters have spoken, and it's time to move forward with...