Hello! I’m Tim Truebenbach, the Superintendent at Big Lake Schools. It is an honor to be selected as a Face of Big Lake! Since taking the role as Superintendent, I have quickly come to love this community. I work with some incredible people who have a focus on educating and serving our youth and their families. I also have been fortunate to get to know others, outside the schools, as a member of the Big Lake Lions, working on the Big Lake Substance Prevention Coalition, and becoming an active member of the Big Lake Chamber of Commerce – among other things. All of this has allowed me to truly see what a wonderful city this is and how much people care about one another, their community, and their schools. I look forward to continuing to get to know many of you in the future!
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
My wife, Alisa, and I have been married 25 years. We met in 6th grade and became high school sweethearts. Alisa is the glue that keeps all of us together! We have 4 kids. Lily -24 – is a dance instructor and choreographer. Chole – 23 – is a senior at Carlton and will graduate with an Environmental Science Major. Henry – 20 – is a sophomore at St. John’s University and he is studying International Business Management. He also is a football player and runs track. Lainey -17 – is a senior at Milaca Highschool and runs track and performs in theater. She will be attending Minnesota State Mankato and would like to be a Special Education teacher.
Q: How long have you lived and/or worked in Big Lake?
I have worked in Big Lake for 3 years.
Q: Tell us about your current, past, or future career.
I graduated from St. John’s University and started teaching 1st grade and eventually 5th and 6th grade in Melrose. I then became the Assistant Principal and then Principal at Melrose Alternative Learning School. From here I became the Principal of Isanti Middle School and then moved into the Director of Learning at the District Office of Cambridge Isanti. I spent 5 years as the Superintendent at Milaca until I took the role of Superintendent in Big Lake 3 years ago. I enjoy getting involved in the Big Lake community and recently joined The Lions in September. I also am active with the Big Lake Chamber of Commerce and yes, I did jump in the frozen lake at United We Shiver. I love being involved in and attend as many school events as possible.
Q: Have you ever had a nickname? What is it and why were you given it?
Yes! Little Truby. My dad was the OG, my brother was Big Truby and I became Little Truby. I was also called Big Scoop, a nickname I received from Matt Wade.
Q: What is your favorite TV Show, Movie, Book? (Please list as many as you’d like!)
I enjoy Yellowstone, Peaky Blinders, and the podcast – KFAN Outdoors.
Q: If you could only eat one food/meal and have one beverage for the rest of your life, what would it be?
It would be pizza and coffee.
Q: What are some of your favorite hobbies or pastimes?
I love cooking, specifically, smoking meat. When I have time, I love being outdoors. I used to hunt but now spend time fishing, both ice and open water. Traveling is another hobby I would like to be able to do more. We got the travel bug after visiting out daughter in Italy. Community theater – which is something I get to do with my daughter – in an all time favorite for me and I would have to consider exercising a hobby too!
Q: What is one thing on your bucket list?
I want to take my wife on a river cruise in Germany. With the last name Truebenbach, we need to spend some time there! I would also like to do a guided elk hunting trip.
Q: What would you buy/do if you won the lottery?
I would create scholarships and foundations for various school districts to support our youth. It’s important to me that I would be able to give back. I would also take ALL the trips! One would be a cruise around the world. I would get a decent truck and of course, I would set up my family and their businesses.
Q: What has been a challenge you have had to overcome? (Life, School, Work, etc.)
Alisa and I started our family immediately. I was in grad school and working 3 jobs and Alisa was basically on her own taking care of our family. Even though it was hard work, it reminds you to appreciate what you have and I wouldn’t trade any of it for the world. Another challenge was taking a new job as Superintendent during Covid. It’s important to my to get to know and communicate with staff, students, and parents. We had to make some adjustments and come up with more creative ways to do this – like the video series where people could actually see me. At the same time, my dad passed away from cancer so it all felt a little like the perfect storm.
Q: If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
If I could change something, I would have healthier habits.
Q: Who has been a hero in your life?
My dad – hands down! I looked up to him since I was little. He was a city councilman, teacher, and coach.
Q: What is something even your family and friends may not know about you?
I’m an introvert! I can be very social and out-going but I get my energy and rest from quiet time. I have also been in multiple musicals and sang bass in a professional acapella group called Kinsmen.
Q: What is your proudest accomplishment?
My kids. I am so proud of them and they are amazing human beings. They are each unique, have great insight and I love being able to have adult conversations with them. They all are incredible and 100% of the credit goes to my wife!
Q: What are a few of your favorite businesses / restaurants in Big Lake?
Ember Coffee, Lake Cafe – their open faced beef sandwiches are a favorite for lunch – and Trails.
Q: What is one of your favorite things about Big Lake?
The people. Everyone has been kind, welcoming and so many will offer grace when it’s needed.
Q: What advice would you give to people living in Big Lake?
Get involved to make connections in the community. Don’t be shy with one another and simply stop to say ‘hi.’
Q: Who is an interesting person in our community that you’ve met and deserves to be included in The Faces of Big Lake project?
Teresa Smock-Potter – she is an amazing team member. and Amber Sixberry – she is my go to for many things.
