NDVS/SB Houseparent
NDVS/SB is somewhat of a second home to Dietrich Schlichtmann. He attended short-term programs at the School throughout his K-12 education and, with his friendly and outgoing personality, got to know the entire staff, from the houseparents to maintenance. So, when he was finally old enough to become a houseparent, he jumped at the chance. For the last few years, he has found himself back at one of his favorite places in Grand Forks during STP weeks, only this time he’s got a lot more responsibility. Luckily, he knows what really makes a difference when he’s working as a houseparent: the connections he makes with the students and adult clients, just like the ones he made with staff when he was a student that had a lasting impact on him. Another plus? Dietrich is good at math, which makes him a huge asset in the evenings during student weeks. “He will sit with students and work step-by-step so they can understand the concept,” NDVS/SB Houseparent Supervisor Erin Storhoff explains. Find out more about Dietrich by reading on.
Tell us about yourself.
I am from Hillsboro, ND, but I currently live in downtown Grand Forks. My parents are Lee and June Schlichtmann. Besides working at NDVS/SB, I also work at Grand Forks Central High School as a resource para. I have also worked at Camp Omega in Waterville, MN, and for Traill County, ND.
What are your hobbies?
In my free time, I like to be in plays and listen to music, I’m a big fan of board games and cards and dice, and I’m very supportive and involved in my church. I have been in several plays over the past 15 years, including one in Oregon.
How did you end up as a houseparent at NDVS/SB?
I started at NDSB as a student, and when I decided (at the age of 10) I was going to UND, I knew I wanted to work as a houseparent. I have been a houseparent since February 2019. As a houseparent, I am responsible for the safety and wellbeing of the students, adults, and guests who attend short-term programming weeks. Most of what I do is interact with students, help with homework and supper, and whatever the evening activity is. I am usually there when Delta Gamma or other groups volunteer to spend time with students. This past year the UND Swing Club has been teaching the students line dances. I have been at NDSB a very long time. I think ultimately what keeps me around is the people I work with – the students and adults, teachers, other houseparents, and everyone else I get to meet. It’s also a stable job with flexible hours.
Is there anything you think people would be surprised to learn about NDVS/SB?
I have a few tidbits about NDSB.
- Both NDSB and the School for the Blind in SD have an annual meet-up for goalball in late winter/early spring. High school and middle school students stay for a few extra days, then either SD travels here, or our kids go to Aberdeen to play some friendly goalball. (Editor’s note – You will often find Dietrich working as a line judge or ref at these goalball tournaments!)
- I was a part of the group of students that pushed for the current Golden Guides mascot.
- There is a ghost in the building. His name is Bob and lives in the VRC; the VRC is unsettling after 9:00 p.m. when you are by yourself.
If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a houseparent, reach out to Erin Storhoff (estorhoff@nd.gov, 701-795-2716) or Cindy Williams, Student Program Coordinator (ckwillia@nd.gov, 701-795-2704).