The Returnees: Why Norsjö Became Our Place on Earth

The teaching couple Tomas and Mackarena Lindmark Cisterna have remained loyal to their professions and to Norsjö School for 20 years—with a six-year break in Umeå. A positive work environment, a strong sense of community, and local engagement in the Norsjö area contributed to the couple’s decision to return from Västerbotten’s regional capital and university city.

Mackarena and Tomas began their life together when they met during their teacher training at Umeå University. When they graduated in 2006, it was difficult to find teaching jobs, which led them to seek opportunities in Norsjö Municipality. Tomas, who grew up in the village of Svansele, saw the advantages of being close to family, and there was also a certain tax reduction on student loans.

Ten years later, they moved back to Umeå, as their desire for friends and city life remained. But in 2020, they chose to return to Norsjö.

What made you come back?

“A number of factors. We had children and needed a larger home. We also felt far from family during the pandemic. In Norsjö, we could afford a bigger house instead of a smaller and much more expensive one in the city.”

“Our former employer had also stayed in touch once a year, trying to lure us back with permanent full-time positions,” says Tomas.

The couple made a list of pros and cons of moving back to Norsjö and concluded that the advantages outweighed the drawbacks.

“Good housing, a friendly community, a rich association life, and a good municipal swimming school influenced our decision,” says Mackarena.

Life flows smoothly in what they describe as the best everyday life imaginable.

“We haven’t said we’ll never move again, but right now we’re happy with our life in Norsjö. Today, I walked with my son, Walter, to school—it took eight minutes at his pace. That’s everyday luxury,” says Tomas.

Professional Development at Work

In Norsjö Municipality, there is a clear ambition for the teaching staff to be fully qualified, and the school ranks highly in national comparisons.

“Those who want to further develop their skills have good opportunities here,” says Tomas, who has seen several colleagues enter the school world—as substitutes or in other roles—and eventually become certified teachers.

There is a strong willingness, both among management and colleagues, to view development as a win-win for everyone.

For the employer, there is a low risk of a bad recruitment when someone already works well within the team. And for those who pursue further education, there are job opportunities to move into.

“I’m currently studying remotely to become a guidance counsellor,” says Mackarena, who, in addition to her role as a primary school teacher, also works part-time as a firefighter in the rescue services.

There are many ways to contribute to society in a small municipality.