Taking Time for the Conversation

The weather is turning, and it is unbelievable to me that we are now at the end of the first academic quarter. There is much to celebrate. Our students have done well, and that is a happy thought. Students and staff have settled into their routines. Classroom environments are becoming more comfortable and familiar, which, in turn, builds confidence in our students.

This week, we were pleased to welcome so many of you to school for parent-teacher conferences. While conversations about grades, academic plans, and schedules are essential, it is truly a delight to connect with students’ families. Shared conversations build relationships, foster understanding, and help teachers and families work together to support students and maximize their academic and social development. That is why we set aside time for these conversations. It’s about creating a partnership between home and school.

It’s been a great start, and we’re excited for what’s ahead. Thank you for your support and for taking the time for the conversation. It makes all the difference.

Honoring Our Principals During National Principals Month

October marks National Principals Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the dedicated leaders who work diligently to shape the culture, climate, and success of our schools. As I reflect on my years in education, I’m reminded of the exceptional men and women I’ve had the privilege to work alongside. Each one brings a unique leadership style, but they share a common trait: a deep care for students, a commitment to staff, and a passion for supporting education.

I’m proud to work with the principals in our district. They are committed leaders who often sacrifice their personal time for the betterment of our students, staff, and community. Their leadership is valued and is immeasurable.

Please join me in celebrating:

• Jordan Newberg, Elementary Principal
• Luke Buttry, Middle School Principal
• Tyson Ratliff, High School Principal
• Denise Green, Principal of IGNITE Online and Personalized Learning School

To Mr. Newberg, Mr. Buttry, Mr. Ratliff, and Mrs. Green—thank you for your leadership. You make a difference. I applaud you and appreciate you.

It Takes All of Us

In our district, every student deserves to feel safe, valued, and supported. Bullying and harassment have no place in our schools, and we remain committed to fostering a positive school culture and climate.

To strengthen these efforts, we’ve welcomed Chris Chamberlain as our new Peer Relations and Bullying Prevention Coordinator. Mr. Chamberlain is currently teaching a middle school rotation class focused on peer relations and bullying prevention, coordinating events across the district, and investigating complaints in a fair-minded manner. He has also partnered with M.A.Y. Mentoring to organize several events this month, including an upcoming student assembly featuring Terrence Talley, a nationally recognized speaker.

We are excited about the momentum building around this work—but it cannot be done by one person or one program alone. It takes all of us.

As adults, we must model the behaviors we want to see in our students. That means demonstrating respectful interactions, resolving conflicts constructively, and being mindful of the power of our words. Words can build up or tear down. We must choose to use them to make a positive impact. When we witness bullying or harassment, we need to speak up, offer support, and take reasonable action to protect students.  

We are also proud to offer Project HOPE, which supports students’ mental health needs, and grateful to SIEF for providing financial support to train our staff in best practices for prevention and response.

Let’s commit to doing this work together.

Critical Education Appropriations Our Schools Need

As a longtime superintendent in Iowa and advocate for education, I’ve witnessed the growing challenges our schools face. Shifting demographics, declining enrollment, rising inflation, and mandated increases to teacher salaries have placed immense pressure on district budgets. Additionally, in recent years, the Iowa Legislature has missed the legally required deadline to set Supplemental State Aid (SSA)—leaving school leaders without the clarity they need to make responsible, student-centered budget decisions.

When school leaders advocate for funding, we are frequently—and rightly—asked: “How much is enough?” My response is simple but essential: What kind of education system do we want Iowa schools to provide? What do we expect our graduates to know and be able to do? What is the maximum the state can afford to invest in that vision? And what other priorities must be addressed across our state?

These are honest questions. They are the foundation of responsible policymaking.

If we want students who communicate effectively, think critically, and solve problems—with the skills to succeed in today’s workforce—our funding must align with these goals. Preparing this generation requires more than traditional academics; it means prioritizing access to technology and digital literacy, fostering an understanding of international systems and challenges, and supporting social-emotional and brain health.

Our schools must offer a relevant curriculum that includes strong early literacy programs, robust math and science education, comprehensive mental health supports, and opportunities for career exploration and pathways to earning industry-recognized credentials. Curriculum that encourages innovation and inquiry-based learning is essential to help students develop the creativity and adaptability needed in today’s world. This is a different learning environment—and it demands a different level of support.

Now is the time for Iowa to commit to a bold vision for education—one that meets the needs of today’s learners and recognizes the rapid pace of change in the workforce and technology. Schools need adequate, predictable, and on-time funding, along with the flexibility to innovate and respond to local needs. Our students deserve an education system that prepares them to lead, contribute, and thrive.

As we prepare for the upcoming legislative session, it is crucial that we keep at the forefront what truly matters for education. Let’s engage in respectful conversations with our legislators about what we value, what is important, and what our schools and students need to thrive. Let’s make our voices heard—and ask our legislators to take timely action to provide the critical education appropriations our schools need.