Come Celebrate Homecoming

This past weekend, I had the joy of attending a family wedding in my hometown, a truly delightful time. It was more than just a celebration; it was a reunion filled with laughter, storytelling, and the rekindling of relationships with extended family, lifelong friends, and those who knew me in a different chapter of life. It felt like a true homecoming. 

And speaking of homecoming—this week, Shenandoah is buzzing with excitement! A full slate of events is planned, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re an alum eager to reconnect, a community member looking to join the festivities, or simply curious to see today’s students shine, there’s no better time to be part of it. Come celebrate and be part of the vibrant spirit of Shenandoah in full bloom.

A Closer Look at Performance

As Iowa continues to refine its educational accountability system, it’s time to take a closer look at how Shenandoah schools are performing.

The 2025 Iowa School Performance Profiles reveal both strengths and areas for growth across the district. Each of our schools—except the high school—maintained its overall rating, as outlined in the chart below.

We are proud to celebrate the high rates of proficiency in math and reading at the high school level, which were recognized by both U.S. News & World Report and the Iowa School Performance Profiles. The graduation rate and work-based learning index are additional areas where the high school excelled. However, the overall rating was reduced to “acceptable” because we did not achieve sufficient growth in core academic areas across all student subgroups. This is an important distinction and highlights a key area where we must focus time and resources to support staff and help students improve their performance.

The elementary school continued to demonstrate growth and proficiency in reading and math, which helped them maintain their commendable rating. While the middle school’s rating remained unchanged, it showed improvement in overall performance, increasing by more than 11 points. Additionally, more middle school students demonstrated adequate growth and achieved proficiency in math.

IGNITE experienced a significant increase in student enrollment throughout the year and maintained its rating. This can be challenging because students enter at different times of the school year. The school continues to show strength in graduation rates and work-based learning opportunities.

Now that the results and data are available, the staff will need to take time to look beyond the surface and take meaningful steps to improve. Shenandoah is well-positioned to do this work, and I have complete confidence in our staff. I am looking forward to engaging in this work with them and seeing the positive outcomes for our students.

Routines, Character, and Continued Progress

We’re now two weeks into the school year, and it’s been a strong and steady start. Students and staff are settling into their routines, classrooms are buzzing with learning, and the energy across our buildings is positive and focused.

It’s been exciting to attend student activities and witness the enthusiasm and pride our students bring to everything they do. They are already demonstrating the kind of character and discipline that will pay dividends throughout the season.  

I was very impressed and pleased to note the number of students who were honored this week for  receiving an academic letter for the 24-25 school year. Their commitment to excellence is inspiring, and it’s clear they are building habits that will serve them well both now and in the future.  

Behind the scenes, we’re wrapping up several summer construction projects. These improvements are part of our ongoing commitment to maintaining safe, well-kept, and functional learning environments. As we finish this phase, we’re evaluating our facility plan, reviewing the budget, and beginning to map out the next level of work needed to keep our buildings in top shape.

We’ve also received questions about the transition to the WIC conference. Recently, we heard from Tom Keating, Executive Director of the IHSAA, that the State Committee will not issue a response until the draft rules are approved by the State Board of Education in January. This places us in a holding pattern until their work is finalized. However, we are taking a proactive stance by planning to meet with the WIC Board of Controls at the end of September to discuss the timeline and entry plan. This preparation will ensure we’re ready to respond once a decision is made.

Thank you to our staff, students, and families for making the start of the year so successful. The momentum is building, and we’re excited for what’s ahead!

 

 

Reflecting on the First Week of School

As we conclude the first week of school with students, I want to share how wonderful it has been to visit classrooms across every building in our district. The teachers are exceptionally well-prepared; there is a welcoming tone throughout each school. Our students have arrived eager to learn, connect, and yes, have a little fun too. 

One of the highlights this week was the Preschool Open House, which saw a fantastic turnout. It was rewarding to see so many families excited to begin their educational journey with us.  

Across all grade levels, I’ve witnessed moments of curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. From dynamic discussions to hands-on activities, it’s clear that our staff have worked hard to ensure a meaningful start to the school year.  I have great respect and admiration for the work our staff is doing to lay the foundation for a successful school year. 

Also, I’ve been overwhelmed with gratitude for the incredible generosity shown by our local businesses, community groups, and volunteers. Their support has made a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and families. 

From donations of school supplies to sponsoring back-to-school events and even offering free haircuts, the outpouring of care and commitment has been a strong encouragement for our students and staff. These acts of kindness send a powerful message to our students that they are valued and supported by our community.  

A heartfelt thank you to Mortensen, Pella Corporation, SMC, Fareway, The Mill, Getting Snippy, the Shenandoah Iowa Education Foundation, our PTO, dedicated parents, and all the volunteers who stepped up to help. Your contributions have made a real impact, and we are deeply grateful.  Schools value partnerships like this because we cannot do the work alone. It takes all of us together to make a difference. 

 

WIC or Hawkeye 10: A Defining Moment for Shenandoah

Shenandoah has officially received an invitation to join the Western Iowa Conference (WIC)—it is an opportunity that deserves serious consideration. This isn’t a new conversation. In fact, discussions about a potential move to the WIC have been ongoing for several years. My blog posts have addressed this before. Now, with a formal invitation in hand, the decision is becoming very real.

We’ve taken important steps to be open with the community and ensure transparency in the decision-making process. Some steps taken include the following:

• Notified the Hawkeye 10 Conference and our staff that we had received the invitation to join.  The School Board was also informed of the importance of the decision at hand and the timeline to make the decision. Additionally, press releases were sent to KMA, KCSI and the Southwest Iowa Herald.

• Held meetings with coaches, parents, and community members. There have been discussions with Red Oak CSD in an effort to collaborate. Additionally, we have met with members of the Hawkeye 10 to discuss how this decision affects the conference and their school. 

Some have asked why we would consider moving to the WIC.  There are some reasons such as the enrollment similarities. The WIC schools are more similar in size to Shenandoah, which could lead to more balanced and fair competition. It won’t guarantee more wins, they may offer a better fit for our athletic programs. 

Others have asked why we should stay in the Hawkeye 10. There is no question that the Hawkeye 10 is a highly respected conference, and being a member is a point of pride. There is a long tradition and many rivalries that are desirable to maintain. The conference is competitive and well run.  Tennis and Bowling are not available in the WIC conference. If the decision is made to move to the Hawkeye 10, the district will need to schedule non-conference schools to support those teams and athletes. We have nice tennis courts and a bowling alley that make it a desirable location for other schools to want to compete in Shenandoah, but scheduling outside of the conference will be a different way of competing. It is possible to do, and it is something that is being taken under advisement in the decision-making process. 

Both conferences  have excellent schools and strong programs. This decision isn’t about right or wrong—it’s about what’s best for Shenandoah’s future. The WIC has given us an August 1 deadline to respond to the invitation to join the conference. The School Board will take action on July 21st. It’s essential to note that even if the board decides to move to the WIC conference, the WIC schools must still formally accept Shenandoah into the conference.  A decision has not been made—but it is a serious opportunity in front of us and is not likely to be repeated. There is strong merit in having the conversation.

Enjoy the Pause and Well-Deserved Break!

On the last day of school, some students rush out the door and others linger a little longer to say their goodbyes. But when the last bell rings, a hush and stillness flood the school. There are moments of reflection, joyful reasons to celebrate, and sweet anticipation about the goodness of taking a good, long break.

As I reflect, I recognize the academic growth our students have made and the personal development and social maturity they have attained. They have worked diligently to achieve and acquire knowledge, but they have also had experiences and made good friendships.  I am proud of their accomplishments and will have fond memories of being with them this year.

The teachers have demonstrated dedication and, at times, self-sacrifice to ensure they provided their students with the support and caring concern needed. They have taught lessons, answered questions, designed engaging projects, allowed opportunities for students to retake assessments, worked through challenges, and celebrated their students' successes.  There is great gratification in bringing the school year to an end. I hope they will take the opportunity to rest and recharge for the next.

Parents and caregivers have been a solid support and the driving force behind the scenes. They have managed their children's schedules, checked in on and helped with assignments, communicated with staff, and provided encouragement and support in countless ways.  It may not be as visible in the hallways of a school, but it is felt and appreciated.

So, as we end this school year, let's encourage each other to celebrate the joyful moments, successes, and friendships. Our learning community has grown in ways of great importance.

Enjoy the pause and well-deserved break!

Innovative, Impactful and Supportive

When I think about my childhood and young adult years, I have fond memories of teachers who were incredibly talented at their craft, innovative, and expressed care and concern for their students. They not only taught me the foundational academic skills, but also helped me to gain the confidence I needed to pursue my educational and career goals. They made a profound impact on my development and were supportive as I emerged into my adult life. Their influence continues to resonate with me, and I am better for spending time under their leadership.

It was recently announced that Mrs. Lundgren, a science teacher and student council advisor at our high school, was a recipient of the Charles E. Lakin Award, which is awarded annually to teachers in Southwest, Iowa. Mrs. Lundgren is an exceptional teacher and person who is most deserving. It was an honor and my privilege to be on stage as the announcement was made for two reasons. Firstly, her response was one of humility and appreciation as the nomination narrative was read. Secondly, I was able to watch the reaction of her students and colleagues at the same time. It was abundantly apparent that they were in agreement: Mrs. Lundgren makes a difference and makes a profound impact on their lives.  

Mrs. Lundgren is one of many teachers on our staff who are extraordinary in their dedication and commitment to education. They are innovative, impactful, and supportive; they create an environment like none other. They make Shenandoah Community School District a special place for our students, the kind of place where fond memories are made.

Innovative, Impactful and Supportive