Creating Clear Pathways for Student Success

Looking ahead, I see significant opportunities to strengthen pathways that help our students transition seamlessly into postsecondary learning opportunities and meaningful careers. Achieving that goal, however, requires us to think differently about school, our systems, and the way we work. If we genuinely want to advance and improve how we support students, we must be willing to continually evaluate whether our practices are producing the outcomes we want for students.

It is easy to find reasons not to change. We tell ourselves that change is hard, that it takes time, that it may require added resources, or that it could mean letting go of practices we have long valued. Yet our responsibility is not to preserve what is comfortable, but to continuously improve in ways that better serve students and prepare them for success beyond graduation.

To move this work forward, we must also take the time to clearly articulate and communicate the learning opportunities available to our students, families, staff, and community stakeholders. While high quality opportunities already exist, that work can sometimes become blurred as students and families navigate multiple flyers, handbooks, websites, and other communication channels. Developing clear, comprehensive guiding documents that name and organize these opportunities is an important first step in featuring the high quality work already taking place across our district.

As we look to the future, some of our next steps include creating accelerated pathways in core academic areas, implementing cluster grouping practices to ensure students are challenged and supported at the appropriate levels of learning, and integrating new technologies and tools that bolster teaching and learning. This includes thoughtfully using AI as a tool while keeping high expectations for academic integrity and ethical use.

 Our students will be better prepared and experience higher levels of success in postsecondary learning, the workforce, and their chosen careers if we make an intentional effort to bring clarity to the opportunities that exist and the pathways available to access them. Our goal is to build a system that not only supports the immediate needs of our students but also develops their problem-solving abilities, fosters creativity and innovation, refines analytical and critical thinking skills, cultivates collaboration, and strengthens their ability to communicate ideas effectively. These are critical competencies, and along with academic achievement, will allow our students to navigate the challenges of tomorrow and thrive in the future.

Celebrating Tradition, Strengthening Community

Homecoming is a special tradition that brings people of all ages together. It is a celebration of school spirit, community, and the memories that are made along the way. This year is especially exciting, as Shenandoah is also celebrating Shen Fest this weekend, adding even more energy and excitement to the Homecoming celebration.

The week will be packed with activities and excitement for everyone. From big home games and the annual parade to a community meal, the SIEF Golf Tournament, and the Homecoming Dance, there is truly something for all ages to enjoy. The lineup of activities at Shen Fest only adds to the excitement, offering great music, children's activities, a pancake breakfast, and a fly-in.

Homecoming and Shen Fest are also reminders that strong schools and strong communities do not simply happen on their own. They are built by people who get involved, invest their time, offer support, and make connections. While it can sometimes feel like the same dedicated individuals are carrying the load, we cannot grow tired of the effort. Instead, we should continue inviting and welcoming new people to help with effort and to become part of the proud traditions that make Shenandoah a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family.

Homecoming and these traditions also remind us that community is not something we can take for granted. The time, talents, and resources we invest today help shape the future of Shenandoah. One of the simplest ways to make a difference is to offer a smile, welcome someone, and invite them to be part of what is happening. Those small acts of kindness, inclusion and connection help strengthen our sense of belonging and create a solid foundation for the future.

Whether you're participating as a current student, staff member, family member, alum, volunteer, community leader, or cheering from the sidelines as a member of this great community, this week offers many opportunities to celebrate school spirit, reconnect with friends, make new connections, and appreciate all that makes Shenandoah the place to be. 

Strong Schools are Built by Strong Communities

Ask any superintendent or school leader what they value most about the district they serve, and they'll likely mention outstanding staff, a strong administrative team, sound finances, parental involvement, and an effective school board. Each of these factors are part of a successful school district. But just as important, and often at the very top of the list, is the community

Educators know that strong schools are built by strong communities. When communities support their schools, opportunities for students expand and everyone benefits. Students who are better prepared for post-secondary learning and entry into the workforce. The partnership between a school district and its community is a strong indicator of long-term success. It is the people in the community who step up at the right time, to support the school when it is needed most, that make a difference.

I am grateful to be part of a community that believes in investing time, talent and resources to ensure we can provide a safe, efficient, and effective learning environment for our students and staff.  The support demonstrated by our community fosters an environment that allows us to experience success today that will continue in the future.

Vote September 8th - PPEL: Renewal

  PHYSICAL PLANT AND EQUIPMENT LEVY RENEWAL

VOTE ON September 8, 2026

On September 8, Shenandoah voters will consider renewing the district's Physical Plant and Equipment Levy (PPEL). This is not a new tax and would allow the district to continue funding facility maintenance, transportation, security, and technology needs.  

 More PPEL Information

The election for the renewal of the Shenandoah CSD voter approved Physical Plant and Equipment Levy (PPEL) will be held on September 8, 2026 from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The following is a list of frequently asked questions about the levy.

What is the Physical Plant & Equipment Levy (PPEL)?

The Physical Plant and Equipment Levy (PPEL) is a voter-approved levy that serves as one of the primary revenue sources for funding school infrastructure and equipment repairs, purchases, and improvements.

How does the passage of the PPEL affect me?

PPEL is NOT A NEW TAX for the Shenandoah Community School District, the renewal of this levy does not increase your property taxes. It authorizes the district to continue to use the voter-approved rate that has been in effect for many years so that we may continue to use the funding in our maintenance and upgrades plan.

Can the PPEL fund be used to offset shortages in the district’s general fund or used to pay staff salaries?

No, the PPEL revenues cannot be used for salaries, textbooks, or new educational programs. The requirements for the use of the PPEL funds are very specific in nature and are limited by what is outlined in Iowa Code. 

What are some examples of how the PPEL fund has been used?

PPEL funds have been used for technology hardware and infrastructure; purchasing school transportation vehicles including buses and vans; maintaining and improving school grounds; building maintenance such as carpet, windows, concrete, and shop equipment.

What are some examples of how the PPEL fund will be used in the future?

PPEL funds will be used for continued HVAC upgrades at the K-8 and High School buildings, parking lot and sidewalk repairs, floor replacements in the High School and K-8 building, bleacher replacement in the High School gym, internal door lock upgrades in all buildings, bus and district vehicle replacements, computer replacements, and digital classroom displays.

What is the difference between the Physical Plant and Equipment Levy (PPEL) and the State One Cent Sales and Service Tax Fund?

For Shenandoah Community School District, PPEL funds are used predominately for maintenance, vehicle, and technology purchases; and the State One Cent Sales Tax is used for the district’s revenue bond payments.

 Why a special election?

State law requires a vote to renew this levy every 10 years.

PPEL was established in Iowa, in the early 1990s. Shenandoah first voted in-favor in 1998 and has since renewed twice with the last being in 2017 with 81% approval.

 

 

Welcome Back Mustang Families and Friends!

It has been a great summer, but I am more than ready for the school year to begin.

I enjoy the summer break for several reasons, but one of my favorite things at this time of year is seeing the campus begin to fill with staff who are intentionally working to design their classrooms to maximize student learning and seeing them reconnect with their colleagues. It is even more rewarding to see students start flooding the campus as activities and athletic seasons begin. The energy, excitement, and sense of community that return with the start is very motivational.

This summer, we spent time improving several aspects of our communication with students, staff, and families by implementing a new communication platform, ParentSquare. The app allows you to receive and view messages from the school while giving you control over how and when you receive them, either instantly or in a daily digest delivered at the end of the day. The app will also update district-owned social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Please keep in mind, we do not post official school communications on other social media sites, so if you want accurate information about school, you will want to use the ParentSquare app. Your invitation to join ParentSquare has been sent to your email.

We also unveiled a new website this summer. While the web address remains the same, I think you will be pleasantly surprised by its new look and improved design. The site is much easier to navigate, making it simpler to find the information need.

Next week, our staff will participate in professional learning sessions while preparing for students to begin classes on August 24. I am especially pleased to welcome Dr. Kindra Weston and four members of her team on Monday morning as they share their expertise with our staff through a presentation and panel discussion. This opportunity to learn from experienced mental health professionals will provide valuable insights as we begin the new school year together. I greatly appreciate their willingness to support, encourage, and inspire our staff as we continue our commitment to meeting the needs of every student.

Open House is scheduled for August 20 at 5:00 p.m. at each of our schools. I would like to extend a personal invitation for you and your family to attend this event and connect with the teachers and staff who will be working with your children throughout the school year. We also have several new team members joining our district, and I am excited for you to have the opportunity to meet them. Attending the Open House is a positive way to build relationships and become familiar with the people who will be working with your children.

I am excited about the start of the school year and hope you will take the opportunity to connect with our staff at Open House. I look forward to seeing all that we can accomplish together in the months ahead. I am confident it will be a successful year.

Make the Most of It

The school year is coming to an end this week, and summer break sounds like a dream come true.

It’s been a full and successful year filled with chances to learn, get involved, try new things, and spend time with friends. There’s a lot to feel good about and much to celebrate. But even in a year full of good moments, we all need a chance to hit pause.

Summer gives us that chance. A chance to take a well-earned break to reset and do things a little differently. Perhaps it’s time to take back control of our busy schedules and give ourselves permission to slow down. Take a longer walk, enjoy a family meal, teach your kids something new, or simply have a long overdue conversation.

Summer is about recharging, but also about exploring. It’s a chance to try something new, spend more time with the people who matter most, and say yes to experiences that bring joy. Whether that’s traveling, working, spending time outdoors, or simply slowing down, there’s value in all of it.

While I’ll continue working this summer, I’m also looking forward to a little extra time with my family, my dogs, and diving into a few books I’ve been meaning to read for far too long. Those small moments are often the ones that help us come back refreshed and ready for what’s next.

So take this time. Enjoy it. Make the most of it.

A Few Thoughts for Our Graduates

Graduates, I’d like to share a few thoughts I have learned from others over time.

I know you have spent many years in school hearing advice from teachers, family members, and mentors. Still, I invite you to take a moment to truly reflect on these words as you move forward.

First, take time to understand how your past has shaped you, but do not stay there. Let your experiences guide you, not define you. Continue to listen, learn, and grow through the relationships you build and the opportunities you embrace.

Second, pursue your dreams, passions, and career goals with purpose. Commit to a strong work ethic and take pride in your efforts. Have a plan, but remember, Plan B is not a sign of failure. It is preparation. It is resilience. It is wisdom.

Third, lead with compassion. Be kind, even when others are different from you. Care for those who may be struggling, and support those in need. Empathy and understanding are not just admirable traits; they are strengths that will carry you far in life.

Finally, embrace the responsibility that comes with adulthood. With greater freedom comes the need for solid decision making. What feels easy or exciting in the moment is not always what is right in the long term. Surround yourself with people who will guide you, encourage you, and challenge you to grow into your very best self. 

I trust you will carry these thoughts with you as you move into this new era of your life.