Thursday, February 17, 2022

Introduction and Action

Over the past several weeks, the Shenandoah Community School District has been advertising and interviewing applicants for the High School Principal position. I was very pleased with the number and quality of the applicants that applied for the position. While the process took time, I found it rewarding to work with everyone involved. The feedback from the staff, students, and parents about the interviews were insightful and extremely valuable. 

Andrew Christensen was hired as the new High School principal effective July 1, 22. Mr. Christensen and his family will be joining us from Fort Calhoun, Nebraska where he serves as the Athletic Director and Assistant High School Principal. He graduated from Dana College and earned his Master's degree in Educational Administration from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. It is a bit of a bonus that he hails from Neola, Iowa, and attended Tri-Center Community School District. He has a strong focus on forming staff and students relationships, connectivity, communication, and understands the need to focus on continual improvement.

You can read more about Andrew Christensen on KMA's website here.

Our construction trades program is really off to a good start working on the house that was purchased with the intent of renovating the property. It is an exciting adventure and yes, there is a lot for us to learn. The team that has worked on the project has met on a regular basis. They used good judgment to set up a team of professionals to serve an advisory committee to help guide the process. Cindy Larson, a project manager, from CA Nelson, met with the students and staff last week to share her expertise in project management and planning construction.  The students and staff are also excited to work with Clint Wooten on Friday to talk more about design and floor plans. Tapping into their expertise will deepen the learning and improve the quality of the work. The Shenandoah Iowa Education Foundation provided some grant funds to provide tools that are necessary for construction. I am inspired by the efforts of our students, staff, and community to make this project come together.

Getting Started

Consulting On-Site

Sheridan Ave Property

Students in Action


















Emerging Leaders

Tyson Ratliff Focusing on school culture and climate and building relationships is critical. Staff members who feel supported are more incli...