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. 

ISASP Testing Begins This Week!

School is filled with excitement as we begin the final quarter. The season is tightly scheduled with activities, Prom, and other end of the year traditions that make the time go by quickly.

Yes, we are having a great time and continuing our strong academic focus. Next week is an important time for our students. They will take the ISASP assessments. These tests help us understand students' progress, pointing to areas where we can adjust instruction. The results are also used for state reporting and performance profiles.

The staff works hard to create a conducive testing environment that is calm and supportive. There are a few ways you can help us prepare your child to feel ready. A good night’s sleep, arriving on time, eating a healthy breakfast at home or at school, and encouraging a positive mindset can make a difference.

Some students do experience test anxiety, and it can be overwhelming. You can help your child by reassuring them that anxiety is a normal and legitimate feeling, but it is not an indicator that they are unprepared. Encourage them to make a strong effort, use calming breathing techniques, and manage their pacing while taking the assessments.

Students with ADHD are very capable learners, but testing periods may become challenging as they require sustained focus and time limits. The pressure can make it hard for them to remain calm and organized. There are some things that can be done at home that can be helpful. A short walk, a little stretching, or a bit of exercise can be beneficial before school. It can help with self-regulation and attention. Preparing the night before reduces stress and makes a difference in how the day goes (clothes and backpacks ready).

There are a few tried-and-true testing strategies that benefit all students. You can find these on numerous websites and AI tools, but it is the same list…they work.

• Reading directions twice
• Eliminating obviously wrong answers
• Breaking the test into chunks
• Checking pacing at natural stopping points

We appreciate your partnering with us to support your child and help them do their very best on their assessments. Together, we’ll finish the year strong.

Positive Budget News and Next Steps

The District held its first public budget hearing this week, and the news was positive. The tax levy will be lower for the FY27 school year, and the income surtax was reduced as well. These are the kinds of announcements that are always well received by the public and taxpayers, and ones we are proud to share.

Achieving this outcome required a great deal of internal dialogue, thoughtful planning, and a clear commitment to being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars. Doing so in a year like this was especially important, as supplemental state aid came in lower than what most school districts need to maintain operations.

This was the first of two required public budget hearings. A second hearing will be held in April prior to the budget being finalized.

I appreciate the school board’s diligence and commitment to maintaining a strong financial position so we can continue to deliver a high standard of education for our students.

Where Hearts Bloom and Minds Grow Together

Every week at Shenandoah Community School District, I’m fortunate to walk the halls of our schools and witness the small, beautiful moments that remind me why this work matters. A student proudly shares a piece of artwork in the hallway. A teacher kneeling beside a child who needs a little extra support. A student stepping onto the stage for the very first time, their confidence blooming in real time. A child rushing over to introduce you to their family. A staff member volunteers to create something special simply because it will brighten a child’s day.

These may not be newsworthy storylines, but they exemplify the heartbeat of our district. They remind us that teaching and learning are deeply emotional, and that the human element of education can never be diminished. In Shenandoah, we educate hearts as well as minds.

Over the years, I have learned that these moments reflect the climate and culture of our school community. They grow out of a culture built on relationships, care, and compassion. It is a culture where staff make a difference for our students. Behind every special moment are special people who lead with their hearts. Their acts of kindness and belief in our students create the support students need to invest themselves in learning.

Student families and our wider community are essential to this learning environment. Our district benefits from support that helps us succeed. Our partnership strengthens all we do and ensures students are surrounded by those who believe in them.

I am grateful to everyone who fosters this culture of care and proud of how our staff builds a place where hearts bloom and minds grow together.

It Takes Grit

I am extremely proud of the outstanding achievements our students made this weekend. Their hard work, dedication, and talent shone brightly across a variety of activities. From fine arts to athletics, our students represented Shenandoah with excellence.

Success like this does not come easy. Many people have strong talent, but it is grit or the willingness to work, persist, and push through challenges that sets exceptional performers apart. Our students have spent countless hours developing their skills, accepting feedback and applying it to their craft, and trying “just one more time.” It all made a difference, and the results are truly impressive.

Academically, this same principle applies. Students who excel in the classroom build strong discipline and study habits, devote extra time to deepen their understanding, and challenge themselves with more difficult tasks. Just like in activities and athletics, growth comes from effort and a strong commitment to continuous improvement.

Budgets: A Long Intentional Process

Working on a school budget is never just an accounting exercise. Over the past several weeks, I’ve spent ample time working on the annual budget. It is a lengthy process, and each year it reminds me how multifaceted this work is and how intentional it must be. While it is a familiar exercise that often begins with attending a budget workshop to review required steps and forms, it quickly becomes a much larger conversation and strategic decision‑making process. Every decision made during this process affects students, staff, and the long‑term direction of our school system.

The process starts with taking note of what is working well, what changes may be needed to better meet the needs of students and staff, and which commitments are already locked in. Many of our largest expenditures, including personnel, are essential to the quality of student learning experiences. It is also important not to underestimate the need for well maintained facilities and up to date technology, both of which support innovative learning environments and contribute to the safety of students and staff.

Enrollment trends are another critical component of budget planning. Enrollment has a direct impact on the amount of supplemental state aid a district receives, making careful analysis essential. Larger shifts in student numbers can influence staffing levels, class sizes, and transportation routes, whether enrollment is increasing or decreasing. While this may sound straightforward, enrollment changes are rarely isolated to a single grade or program. Instead, they tend to be spread across multiple grade levels and services. Some programs may have low enrollment but are required to meet accreditation standards, making them essential components of the academic program that must still be funded. This creates a delicate balancing act between meeting student learning needs and maintaining fiscal responsibility.

Evaluating existing programs and considering areas for expansion are also important parts of the budget conversation. Fresh and innovative programs can have a significant impact on student learning environments. At the same time, every addition or expansion must be carefully weighed against available resources and long term sustainability.

Throughout this process, there is a compelling question that all schools should wrestle with, “how do these decisions best serve student learning today while strengthening our future?”

We are currently engaging in these important conversations, and priorities are beginning to take shape. Budget drafts will be presented to the School Board this month to meet public reporting requirements and to hold the public hearings outlined in Iowa Code. At the same time, there is continued uncertainty as we await confirmation of the level of funding that will be provided by the state.

The budget process is long and intentional, and it is not without challenges. However, it also presents an opportunity to develop a sustainable plan that supports our learning community not only this year, but in the years ahead. The time and effort invested in this work are well worth it.

AI is Not A Passing Trend

I had the opportunity to attend a conference on artificial intelligence (AI) in education this week.  For a long time, I’ve cautiously dabbled with AI, but I’ve never fully embraced it. This conference opened my eyes. I left with a new appreciation for how AI can create efficiencies in the workplace and help educators personalize learning, provide timely feedback, and differentiate assignments to support a wide range of student abilities.

AI can boost efficiency and productivity by streamlining processes and procedures that are normally quite time‑consuming, such as automating tasks, developing schedules, creating documentation, and retrieving information. Frankly, AI can do far more than I can even begin to describe in this area. There are many tools to consider, and we are looking into options that make sense for our setting.

Some of our staff have already used AI tools to develop professional documents, research content, and create instructional plans. A few months ago, the district took a major step by investing in an AI powered reading assistant and learning agent for fifth and sixth grade students to increase student literacy levels and achievement. This well‑researched tool, created by Carnegie Mellon, listens to students read and provides feedback on fluency, decoding, and comprehension. While Amira does not replace the need for a teacher, it extends their reach and ability to support a wide range of student learning needs.

AI literacy is becoming an increasingly important skill for both staff and students. AI is advancing rapidly and is infused into many aspects of our daily lives. We need to teach students how to use AI to maximize their learning potential and prepare them for success in a fast‑paced professional landscape.

Am I ready to throw caution to the wind and let ChatGPT dominate the entire academic arena, stopping students from learning to write or master mathematics? No, I am not. I am prepared to consider how we can use tools such as ChatGPT and others in an ethical, responsible, and critical manner as part of preparing students for their future success. We need appropriate boundaries and protocols in place to help students use AI to amplify their learning rather than misuse this powerful technology.

It is critically important to approach AI with caution and intentionality. We need to protect personally identifiable data and recognize that AI is not always accurate. These are necessary policy conversations that must be addressed as we use AI more in educational settings. Some of these discussions may be challenging, but it is important that we have them and put in place appropriate safeguards.

AI is not a passing trend, it is a powerful tool that is changing how we learn, work, and participate in education. We need to approach it responsibly, with clear expectations and policies to avoid potential pitfalls, while also embracing what AI has to offer. The purpose of AI in education is to enhance and maximize student learning and create efficiencies across our operations. And we must remember that, in addition to learning content, education is about communication and relationship building. Human interaction remains one of the most important aspects of what we do, whether students attend in person or online. The goal isn’t to replace teachers or diminish the value of essential skills; it is to prepare students for their future, knowing AI will be part of their daily lives.

 

 

Connections, Relationships, and Kindness

As we approach the next few months, we are surrounded by many religious, non-religious, and cultural celebrations. The season is also a wonderful reminder of the connections and opportunities we have to create memories with family and friends that last far beyond today. 

The nostalgia of the season can be meaningful, and honestly, many "golden" traditions and practices are simply for fun. As for me, I have spent years attempting to master the art of having a beautiful Christmas tree, but the fact remains that my sister’s and mom’s decor makes mine look a little whimpy. Still, it isn’t the tree that really makes the season bright. While I am not quite willing to stop working on making my tree shine, I do recognize that there are many opportunities to connect with people, build relationships, and be part of a community that will create lasting memories.

Sometimes, the stress of planning every detail can get in the way, so I hope you will take some time to avoid the busyness, let go of perfectionism, and simply enjoy the holidays and be present in the moment. Look around, find ways to engage, and reach out to others who may be trying to find some joy in the season. No one experiences the holidays in the same way, and they do not need to be a Hallmark moment to be worth celebrating! 

Whether it is reading a book to a child, playing a board game, sledding down a hill with friends, having a great conversation, volunteering together, attending a school activity or concert, or taking time to enjoy a meal together, these activities add to the richness of the celebrations and experiences. Taking time to journal or make a list of things you are grateful for is also a great way to shift your mindset when things do not seem to go quite as planned.   

While we are all unique in how we celebrate, let’s come together to build relationships, show kindness, and be generous in thought and deed this season. Kindness is a beautiful gift to give. 

Well wishes to you this season!

Planning Ahead & Winter Weather Updates

As we wrap up the first quarter and head into the winter months, we’re already planning for next school year. To help you prepare, the 2026–2027 district calendar is now available. Please use it to plan vacations, family events, and personal schedules well in advance.

 2026-2027 School Calendar

Weather-Related Schedule Changes

We’ve already experienced one late start due to fog, and as winter approaches, please know that every decision regarding cancellations, late starts, or early dismissals is made with serious consideration for the safety of our students and staff. 

While we strive to make decisions the night before, changing weather patterns and unpredictable storms sometimes make that impractical. Please plan ahead for days when cancellations or delays may occur.

What Announcements Mean

• 2-Hour Delay:

• All school activities, breakfast, and classes (including preschool) start two hours later than normal.

• Buses will arrive two hours later at designated locations.

• School Closed:

• There will be no school, no activities, and no preschool for the day.

• Early Dismissal:

• You or your emergency contact must be able to pick up your student from school or care for them at the bus drop-off.

• The district cannot provide childcare on these days, so please plan accordingly.

How You’ll Be Notified

• School Messenger: You will receive a call if you have signed up.

• If you have blocked text messages for other notifications, you will not receive weather alerts.

• Local Media: KMA typically posts updates on its website.

• District Social Media: Please refer to Shenandoah Community School District’s Facebook and Instagram accounts for official announcements.

• Important: The ShenBuzz feed is not a district account and should not be relied upon for accurate information.

Please keep in mind that our staff faces the same weather conditions you do, which means offices may open later and phones may not be answered immediately during severe weather.

Thank you for your understanding and flexibility as we prioritize safety during the winter months.

Let's Be the Support

Support comes in many forms. And sometimes, it looks like a can of soup, a box of cereal, or a warm pair of socks.

Our local food pantry is a lifeline for families facing food insecurity, and right now, they need us. Whether it’s a small donation or a full grocery bag, every contribution makes a difference.

Let’s be the support our community needs. Let’s show up with generosity and action. 

Here are some especially useful items:

Non-Perishable Food Items
Canned vegetables (green beans & corn) and fruits
Canned soups and stews
Peanut butter and jelly
Pasta and pasta sauce
Rice and boxed meals
Brownie, cake, or muffin mixes
Microwave popcorn
Cereal and oatmeal
Dry milk, canned milk, or shelf-stable milk
Cooking oil
Canned tuna or chicken
Instant potatoes
Au gratin or scalloped potatoes
Coffee, tea, or hot cocoa mix

Personal Care & Household Items
Toilet paper
Toothpaste and toothbrushes
Soap and shampoo
Feminine hygiene products
Laundry detergent
Dish Soap
Diapers and baby wipes

Seasonal Needs
Warm socks, gloves, and hats  (Clean)

Drop-off Location:  Each School Building
Deadline: Nov 12, 2025

Together, we can make sure no one in our community goes without. Let’s be the support.

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.

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!