Superintendent – Waukee, IA

Job Description

Expedited Timeline

The Waukee Community School District is seeking a superintendent to begin on July 1, 2026.  Located in central Iowa, Waukee CSD is the third-largest and fastest-growing public school district in the state. The District has an annual operating budget of $300 million and owns 662 acres of land and 3 million square footage in buildings, with the following facilities:

• 11 elementary schools
• Four middle schools
• Two ninth grade schools
• Two high schools
• Waukee CSD Natatorium
• Waukee Innovation & Learning Center (work-based learning programs)
• Vince Meyer Learning Center (preschool and Community Transition Center)
• Elevate Learning Center (high-need special education students)
• Two operations and transportation buildings
• District Office

The Superintendent acts as the District’s chief executive officer, providing leadership for the large and complex organization of 14,400 students and 2,600 staff. This person will plan for the future, build relationships across the District and community, advocate for students and staff, and represent Waukee CSD values. The District is seeking a visionary leader capable of navigating complex growth, championing innovation, and expanding its strategic vision.

The District provides high-quality learning spaces, compassionate and supportive staff, and cutting-edge programming — all with the goal of helping students find their unique pathway and prepare for the future. Waukee CSD offers all the opportunities and amenities of a large district, while offering individualized learning and support to meet the needs of every single student. A leader in academics, performing arts, and athletics, Waukee CSD has the highest Iowa School Performance Profile score of the five largest districts in Iowa and a 97% graduation rate. Additionally, 96% of Waukee CSD staff would recommend the District as a good place to work.

The city of Waukee offers a blend of strong schools, safe neighborhoods, parks and trails, and modern development. The city has grown quickly but intentionally, designed for people who want a tight-knit community and a high quality of life. At the same time, Waukee benefits from the economic strength of the Des Moines metro. Residents get easy access to shopping, restaurants, and the airport, all while enjoying a quieter suburban environment. With rising home values, a growing job market, and a strong community with a demonstrated commitment to its schools, Waukee attracts families seeking a vibrant, supportive environment to connect, grow, and thrive.  

Vision:
Inspiring learners who feel valued, challenged, and prepared to embrace tomorrow’s opportunities.

Mission:
“Waukee Community School District is a rapidly growing and increasingly diverse school district. We believe every individual’s unique background and culture enhances our schools. By focusing on the joy of learning and growth for everyone, we create a dynamic work environment for our staff while engaging our students, families, and the community through innovative educational experiences.”

Core Values:
Waukee CSD believes in…

• Keeping students a priority
• Equity and belonging
• Developing people
• Integrity
• Joy
• Inclusivity
• Innovative problem-solving

For more information, visit the Waukee CSD website.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree
• Holds Iowa superintendent licensure (or plans to obtain licensure) 
• Holds an evaluator approval certification (or plans to obtain licensure) 
• 3 years of district-level leadership experience
• Experience working closely with a school district governing board
• Successful completion of state and federal criminal background checks & abuse registry clearances 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Doctoral degree
• Willingness to reside and be engaged in the district and communities
• Strong school finance acumen and stewardship 
• Experience with growth and facilities management 
• Demonstrated experience with large-scale bond referendums  
• Excellent communication skills with a broad range of stakeholders 

Most valued leadership qualities, as identified by a recent stakeholder survey:

1. Student-Focused: Prioritizes a student-centered environment with high expectations for learning and growth
2. Advocacy: Advocates for public education and for the best learning experience for students
3. Communication: Communicates effectively with students, staff, families, and the community.
4. Trust: Treats all staff, students, families, and community members fairly, while fostering trust and positive morale
5. Composed: Even-tempered, accommodating, patient, humble, and tactful especially in difficult situations.
6. Inclusive and Welcoming: Good-natured, approachable, and quick to help others
7. Integrity: Acts with honesty and holds strong professional values
8. Critical Thinker: Analyzes complex issues and uses logic to address issues
9. Leadership: Demonstrates strong collaborative and visionary leadership skills

Anticipated Salary and Benefits:

The Waukee CSD School Board is considering a base salary range from $265,000 to $285,000. Actual salary will be commensurate with the new Superintendent’s experience and education.

Application Instructions:
Include the following in your application:

1. Cover letter stating interest and unique qualifications for the position
   • Save the name “Waukee CSD” in the document title.
2. Full resume/vitae
3. Three current letters of recommendation
4. Copy of Superintendent license (regardless of state) or evidence of eligibility for a Superintendent license
5. Contact information for three additional references different than the reference letters

The candidates will remain confidential to the public until the finalist stage.

More Information:
For any questions regarding the Waukee CSD Superintendent search, contact an HYA associate or contributor listed below. Do not contact Waukee CSD School Board members or District employees.

Paul Tedesco, HYA Associate Email: paultedesco@hyasearch.com 
Bob Olson, HYA Contributor Email: robertolson@hyasearch.com
Gary DeLacy, HYA Contributor Email: garydelacy@hyasearch.com 

How to apply for this job?

1. Register for an account on the HYA website. Or, log in to the HYA website if you already have an account created. Click the Login/Register button at the top of the page to get started.
2. After logging in, click the Apply Now button at the top of this page.
3. You will be redirected to the Frontline Education website. This website is where you will submit your application. This website also will require its own unique login and password.