The Central DeWitt School Board would like to thank the 266 parents, teachers, community members, support staff and students who completed the stakeholders survey, and the 32 interview committee members who provided invaluable feedback regarding the strengths and challenges facing our school district. The individual comments and overall candidate rankings provided by the almost 300 respondents, representing our great community, provided the board direction in selecting our superintendent. The person selected needed to exhibit the attributes and disposition of a strong instructional leader who will effectively manage district resources, build community/school relations, and recruit, hire, and support current staff. Based upon these core values, the board is proud to announce that Dr. Stephanie Mishler will assume the duties as our new Superintendent/Chief Educational Officer, pending board approval, beginning Monday, July 1, 2024.
As interim superintendent of the Fairfield CSD, Dr. Mishler has led strategic initiatives aligned with student success, positive culture, and fiscal responsibility. Notably, she led a successful public information campaign resulting in a 67% approval rate for an increased PPEL referendum in March 2024 and implemented a program-based budgeting process that reduced expenditures by up to $1.6 million.
Dr. Mishler holds a doctorate degree in educational leadership from Drake University and a master’s degree in educational administration from Iowa State University. Her educational career spans 15 years, including previous roles as curriculum director and associate high school principal in Fairfield.
“I am deeply honored and grateful for the opportunity to serve as the superintendent of the Central DeWitt Community School District,” said Dr. Mishler. “I am committed to advancing our vision of becoming a destination for innovative learning and eager to collaborate with our dedicated staff, families, and community to ensure that Central DeWitt continues to prepare every student for lifelong success. My husband, Matt, our four daughters, and I are thrilled to become active members of the Central DeWitt community. We look forward to embracing the rich traditions and opportunities that await us, and I am genuinely excited to be part of the extraordinary journey ahead.”
Board members worked with Grundmeyer Leader Services to conduct the search. Dr. Mishler interviewed with interview groups consisting of students, parents, teachers, staff, and community members on May 8, 2024.