The Clarion-Goldfield-Dows District hosted three strong finalists for their district superintendent position. Each candidate met with two mixed formal interview teams and the school board and had both a community and district tour. The Board of Education met in closed session to review feedback from the formal interview teams after the interviews on Wednesday, Feb. 26th.
Based on clear feedback from the interview groups, Mr. Joseph Nelson was identified as the best fit for the district and was offered the position. His contract will be officially approved at the March 12th school board meeting pending a formal background check. Mr. Nelson was excited to verbally accept the position saying, “I learned during the interview process about the passion that exists in the community for the students in the CGD District. Everyone I met wants to roll up their sleeves and go to work for the kids in these communities. I truly can’t wait to be a part of that service to the community and students in Clarion, Goldfield, Dows, and Galt. I can guarantee you our CGD students will get to know me, because I want to be a champion and advocate for ALL students. I’ve made three trips to the district in the past month. After completing my third district visit and interview on Wednesday, February 26th, there was no question in my mind where I wanted to be. I absolutely loved meeting with the students, parents, school board, and community members. It just feels like a great fit, and I can’t wait to move into the district this summer.”
Nelson currently serves as the Athletic Director for Johnston Community School District. This is his third year in this role. He currently oversees a $1,300,000 annual budget for 21 sports and 124 academic and activity programs.
Some of Nelson’s current references said, “Joe is one of the most passionate educators I’ve ever worked with. He is student-centered in all he does and is an advocate for underprivileged students.” Another commented, “Mr. Nelson is a true advocate for the district. He has built many community partnerships and enhanced opportunities for students in the district. Joe is dedicated, hard-working, and approachable.”
His prior experience includes serving as an Elementary Principal for Southeast Polk Schools. As the Mitchellville Elementary Principal, he oversaw the building of a new $8 million elementary school. Under his leadership, his elementary school was also named a National Blue Ribbon School in 2012. He also served SE Polk as the Director of Student Services and Homeless Coordinator. He started his career as an elementary teacher and coach with Earlham Schools.
Nelson grew up in Slater, IA. He earned his Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Northern Iowa. His Masters in Educational Leadership was issued from Drake University in 2003 where he also earned his Specialist Degree in 2016. As part of his Specialist Degree, he participated in an international trip to study Education in Finland.
In his spare time, Nelson enjoys fishing, hunting, reading, umpiring baseball and traveling. He looks forward to attending CGD events and celebrating the success of the students in the district.
The board would like to express gratitude to everyone involved in the hiring process. Beth Severson, Board President, said, “We appreciate Grundmeyer Leader Services helping with our hiring process and all the feedback we were able to get from the formal interview teams to help make our decision. We are excited to work with Joe and what he will offer both our district and communities. His vision, passion, and commitment were clear, and we welcome him to the Clarion-Goldfield-Dows family.”
The new superintendent will officially begin his duties on July 1, 2020 and will be transitioning with retiring superintendent Dr. Bob Olson between now and then. Please welcome Joe Nelson to the district and communities.
