The candidate pool for the superintendent position resulted in 21 total candidates. The Clarion-Goldfield-Dows Board of Education met in closed session on Wednesday, January 15, to review all 21 applicants’ materials and references with Grundmeyer Leader Services consultants. Five candidates were selected as semifinalists and invited for screening interviews with the board on February 5. At conclusion of the screening interviews, the Board invited three finalists to interview on Wednesday, Feb. 26. These finalists are:
Joseph Nelson – Joe is currently serving as the Athletic Director for Johnston Community School District. This is his third year in this role. His prior experience includes serving as an Elementary Principal for Southeast Polk Schools. Under his leadership, his school was named a National Blue Ribbon School in both 2008 and 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. He has also served as a teacher at Jordan Creek Elementary and one year as Dean of Students at Capital View Elementary.
Marty Fonley – Marty served the Algona School District for 11 years as their Superintendent. He is currently serving as an Assistant High School Principal in Spencer. He also has experience as interim superintendent, assistant high school principal, elementary principal, curriculum coordinator, and elementary teacher. Marty has a strong school finance background with proven leadership in building new facilities and community engagement. He also leads school finance tracks annually at the ISFLC Conference.
Greg Darling – Greg is currently the Superintendent for Humboldt Community Schools. He has served the district since 2008 while also being a Shared Superintendent with Twin Rivers since 2009. Prior, he served as Assistant Superintendent for South Tama Schools and middle school principal. He has also served as middle school athletic director, teacher, and coach. Greg is active in both local and national organizations. He has served the Iowa High School Athletic Association Board of Control since 2012 and Humboldt County Education Foundation.
Stakeholders invited to interview the finalists will be asked to provide input on the formal interview questions soon. Formal interview team members will also be asked to provide input about each finalist at the conclusion of the interview process. The school board will consider feedback from the formal interview teams as they decide who will be the new district superintendent. The new superintendent will officially begin his duties on July 1, 2020.
