Kristi Mixdorf named as new Edwards Elementary Principal

The Ames Community School District is pleased to announce Kristi Mixdorf as the new principal of Edwards Elementary. She will replace Dave Peterson who announced his retirement earlier this year. Ms. Mixdorf will officially start her new position on July 1, 2018.

Mixdorf has 18 years of experience in education as both a leader and teacher. She is currently serving as Director of Teaching and Learning for the North Polk Community School District, and her previous experience included being an Instructional Coach in Ankeny, and a classroom teacher in both the Ankeny and Des Moines School Districts. She obtained her undergraduate degree from the University of Northern Iowa, and her Masters in Education degree from Viterbo University, where she also served as an adjunct professor for five years. Mixdorf is a highly engaged professional who has participated in a variety of professional development opportunities including presentations at local and national conferences.

Based on her wealth of experience, Mixdorf has a comprehensive understanding of elementary literacy, the ability to design and deliver effective professional development for teachers, and has success in addressing student achievement goals. Beyond that, she has an unwavering passion for helping all learners in the educational process.

Finalists for the position were invited to participate in a two-part interview process that included a variety of stakeholders including building teachers and staff, district administrators, and parents. Mixdorf stood out based on her wealth of elementary experience, strong communication skills, and knowledge of instructional best practices.

Ms. Mixdorf will be introduced at the March 26 board meeting with her contract beginning July 1, 2018. As a District, we are excited to begin working with Kristi this summer and look forward to her leadership at Edwards Elementary.