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'A longtime goal and dream of mine': Dr. Nikki Roorda named superintendent of Johnston schools

Roorda has served as interim superintendent since May.

JOHNSTON, Iowa — The Johnston Community School District finally has a new superintendent. 

Dr. Nikki Roorda will assume the role of permanent superintendent on Wednesday, Nov. 1. She has served as interim superintendent for the district since May. 

“We have appreciated Dr. Roorda’s leadership as Interim Superintendent these past few months, and are excited to welcome her as the long-term leader of our district,” said Dr. Alicia Clevenger, president of the Johnston Board of Education, in a statement. “We are confident that her expertise and dedication will propel the district to new heights in both educational excellence, as well as in developing a culture here where everyone feels welcome, valued and heard.”

Prior to becoming a school administrator, Roorda worked as a teacher and a literacy coordinator in Iowa and Colorado. After that, Roorda served as Regional Director for Heartland Area Education Agency for 12 years.

In August 2019, Roorda began working for JSCD, serving as the Executive Director of Teaching and Learning and eventually, as Associate Superintendent. 

“I am deeply honored by the district’s selection of me as the permanent superintendent of the Johnston Community School District,” Roorda said in a statement. “As many of you know, it has been a longtime goal and dream of mine to be a superintendent. I am so proud of the work we’ve done here together these past four years, and we’ve only just begun. Johnston is a great place and I am so excited to continue leading us to be even better. Thank you so much for this opportunity.”

Roorda was one of two finalists to interview with stakeholder groups of students, parents, teachers and community members, the district says. 

The previous Johnston Community School District Superintendent Laura Kacer resigned after the school board urged for "a different direction in leadership" in February. 

Roorda's contract will likely be approved at the upcoming Johnston School Board meeting on Monday, Nov. 6. 

After a search and interview process, the Johnston Board of Education has named Dr. Nikki Roorda as the district’s...

Posted by Johnston Community School District on Wednesday, October 25, 2023

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