Ankeny School District Fills Two Additional Assistant Principal Spots

A principal from Humboldt and 's band director are both set to fill administrative roles in the  over the next year.

Jodie Graham, current principal at Humboldt High School, recently was named an assistant principal at Ankeny High School. Her first day is July 1.

Darin Haack, the current band director at Ankeny High School, will become assistant principal next year, although the school in which he will work has yet to be determined. Haack has been with the district since 2003.

Graham's Leadership Background Spans Humboldt, Waukee

Before Graham joined the staff at Humboldt, she was assistant principal and dean of students at Waukee Middle School.

Graham also was a family and consumer science teacher at both Meredith Middle School and Hoover High School in Des Moines. She also held the position of assistant athletic director at Hoover for three years.

"Her strong instructional leadership background will be a great asset to Ankeny High School," said incoming Ankeny High School Principal Jeff Hawkins.

Graham has a bachelor’s degree in family and consumer sciences education from Iowa State University and a master’s degree in educational leadership from the University of Northern Iowa.

Haack Will Wait One Year Before Assuming New Role

In addition to serving as band director, Haack also is instrumental music content facilitator for the entire district. He will remain in these roles until the 2013-14 school year.

“Mr. Haack has agreed to remain in his current role and assist the district in preparing the many elements of instrumental music for a smooth and successful transition to a multiple secondary-school system,” said Bruce Kimpston, Ankeny school district superintendent.  “We are very fortunate to have him as a leader in this effort, and appreciate his willingness to help complete this challenge.”

Prior to joining the district, Haack was the director of bands for Allison Bristow Community Schools in Allison, as well as director of bands for North Polk Junior/Senior High in Alleman.

Haack graduated from Ankeny High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in music education from the University of Northern Iowa.  He holds a master’s degree in music education from Boston University and a master’s degree in educational leadership from the University of Iowa.

Hawkins said Haack has proven his ability to lead over the past eight years.

"He possesses the abilities to improve instruction, make meaningful connections with students and help guide students to find great success,” Hawkins said.  “These qualities, and his willingness to always do what is best for students, will make him very successful in his new role.”