New Ankeny School District Leaders: Matt Adams Says There Are No Disposable Students

are back in session and there are several new (and familiar) faces in different roles throughout the district.

Ankeny Patch will introduce a few of these new district leaders to you so you can learn a bit more about the person behind the title. What subject did they excel in during their own school years? Who was their favorite teacher?

There are six new district administrators in all and we'll introduce one each day. Today, meet Matt Adams, the district's new assistant superintendent of organizational development and learning.

Adams replaced Bruce Kimpston, .

What was your favorite/least favorite subject as a student in school and why?

As a child, my favorite subject in school was science. I was the type of kid that couldn’t go past a rock without turning it over to see what was under it. I spent a great deal of time exploring in the creek on the family farm. I can remember taking snakes, crawdads and other critters to school to show my teacher. I’m sure she was always excited to see me carrying a box or jar with holes punched in the top.

Who was your favorite teacher and what did you learn from that person?

I have fond memories of many great teachers -- probably why I became a teacher myself. Coach Harold Wilkinson would probably make the top spot. He was the type of guy you didn’t want to disappoint. He built tremendous relationships with the students and athletes. I learned that relationship is key to success in the classroom. 

What's your favorite movie about school life?

The best movie about school life is Stand and Deliver. There are not any disposable students and if a great teacher can make students believe that anything is possible then, well, anything IS possible.

What's the top priority or goal you've set in your new job?

The number one priority of any school district should be student achievement. The goals I have set for myself reflect this top priority. We will be working very hard this year to ensure we are creating a culture that honors students, parents and teachers and mirrors our district mission and vision. I believe my role is to serve the teachers and principals in the buildings so high levels of learning can occur.

What do you feel is the biggest need in the Ankeny school system?

The greatest need of the Ankeny Community School District is to unite together and align all of our energy and resources to what matters most — student achievement.

Want to learn more about Adams' professional and work background? .