New Westwood Principal Motivated By 7th-Grade Teacher Who Made Learning Fun

Four new adminstrators are ready to take the helm at their respective schools within the next year.

But who are these individuals who will be leading our schools?

In an effort to help you get to know the new faces among the school district's administrative team, we got a chance to ask a few questions to the new leaders of , Ankeny Centennial High School, Prairie Trail Elementary School and .

Each day this week, we profiled one of the building principals who will start their new roles within the district on July 1. Today, in our final installment, get to know Amy Dittmar, who will succeed Jim Ford as Westwood Elementary School principal this fall.

AMY DITTMAR

Age:  40

Family Members: Husband, Brad; 11-year-old daughter, Zoe; 9-year-old daughter, Olivia; and 6-year-old son, Drake.

Where/When Did You Graduate From College? What Degree?:

• Undergrad – University of Northern Iowa – 1994/elementary education
• Master's – Lindenwood University, St. Louis – 2000/ educational administration
• Doctorate – Maryville University, St. Louis – 2008/educational leadership

Where Have You Taught Previously and What Were Your Roles at Each?

• 4 years in San Antonio, Texas –  fourth- and fifth-grade teacher
• 3 years in St. Louis, Mo. – fourth-grade teacher
• 3 years as an instructional coach in St. Louis
• 3 years as an assistant principal in St. Louis
• 5 years as a principal in St. Louis

Name a Teacher That Most Influenced You and Why:

My seventh-grade science teacher, Mr. Harter. He made learning fun and he had positive relationships with all students. He believed in me and motivated me to become the best student I could be. 

What is Your Educational Philosophy?

Children come first. Every decision that we make in education should be in the best interest of every child. It is our responsibility to ensure that every child succeeds and the school community will work together to provide a high quality education to our children.

What Will You Try to Bring to Your New Role?

I would like to provide a new perspective or possibly different ideas based on the unique experiences I have encountered throughout my career. I hope to bring a sense of compassion and commitment to Westwood, all while making learning fun.

What Will You Enjoy Most About Being a Part of Ankeny Schools? 

I look forward to being a part of a first-class school district, not only for my career, but also for my children to experience.

Did you like this story? Check out the ones we did earlier this week if you want to learn more about our new district administrators:

• Tuesday: Jeff Hawkins, new principal of Ankeny High School.
  
• Wednesday: Jen Lindaman, new principal of Ankeny Centennial High School, set to open August 2013.
• Thursday: Pam Dodge, new principal of Prairie Trail Elementary School, set to open in August 2012.