Wendt's Tenure With Ankeny Schools Marked by Tax Changes, Ongoing School Construction

, the Ankeny school district has seen many changes under the leadership of departing Superintendent Matthew Wendt.

While some Ankeny residents might remember the huge curriculum overhaul overseen by Wendt’s administrative team, others might recall him as the person who helped lead the district down an unprecedented path as it prepares to split to a two-high school system.

"Ankeny enjoys a tradition of excellence, and I trust the last five years has respected the past," Wendt said in a press release issued by the district. "As a team we have worked to position the school district to serve thousands of more students with an even more solid foundation.”

What do you feel has been Wendt’s greatest accomplishment while leading Ankeny school district? Tell us in the comments!

Wendt, who has been with the district since 2007, submitted his resignation to the Ankeny school board Wednesday night. His last day with the district is June 30.

Before coming to Ankeny, Wendt spent seven years as the associate superintendent of learning for the Pittsburg Unified School District in Pittsburg, Kan. Before that, he was the superintendent of schools at Fowler Unified School District in Fowler, Kan.

Here is a snapshot of district accomplishments during Wendt’s time as superintendent:

• Built five new schools to accommodate the growing enrollment of the district (1,800 students since 2007)

• Reduced taxes by $1.75 per every $1,000 of assessed valuation after the district raised them by $2.51 for fiscal year 2011.

• Established a core curriculum across all Ankeny schools.

The superintendent has also bore his share of criticism over changes made during his tenure, including:

• Transitioning the district to a two-high-school system

• Increasing the district property tax levy by $2.51 in fiscal year 2011 to compensate for a 10 percent statewide across-the-board cut in 2009.

• Paying the costs associated with a long-term plan for school construction and renovation.

Stick with Ankeny Patch over the coming month for continued coverage and highlights of the years Wendt served the .