Who is Bruce Kimpston?

In the three years he’s been a part of the  district, Bruce Kimpston has been the go-to guy to oversee the little details that make up the move to two high schools.

He worked with the community to help select the mascot and colors for the two high schools, among other tasks.

 to appoint Kimpston to the job of superintendent, offering him a one-year contract. He will replace outgoing superintendent Matthew Wendt, who resigned last week to take a job in the Oswego, IL, school district in suburban Chicago.

“Bruce’s experience and vision more than qualify him to lead the district forward, and we believe his calm demeanor is exactly what we need to move ahead. The Ankeny Education Association supports and applauds the board’s decision,” said Greg Lage, AEA president, in a district news release.

Kimpston joined the district in 2009 in the role of associate superintendent of schools. His leadership responsibilities have included organizational development and Learning, as well as serving as chief operations officer in overseeing the daily operations of the district.

During the past three years, Kimpston has provided oversight of Building Leadership, Human Resources, Community Education, Safety, and Communications, the district said. Kimpston is familiar with the planning and details of the transition to two secondary school systems, as he was charged with leading the transition efforts.

“Dr. Kimpston will be able to ensure that the transition in the 2013-2014 school year stays on track and takes place in a smooth, efficient manner,” noted board President George Tracy.

Prior to joining the Ankeny administrative team, Kimpston served as assistant superintendent of human resources for the Waukee school district.

Throughout his years as an educator, Kimpston has served as an administrator, teacher, counselor, coach, and sponsor. In 2012, Kimpston is celebrating his 26th year in education, having served school districts in Ankeny, Waukee, West Des Moines, Dowling High School, and Martensdale-St. Marys.

Kimpston received his bachelors of arts magna cum laude from Iowa Wesleyan College. He also holds a masters degree in counseling from Iowa State University; a masters degree in educational administration from Drake University; and a doctorate of education from Drake University.

Kimpston has been married for 25 years to his wife, Mary, who is an elementary music teacher. They have two children, Christopher (20) and Emily (18).