Valley High School Welcomes New Principal: West Des Moines School Board Announcement

Chloe Fitzgerald

4 min read

Post on May 30, 2025

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The New Principal: Ms. Sarah Chen – A Profile

The West Des Moines School Board is thrilled to welcome Ms. Sarah Chen as the new principal of Valley High School. Ms. Chen brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success in educational leadership to this prestigious role.

• Biographical Information: Ms. Chen holds a Master's degree in Educational Leadership from Drake University and a Bachelor's degree in History from the University of Iowa. She boasts over 15 years of experience in education, including 8 years as an assistant principal at Waukee High School and 5 years as a high school history teacher.

• Achievements and Awards: During her time at Waukee High School, Ms. Chen spearheaded a successful initiative to increase student engagement in extracurricular activities, resulting in a 20% rise in participation. She also received the Waukee School District's "Excellence in Leadership" award in 2021.

• Ms. Chen's Statement: "I am incredibly honored and excited to join the Valley High School community," said Ms. Chen. "I'm looking forward to collaborating with students, faculty, staff, and parents to build upon Valley High School's strong foundation and create an even more enriching and supportive learning environment."

• Community Involvement: Ms. Chen is actively involved in the West Des Moines community, volunteering with the local food bank and serving on the board of the West Des Moines Arts Council.

West Des Moines School Board's Rationale for the Appointment

The West Des Moines School Board conducted a rigorous and extensive search for the new Valley High School principal. The process involved reviewing numerous applications, conducting interviews with finalists, and gathering input from stakeholders, including teachers, parents, and students.

• Selection Process: Over 50 applications were received. The initial screening narrowed the field to 10 candidates, who then underwent a series of interviews with the selection committee. Site visits and community forums were also part of the process.

• Desired Qualities: The board sought a candidate with strong leadership skills, a commitment to innovative teaching methods, and a dedication to fostering a positive and inclusive school culture. Experience in curriculum development, strategic planning, and community engagement were also key criteria.

• Why Ms. Chen? Ms. Chen's exceptional leadership skills, her proven ability to improve student outcomes, and her deep commitment to community engagement made her stand out among the other candidates. Her vision for Valley High School closely aligns with the board's goals for the school's future.

• Addressing Challenges: The board hopes Ms. Chen will address the increasing need for advanced course offerings and expand opportunities for students interested in STEM fields. Another key challenge is to maintain a positive and supportive learning environment for all students in the wake of the pandemic.

Expectations and Future Plans for Valley High School under New Leadership

The West Des Moines School Board has high expectations for Valley High School under Ms. Chen's leadership. The board envisions a school that continues to excel academically, fosters a supportive and inclusive environment, and provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in college and beyond.

• Board's Vision: The board envisions a Valley High School that is a leader in innovative teaching and learning, a place where students feel empowered and supported to reach their full potential. A key focus will be on improved student mental health and well-being.

• New Initiatives: Ms. Chen plans to implement new initiatives focused on personalized learning, expanding access to technology, and strengthening partnerships with local businesses and colleges. She also plans to increase opportunities for student leadership and engagement.

• Enhancing Student Learning: Ms. Chen’s focus will be on creating a robust curriculum that caters to diverse learning styles and prepares students for success in a rapidly changing world. She will prioritize fostering a growth mindset among students and staff alike.

• Parent and Community Engagement: Improved communication and collaboration with parents and the broader community are central to Ms. Chen's plans. She intends to establish regular forums for communication and feedback.

Conclusion

The appointment of Ms. Sarah Chen as the new principal of Valley High School marks a significant step forward for West Des Moines Schools. The West Des Moines School Board's thorough selection process has resulted in a leader ideally suited to guide Valley High School towards continued excellence. With Ms. Chen's experience and vision, a bright future awaits students, faculty, and the entire West Des Moines community.

Call to Action: Stay informed about the exciting changes happening at Valley High School by visiting the West Des Moines School District website for updates and upcoming events. Learn more about the new principal and the future of Valley High School!