Dr. Trent Grundmeyer
Trent is the founder of Grundmeyer Leader Search LLC. He currently serves as an Associate Professor of Education Leadership at Buena Vista University. His prior experience includes serving as a Professor at Drake University and serving as a high school principal at Hampton-Dumont and Indianola High School. Trent was recognized as 2013 Secondary Principal of the Year by the School Administrators of Iowa organization. He was also named the 2009 Character Counts! Administrator of the Year in Iowa. He earned his doctorate degree in educational leadership at Iowa State University in 2013 and focuses much of his research around technology integration and leadership.
Trent has many connections around the state and Midwest which provides and advantages to the districts he serves through the recruiting and hiring process. Grundmeyer Leader Search continues to grow based on Trent's integrity in the search process ensuring that the leader who gets hired is truly the best fit for the job. GLS is now Grundmeyer Leader Services which has expanded the team of consultants to serve schools in leading the hiring process to onboarding new superintendents as well as leading administrative and school board retreats.
Trent has many connections around the state and Midwest which provides and advantages to the districts he serves through the recruiting and hiring process. Grundmeyer Leader Search continues to grow based on Trent's integrity in the search process ensuring that the leader who gets hired is truly the best fit for the job. GLS is now Grundmeyer Leader Services which has expanded the team of consultants to serve schools in leading the hiring process to onboarding new superintendents as well as leading administrative and school board retreats.
| trent_grundmeyer_cv.pdf |
Dr. Jim Verlengia
Jim earned his B.A. degree from the University of Northern Colorado, his M.A. degree from Adams State College in Alamosa, Colo., and his educational specialist and doctorate degrees from Drake University in Des Moines. He has served Drake as chairman of the President’s National Advisory Board, chairman of the School of Education National Advisory Board and as an adjunct professor. Jim has also received Drake’s School of Education Distinguished Alumni Award.
Throughout his career, Jim has served as a teacher, principal, central office administrator and superintendent, as well as an AEA director, working with teachers, administrators and boards of education in developing, implementing and evaluating initiatives that impact student achievement. For his efforts and commitment to youth, he has received local and state recognition as a catalyst in the middle school movement and was recognized as Iowa Middle School Educator of the Year. Jim’s leadership talents have extended beyond education when he was selected to participate in Leadership Iowa, a premier issues-awareness program promoting leadership within the State.
Throughout his career, Jim has served as a teacher, principal, central office administrator and superintendent, as well as an AEA director, working with teachers, administrators and boards of education in developing, implementing and evaluating initiatives that impact student achievement. For his efforts and commitment to youth, he has received local and state recognition as a catalyst in the middle school movement and was recognized as Iowa Middle School Educator of the Year. Jim’s leadership talents have extended beyond education when he was selected to participate in Leadership Iowa, a premier issues-awareness program promoting leadership within the State.
| jim_verlengia_resume.doc |
Dr. Kevin Fiene
Dr. Fiene is a lead GLS consultant who also leads many administrative and board workshops. Kevin is the former Superintendent of Interstate 35 Community Schools. Originally from northern Illinois, Kevin came to Iowa (and never left) to do his undergraduate work at Central College in Pella, and both his masters and doctorate at the University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls. His work experience includes 10 years as a teacher and coach at Denver Schools; six years as secondary principal at Denver; six years as high school principal at Waverly-Shell Rock School, Waverly; nine years as associate professor of education at Wartburg College, Waverly; four years as superintendent at East Sac County Schools, Lake View; and four years as superintendent at Interstate 35 Schools, Truro.
Throughout his career, Kevin’s focus has been on collaborative leadership designed to provide the best learning opportunities for students. He has also served on multiple state boards and committees.
Throughout his career, Kevin’s focus has been on collaborative leadership designed to provide the best learning opportunities for students. He has also served on multiple state boards and committees.
| kevin_fiene_resume_.doc |
Roger Wilcox
Roger Wilcox retired from Waverly-Shell Rock Community Schools in June of 2016. Since then, Roger has been a lead consultant for GLS leading principal, superintendent and AEA Chief Administrator searches all over Iowa. Roger was an elementary and middle school principal at WSR for 25 years. Prior to that administrative assignment, Roger was a PK-6 principal at Dunkerton Community Schools. He taught in a variety of elementary classroom settings in Glenwood, Iowa, while obtaining his MS degree from Creighton University. During the 2016-17 school year, Roger was hired by New York City Leadership Academy as a principal “coach” working with principals at all stages of their professional careers.
Roger was named the Iowa Fine Arts Administrator in 2010, Iowa Music Educator’s Administrator of the Year for the Support of the Arts in 2009, and received the Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award in 2000. Roger has been an adjunct instructor for Viterbo University, Buena Vista University, and the University of Northern Iowa. Currently he is a consultant with Grundmeyer Leader Search and does other independent educational consulting.
Roger was named the Iowa Fine Arts Administrator in 2010, Iowa Music Educator’s Administrator of the Year for the Support of the Arts in 2009, and received the Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award in 2000. Roger has been an adjunct instructor for Viterbo University, Buena Vista University, and the University of Northern Iowa. Currently he is a consultant with Grundmeyer Leader Search and does other independent educational consulting.
| 2021__roger_wilcox_resume.doc.pdf |
Dr. Brian Mitchell
Dr. Brian Mitchell is a lead consultant for GLS in both Iowa and Missouri. He earned an Educational Specialist from Missouri State University in Springfield, Missouri in 2001 with an emphasis in the Superintendency. Dr. Mitchell earned his Doctorate of Educational Leadership from Saint Louis University in Saint Louis, Missouri in 2007. After six years in the classroom, Dr. Mitchell served as the Assistant Principal at Bolivar Primary School for one year and Elementary Principal for the Greenfield R-IV School District in Greenfield, MO after which, Dr. Mitchell was offered and accepted the Superintendent’s position at Fair Play R-II School District where he served for five years. In 2005, Dr. Mitchell accepted the position as Deputy Superintendent with the Independence 30 School District in Independence, MO. overseeing all day-to-day operations. After completing four years with the Independence School District, Dr. Mitchell was offered and accepted the position of Superintendent of Schools for the Jefferson City Public Schools in Jefferson City, Missouri where he retired.
During his tenure as a district level administrator, Dr. Mitchell was recognized as the New Superintendent of the year for the Southwest MASA District in 2003 and the 2010 Missouri Association of Educational Office Professionals Administrator of the Year. Brian joined the GLS team in 2020 and is the lead consultant for leader searches in Missouri.
During his tenure as a district level administrator, Dr. Mitchell was recognized as the New Superintendent of the year for the Southwest MASA District in 2003 and the 2010 Missouri Association of Educational Office Professionals Administrator of the Year. Brian joined the GLS team in 2020 and is the lead consultant for leader searches in Missouri.
| brian_mitchell-_resume.docx |
Shane Ehresman
Shane currently serves as the 7-12 Principal for BGM Schools in Brooklyn, IA. He was assistant professor and director of distance learning at William Penn University in Oskaloosa for three years, superintendent of Lynnville-Sully Community School District for 11 years, high school principal in Washington for five years, high school associate principal and activities director and social studies teacher at Marion Independent School District for 10 years and social studies teacher in Forreston, Illinois for a year.
He has completed doctoral coursework in Educational Administration at Western Illinois University; earned a Specialist (EdS) Degree and Master's Degree (M.A.) in Educational Administration from the University of Iowa; a Master’s of Arts in Teaching Degree (M.A.T.) from Coe College; and a Bachelor of Special Studies Degree (B.S.S.) from Cornell College.
Shane was recognized by the Ray Center at Drake University for an Iowa Character Counts Award in 2021; Iowa Administrator of the Year Award by the Iowa High School Press Association (IHSPA) in 2010, and Iowa Assistant Principal of the Year Award by School Administrators of Iowa (SAI) in 2005. Shane has also served on advisory committees for the Iowa High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) and Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union (IGHSAU).
He has completed doctoral coursework in Educational Administration at Western Illinois University; earned a Specialist (EdS) Degree and Master's Degree (M.A.) in Educational Administration from the University of Iowa; a Master’s of Arts in Teaching Degree (M.A.T.) from Coe College; and a Bachelor of Special Studies Degree (B.S.S.) from Cornell College.
Shane was recognized by the Ray Center at Drake University for an Iowa Character Counts Award in 2021; Iowa Administrator of the Year Award by the Iowa High School Press Association (IHSPA) in 2010, and Iowa Assistant Principal of the Year Award by School Administrators of Iowa (SAI) in 2005. Shane has also served on advisory committees for the Iowa High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) and Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union (IGHSAU).
| shane_ehresman_resume_12-31-21.doc |
Terry Welker
Terry brings a wealth of human resources knowledge to the GLS Team from both the public sector (serving public school districts, cities, and hospitals) and the private sector as well (Hyundai). Dr. Terry Welker, SHRM-SCP has a background in public safety as a Chief Officer, training specialist and criminal investigator and an HR background in
many public entities and private corporations prior to founding Universal HR Solutions. Terry has two Master’s degress (Human Resources and Finance) and a Ph.D. from Drake University specializing in Recruitment Processes and recognizing bias components. Terry also teaches Employment Law, People Analytics, Statistics and other courses related to Human Resources. Today, Terry teaches full-time courses focused on Strategic Management, Leadership and Change Management Theories at Iowa State University’s Ivy School of Business.
Terry is the founder of his own consulting company called Universal HR Solutions. For any human resources consulting or executive training outside of education, Terry is highly recommended. For more information you can visit his website at universalhr.org.
many public entities and private corporations prior to founding Universal HR Solutions. Terry has two Master’s degress (Human Resources and Finance) and a Ph.D. from Drake University specializing in Recruitment Processes and recognizing bias components. Terry also teaches Employment Law, People Analytics, Statistics and other courses related to Human Resources. Today, Terry teaches full-time courses focused on Strategic Management, Leadership and Change Management Theories at Iowa State University’s Ivy School of Business.
Terry is the founder of his own consulting company called Universal HR Solutions. For any human resources consulting or executive training outside of education, Terry is highly recommended. For more information you can visit his website at universalhr.org.
Shanlee McNally
Shanlee adds a unique perspective to the GLS team as a former school board member who hired multiple superintendents. She graduated from Northwestern University with a B.A. in Political Science. She recently completed 13 years of service on the Waterloo Schools Board of Education, the last eight of which she served as Board Chair.
During her tenure the district reached its highest ever graduation rate and built a state of the art regional career center with 18 pathways, serving eight neighboring school districts. She possesses expertise in school finance and facilities as well as Board management and development. She is an active volunteer in her community serving on multiple boards and fundraising campaigns. She currently works for a private foundation which funds projects benefiting young people in Northeast Iowa. Shanlee brings an insightful board perspective to the search team!
During her tenure the district reached its highest ever graduation rate and built a state of the art regional career center with 18 pathways, serving eight neighboring school districts. She possesses expertise in school finance and facilities as well as Board management and development. She is an active volunteer in her community serving on multiple boards and fundraising campaigns. She currently works for a private foundation which funds projects benefiting young people in Northeast Iowa. Shanlee brings an insightful board perspective to the search team!
Art Sathoff
Art brings a wealth of experience and networks to the GLS team. He had a successful thirty-four-year career in public education, serving four different districts in teaching, coaching, and various administrative roles. Art finished his career as the Indianola CSD superintendent from 2014-2022. He was a secondary principal for ten years and superintendent for eleven years.
Art did his undergraduate work at Wartburg College, earning a B.A. in English Education. He went on to earn an M.A. in English Literature from the University of Northern Iowa. Education Leadership work was completed at Drake University, resulting in principal licensure and an Ed.S. degree. After his postsecondary studies Art completed the licensed ministry program through the Christian Church of the Upper Midwest.
Art did his undergraduate work at Wartburg College, earning a B.A. in English Education. He went on to earn an M.A. in English Literature from the University of Northern Iowa. Education Leadership work was completed at Drake University, resulting in principal licensure and an Ed.S. degree. After his postsecondary studies Art completed the licensed ministry program through the Christian Church of the Upper Midwest.
| art_sathoff_vita_update.docx |
Gary McAndrew
Gary McAndrew has worked as a Consultant for an Executive Recruiting firm in Education since 2012. He has worked on a number of Superintendent searches throughout Iowa, Wisconsin and Illinois. Before joining the Executive Recruiting firm, Gary was active in education by being on the Western Dubuque School Board, having served as President, and was also on the Western Dubuque Booster Club.
Gary has over 35 years of experience working in Human Resources for corporate businesses. In 2019, Gary started his own company, McAndrew Search Group. The McAndrew Search Group is an Executive Search firm that works with companies in helping them hire employees for their firms.
Gary lives in Peosta, Iowa with his wife Cheri. Gary has been active in his community. In addition to serving on the Western Dubuque School Board, he is currently on the Board of Trustees at NICC (Northeast Iowa Community College), is in the 100 Men Who Care organization, and was previously on the United Way board and Hospice Board. Gary was named Alumnus of Distinction at Western Dubuque High School, is in the Western Dubuque Athletic Hall of Fame and is also a member of the Dubuque County Baseball Hall of Fame.
Gary has over 35 years of experience working in Human Resources for corporate businesses. In 2019, Gary started his own company, McAndrew Search Group. The McAndrew Search Group is an Executive Search firm that works with companies in helping them hire employees for their firms.
Gary lives in Peosta, Iowa with his wife Cheri. Gary has been active in his community. In addition to serving on the Western Dubuque School Board, he is currently on the Board of Trustees at NICC (Northeast Iowa Community College), is in the 100 Men Who Care organization, and was previously on the United Way board and Hospice Board. Gary was named Alumnus of Distinction at Western Dubuque High School, is in the Western Dubuque Athletic Hall of Fame and is also a member of the Dubuque County Baseball Hall of Fame.
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Todd Gordon
Todd Gordon is the lead GLS consultant for activities and athletic director searches. He was an educator for 37 years serving nine different school districts. He worked in small schools, a large multi high school district and every size in between, including a stint as an administrator at a small Christian College. Todd is well-networked around the state and country with current athletic directors and stays current in the field.
Prior to his role as an athletic director, he served as a head coach for 28 years which translated to 70 total seasons as a head coach in volleyball, basketball, track, golf and baseball. He served as a full time athletic and activity administrator for 16 years in Treynor, Carlisle, Des Moines Roosevelt and recently retired from the Greene County School District in Jefferson, IA.
Todd has been married to his wife Deb for 38 years and they have three married children and five grandchildren. In his spare time he enjoys reading, writing, playing the piano, smoking meat, collecting vinyl and playing golf.
Prior to his role as an athletic director, he served as a head coach for 28 years which translated to 70 total seasons as a head coach in volleyball, basketball, track, golf and baseball. He served as a full time athletic and activity administrator for 16 years in Treynor, Carlisle, Des Moines Roosevelt and recently retired from the Greene County School District in Jefferson, IA.
Todd has been married to his wife Deb for 38 years and they have three married children and five grandchildren. In his spare time he enjoys reading, writing, playing the piano, smoking meat, collecting vinyl and playing golf.
| todd_a_gordon_2022_resume.docx |
Dave Versteeg
Dave is the lead GLS consultant in South Dakota, Wyoming and Montana. Dave Versteeg recently retired after serving as superintendent of Mason City Community School District, in Mason City, IA. He has recently relocated to Custer, SD in the summer of 2022. Dave has previous superintendent experience at Montezuma, IA; principal experience at Pella, IA; Newcastle, WY and teaching and athletic director experience at Custer, SD. Dave received his Advanced Studies Certification from the University of Northern Iowa; a Master of Arts degree in Education Administration from the University of South Dakota and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Augustana University.
Highlights from Dave’s school administrative experiences and work include designation as a Model PLC District; consultant to the Iowa Department of Education on the Iowa Teacher Performance Assessment; member of several state education task forces in Iowa, Wyoming and South Dakota.
Highlights from Dave’s school administrative experiences and work include designation as a Model PLC District; consultant to the Iowa Department of Education on the Iowa Teacher Performance Assessment; member of several state education task forces in Iowa, Wyoming and South Dakota.
Amy Lane
Amy is passionate about her three amazing children, Kreyton, Carter, & Lula, their futures, and their growth as individuals. As their identities became apparent, her dedication to her son, who was diagnosed with Dyslexia at an early age ignited a desire to ensure that her own children and ALL students she connected with were in a space that focused on their strengths These aspects have been imperative to the work she facilitates with learners and educational leaders across the nation.
Amy began her career in an English Language Arts & Psychology classroom in Johnston, Iowa, transitioned to a School Improvement Administrator with Des Moines Public School District, and led Douglas County Colorado School District's academics, professional learning and leadership, and business partnerships as the Executive Director. Currently, Amy serves as a Senior Partner with Thrively, an ed-tech firm focused on staff and student agency, well-being, and strengths. These experiences, coupled with her work as a vision and learning strategist fuel her passion to further the work of educational leadership through strategic planning and quality recruitment of individuals to successfully lead forward.
Amy began her career in an English Language Arts & Psychology classroom in Johnston, Iowa, transitioned to a School Improvement Administrator with Des Moines Public School District, and led Douglas County Colorado School District's academics, professional learning and leadership, and business partnerships as the Executive Director. Currently, Amy serves as a Senior Partner with Thrively, an ed-tech firm focused on staff and student agency, well-being, and strengths. These experiences, coupled with her work as a vision and learning strategist fuel her passion to further the work of educational leadership through strategic planning and quality recruitment of individuals to successfully lead forward.
Shannon Bisgard
Shannon retired from the Linn-Mar Community School District where he served as school superintendent, associate superintendent and building principal over the course of 20 years. Shannon also served as a teacher, coach and principal in the Newton Community School District as well as a principal in Independence as well as serving Grant Wood AEA as a Regional Administrator.
Shannon completed his undergraduate work at the University of Iowa earning a bachelor of science degree in elementary education. He went on to earn a masters of education in school administration at Drake University and an advanced studies certificate and superintendent certification at the University of Northern Iowa.
Shannon has been married to his wife Diane for 31 years and they have three grown children and they have recently celebrated the birth of their first grandchild. In his spare time Shannon enjoys exercising, being outdoors, reading and following the Iowa Hawkeyes.
Shannon completed his undergraduate work at the University of Iowa earning a bachelor of science degree in elementary education. He went on to earn a masters of education in school administration at Drake University and an advanced studies certificate and superintendent certification at the University of Northern Iowa.
Shannon has been married to his wife Diane for 31 years and they have three grown children and they have recently celebrated the birth of their first grandchild. In his spare time Shannon enjoys exercising, being outdoors, reading and following the Iowa Hawkeyes.
Dave Black
Dave recently retired from the Lewis Central Community Schools in Council Bluffs, Iowa in July of 2023 where he served as the School Improvement Specialist/Assistant Superintendent for 26 years. Since then, Dave has been busy doing educational technology consulting and traveling with his wife of 43 years. Dave earned his Bachelor of Music Education degree from Morningside College and his Master of Education in Educational Administration from Iowa State University. He served as a band director and computer science teacher, a Director of Curriculum and Instruction, and Assistant Superintendent in districts in southeast Iowa and at Lewis Central.
Dave was a finalist for the Iowa Central Office Administrator of the year and for the Iowa Music Educators Administrator of the Year. He values relationships and collaboration in all that he does. He is trained in advanced Cognitive Coaching and HUMANeX Ventures and has served on several advisory boards and task force committees for the Iowa Department of Education. Dave currently serves on the governance board of the BLink project, providing free public wifi services to the cities of Council Bluffs and Carter Lake, Iowa.
Dave was a finalist for the Iowa Central Office Administrator of the year and for the Iowa Music Educators Administrator of the Year. He values relationships and collaboration in all that he does. He is trained in advanced Cognitive Coaching and HUMANeX Ventures and has served on several advisory boards and task force committees for the Iowa Department of Education. Dave currently serves on the governance board of the BLink project, providing free public wifi services to the cities of Council Bluffs and Carter Lake, Iowa.
Chris Whetzel
Chris Whetzel is the founder and lead consultant for COACHING2TNL. With years of experience in sales, non-profit, and K-12 education, Chris has helped leaders and boards achieve their goals. As a former Assistant Superintendent and Superintendent in Colorado school districts, Chris has brought stability to struggling schools and worked as a competent "confidential thinking partner" to leaders and teams. Chris has a master's degree in educational administration from Portland State University and a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. His expertise in coaching and redesigning executive approaches to leading has helped many leaders experience success and work-life balance. Chris is the lead consultant in Colorado for GLS. Chris is the lead consultant for GLS in Colorado and surrounding states.
Gary Richardson
Mr. Gary Richardson has been involved in public and higher education serving as a teacher and coach, principal, athletic director, and superintendent in public schools, while recently serving as the director of the Master of Education program and principal preparation program at Northwestern College followed by an interim placement as Dean of the Graduate School for Professional Studies at Northwestern College. Currently, Gary is serving the Harris-Lake Park school district as part-time superintendent and volunteering as an assistant coach for the
Women’s Basketball Program at Northwestern College.
Mr. Richardson graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with a B.S. in Political Science and Education. His Masters’ Degree was completed through Drake University, with an emphasis in Educational Administration. He received his Superintendent’s Endorsement through Iowa State University.
Gary was the founder of GR Consulting, which has recently joined Grundmeyer Leader Services. Gary has served School Administrators of Iowa as the Co-Director of SAI’s Administrative Support Program. Gary has been trained by the New York City Leadership Academy and has also received training as a Search Advocate through Oregon State University. Gary was recognized as the State of Iowa Coach of the Year in Class 3A in 2014, while also being honored as the Iowa Girls’ High School Athletic Association’s Character Counts Coach of the Year in 2014.
Russ Adams
Russ Adams is an accomplished educational leader with a wealth of experience. He has spent his last twenty-one years at MOC-Floyd Valley, serving the first ten years as the high school principal, followed by eleven years as the district superintendent. In addition, he teaches graduate-level principal-preparation courses for Northwestern College.
Russ also serves on the Boards of Directors for the Iowa Girls’ High School Athletic Union and the Iowa High School Speech Association. Locally, he contributes to boards related to healthcare, daycare, and economic development.
Russ did his undergraduate work at the University of Northern Iowa, earning a B.A. in Business Education. He earned his M.S. in Education from Drake University and his Superintendent Licensure in Advanced Studies from Iowa State University. He has been recognized professionally as the 2020 Iowa Superintendent of the Year, the 2009 Iowa Secondary Principal of the Year, and a 2003 Milken National Educator.
Russ also serves on the Boards of Directors for the Iowa Girls’ High School Athletic Union and the Iowa High School Speech Association. Locally, he contributes to boards related to healthcare, daycare, and economic development.
Russ did his undergraduate work at the University of Northern Iowa, earning a B.A. in Business Education. He earned his M.S. in Education from Drake University and his Superintendent Licensure in Advanced Studies from Iowa State University. He has been recognized professionally as the 2020 Iowa Superintendent of the Year, the 2009 Iowa Secondary Principal of the Year, and a 2003 Milken National Educator.
Dr. tim grieves |
Dr. Tim Grieves was a school administrator for 32 years. He retired in June 2018 from Northwest AEA. He has served as an AEA chief administrator, a superintendent, an associate superintendent, a special education director, a college professor, an elementary principal, a preschool director, an elementary teacher, and a preschool teacher in his 40-year career.
He has been trained by the New York City Leadership Academy and coaches school principals through School Administrators of Iowa. For the past 26 years he has hired numerous principals and central office personnel. For the past 11 years Dr. Grieves has worked with school boards setting board goals, assisting boards in hiring superintendents, and facilitating contentious public meetings.
Dr. Grieves graduated from Iowa State University with a B.S. in Child Development. His Masters’ Degree was completed at Kansas State University where he majored in Curriculum and Instruction, with an emphasis in multi-cultural education. He finished his schooling at The University of Iowa with a Ph.D. in Educational Administration.
Tim can be contacted at [email protected] and at 712-251-5350.
He has been trained by the New York City Leadership Academy and coaches school principals through School Administrators of Iowa. For the past 26 years he has hired numerous principals and central office personnel. For the past 11 years Dr. Grieves has worked with school boards setting board goals, assisting boards in hiring superintendents, and facilitating contentious public meetings.
Dr. Grieves graduated from Iowa State University with a B.S. in Child Development. His Masters’ Degree was completed at Kansas State University where he majored in Curriculum and Instruction, with an emphasis in multi-cultural education. He finished his schooling at The University of Iowa with a Ph.D. in Educational Administration.
Tim can be contacted at [email protected] and at 712-251-5350.
dr. john speer
Dr. John Speer most recently served as Chief Administrator of Grant Wood Area Education Agency, a role he held since 2017. He led a team of over 500 professionals providing special education and school improvement services across Benton, Cedar, Iowa, Johnson, Jones, Linn, and Washington counties—serving a total student population of 74,000. Under his leadership, the agency was recognized as one of Iowa’s top workplaces for ten consecutive years..
Prior to his leadership role at Grant Wood AEA, Speer served for six years as the superintendent of the College Community School District. He also served as superintendent in the Ballard Community School District, at Allamakee Community Schools, and held administrator positions at Independence and East Buchanan Community Schools. He began his career as a high school language arts teacher with Independence Community Schools.
Dr. Speer's educational background includes multiple degrees from the University of Northern Iowa including a bachelor's degree in english/education, a master's degree in educational administration, and a doctorate in education. Dr. Speer is a member of Iowa’s Ed Tech Collaborative and is currently co-lead of ICR Future Ready. He serves on the University of Iowa Teacher Education Advisory Committee and the Iowa Reading Research Center Advisory Council, and is a member of Prairie Gateway Rotary where he has served as President, Vice-President, and Secretary. Dr Speer was recognized in 2023 with the UNI Educational Leadership Legacy Award for his leadership in learning, service and as a leader of change in the state of Iowa.
Prior to his leadership role at Grant Wood AEA, Speer served for six years as the superintendent of the College Community School District. He also served as superintendent in the Ballard Community School District, at Allamakee Community Schools, and held administrator positions at Independence and East Buchanan Community Schools. He began his career as a high school language arts teacher with Independence Community Schools.
Dr. Speer's educational background includes multiple degrees from the University of Northern Iowa including a bachelor's degree in english/education, a master's degree in educational administration, and a doctorate in education. Dr. Speer is a member of Iowa’s Ed Tech Collaborative and is currently co-lead of ICR Future Ready. He serves on the University of Iowa Teacher Education Advisory Committee and the Iowa Reading Research Center Advisory Council, and is a member of Prairie Gateway Rotary where he has served as President, Vice-President, and Secretary. Dr Speer was recognized in 2023 with the UNI Educational Leadership Legacy Award for his leadership in learning, service and as a leader of change in the state of Iowa.
J.T. Stoder
J.T. Stroder is a seasoned educator with 26 years of experience in the field, including 19 years as
a Superintendent. His career has been dedicated to transforming school districts academically,
culturally, and financially across five states. Currently serving as the Acting Superintendent for
the City of Baker (Louisiana) School System, he brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to educational excellence.
With a philosophy grounded in the belief that every child is a unique individual with a specific
purpose, Mr. Stroder has consistently worked to provide students with the skills necessary to
fulfill their potential. His leadership has earned numerous accolades, including a National Blue
Ribbon for Academic Growth in 2009 for a high-poverty community, as well as Texas’
prestigious Gold Leadership Circle award and the ACT College Readiness award. Under his
leadership, his district in Gardiner, Montana, became the top-ranked district in the state.
Mr. Stroder’s educational journey includes Bachelors' and Masters' degrees from Baylor University and an Ed.S. in Educational Leadership from the University of Idaho. His career has been shaped by his early work in the Texas Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Program, as well as his ongoing efforts to improve educational policies at the local, state, and federal levels.With a proven track record of two financial turnarounds, three academic turnarounds, and three
cultural transformations, Mr. Stroder remains deeply committed to shaping the future of
education. He is excited to bring his expertise to the partnership with GLS.
a Superintendent. His career has been dedicated to transforming school districts academically,
culturally, and financially across five states. Currently serving as the Acting Superintendent for
the City of Baker (Louisiana) School System, he brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to educational excellence.
With a philosophy grounded in the belief that every child is a unique individual with a specific
purpose, Mr. Stroder has consistently worked to provide students with the skills necessary to
fulfill their potential. His leadership has earned numerous accolades, including a National Blue
Ribbon for Academic Growth in 2009 for a high-poverty community, as well as Texas’
prestigious Gold Leadership Circle award and the ACT College Readiness award. Under his
leadership, his district in Gardiner, Montana, became the top-ranked district in the state.
Mr. Stroder’s educational journey includes Bachelors' and Masters' degrees from Baylor University and an Ed.S. in Educational Leadership from the University of Idaho. His career has been shaped by his early work in the Texas Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Program, as well as his ongoing efforts to improve educational policies at the local, state, and federal levels.With a proven track record of two financial turnarounds, three academic turnarounds, and three
cultural transformations, Mr. Stroder remains deeply committed to shaping the future of
education. He is excited to bring his expertise to the partnership with GLS.
todd bloomer
Originally from New York, Todd Bloomer now calls San Antonio, Texas, his home. Todd is currently the Director of School Leadership with the Archdiocese of San Antonio. In this new role, Todd coaches and empowers principals. After 29 years in public education, including 18 years as a school leader, Todd left his dream job. As a high school principal, in the neighborhood where he lived, and the high school for all five of his children, Todd stepped away in 2025. This was not an easy decision.
Todd is proud that his first book, The Blueprint, was recently published and is now available on Amazon or his website. The book provides insight and practical advice for school leaders not only to survive but thrive as a school leader. You can follow Todd on every platform. He has recently started creating content on social media and truly enjoys it: @toddbloomer - Linkedin, @todd_bloomer_author (Instagram and Tik Tok), @bloomer_sa (X), @[email protected], http://toddmbloomer.com
For more information about how he can help you develop a blueprint for a successful school year, visit https://toddmbloomer.com
Todd is proud that his first book, The Blueprint, was recently published and is now available on Amazon or his website. The book provides insight and practical advice for school leaders not only to survive but thrive as a school leader. You can follow Todd on every platform. He has recently started creating content on social media and truly enjoys it: @toddbloomer - Linkedin, @todd_bloomer_author (Instagram and Tik Tok), @bloomer_sa (X), @[email protected], http://toddmbloomer.com
For more information about how he can help you develop a blueprint for a successful school year, visit https://toddmbloomer.com
search support team
erin baumann
Erin brings a broad range of experience in project management and communications to the GLS team. Her background encompasses work primarily at higher education institutions including Iowa State University and the University of Northern Iowa.
She also helps manage the operations of Champion's Approach LLC, a business founded by her husband and herself, which conducts instructional camps for volleyball programs across Iowa.
Erin holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Organizational Communication from Buena Vista University.
She also helps manage the operations of Champion's Approach LLC, a business founded by her husband and herself, which conducts instructional camps for volleyball programs across Iowa.
Erin holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Organizational Communication from Buena Vista University.
Amanda Bonjour
Amanda is part of the search support team for GLS. She most recently served as Middle School Principal in Maquoketa Community Schools. Originally from Waverly, she completed her undergraduate work at Central College in Pella, her masters in Education Leadership at Viterbo, and her masters in School Library Studies at University of Northern Iowa. Her work experience includes teaching middle school literacy at Pella and Dike-New Hartford, serving as K-12 Literacy coach at D-NH, a year as elementary librarian at Cody Elementary in the Pleasant Valley School District, and four years as Middle School Principal in Maquoketa.
In addition to her passion for education, she has a deep love of capturing life’s special moments and the great things happening in schools through photography. You can often find her behind a camera lens, freezing memories to cherish and share! www.bonjourphotoco.com
In addition to her passion for education, she has a deep love of capturing life’s special moments and the great things happening in schools through photography. You can often find her behind a camera lens, freezing memories to cherish and share! www.bonjourphotoco.com
Kristin HeidemanN
Kristin Heidemann is an accomplished communications and marketing professional with 30 years experience across the education, nonprofit, and telecommunications sectors. She holds a degree in Communications from Wartburg College.
Kristin spent 15 years in corporate marketing with leading organizations like Sprint Business, working in Dallas, Minneapolis, and remotely from Forest City, Iowa. During her tenure, she held roles in marketing communications, regional marketing, and product marketing, where she developed initiatives that engaged both local and national audiences.
In 2016, recognizing the need for affordable communications support for small businesses in her area, Kristin founded KLH Communications and Consulting. Since then, she has worked with school districts and for-profit and nonprofit companies. For GLS, Kristin manages much of the communication and media content.
Kristin spent 15 years in corporate marketing with leading organizations like Sprint Business, working in Dallas, Minneapolis, and remotely from Forest City, Iowa. During her tenure, she held roles in marketing communications, regional marketing, and product marketing, where she developed initiatives that engaged both local and national audiences.
In 2016, recognizing the need for affordable communications support for small businesses in her area, Kristin founded KLH Communications and Consulting. Since then, she has worked with school districts and for-profit and nonprofit companies. For GLS, Kristin manages much of the communication and media content.
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