Introductory letter from your new superintendent
I want to start by expressing how excited I am to be a part of the Stanton Community School District. I thank the school board, staff, and community for giving me the opportunity to serve as the Superintendent. I would like to take a moment to let you know who I am and where I am from. I grew up in Modale, Iowa, and graduated from West Harrison Community School District. I participated in football, basketball, wrestling, track, and baseball growing up. I then moved on to Iowa State University and received my Bachelor’s Degree in December, 1999, in Elementary Education. I applied for a job and was hired by Riverside that spring, and I started teaching in the fall of 2000 at the Middle School in Carson, Iowa. I taught 5th grade Math and Science for six years then taught Jr. High Science for three years. I also coached Jr. High/High School football, Jr. High wrestling, Jr. High track, and High School baseball during my time teaching.
In the fall of 2009, I began my job as the Riverside High School Principal. Since then, I received my Master’s Degree in Education as well as my Educational Specialists Certificate from Iowa State University. My role as the Jr./Sr. High Principal was a challenging job that required clear expectations for the students and staff. Leaving that position, I am proud to say that staff members truly care about the students, and one another, and are achieving at record levels for the school district. I appreciate my educational experiences, as I know I am prepared to be a leader in your district.
My philosophy for education is centered on the belief that every student can learn. This learning is going to look different from student to student, and we may need to adjust based on each student’s individual abilities. We want every student to thrive in our district, and one of the most important things an instructor can do is create a positive relationship with the students he/she comes into contact with each day. Getting to know students on an individual level is vital to helping them succeed. Students don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care!
I am ready, excited, and grateful for the opportunity to lead your school system. There will likely be many challenges along the way. However, as we make decisions with our students’ best interests being considered, we will continue to grow as a great educational system.
Go Viqueens and Vikings!
David Gute, Superintendent