The Prairie Lakes AEA Board of Directors has selected Dr. Dan Mart to be its new Chief Administrator.
Currently the interim superintendent at Keokuk Community School District, Mart has served in educational leadership roles for 25 years. He has been a PK-12 principal for the Terril and Graettinger districts, where he also served as the shared superintendent. He was the superintendent at North Polk Community School District prior to moving into the interim superintendent role with Keokuk.
His experience in both rural and mid-sized Iowa school districts, connections and work with legislators, and experience with enacting a strategic plan stood out with the Board of Directors. He has successfully served as a leader of districts with rapid enrollment as well as those with declining enrollment.
"Those who know Dan share that he is a collaborator, communicator, hard worker, and problem-solver," said Sue Brown, Prairie Lakes AEA Board President. "Dan understands the value of the AEA system and is committed to our mission of ensuring equitable, efficient, and effective educational services that prepare all Iowa children for a life well-lived.
In his new role, Mart will oversee more than 235 full- and part-time staff members who provide special education and school improvement services along with technology and media support to the 47 public, and accredited nonpublic schools in 14 counties of north central and Iowa. The agency’s services are available to about 32,000 students and 3,000 educators.
The Prairie Lakes AEA Board of Directors will formally approve his contract at Monday night's board meeting. Once approved, Mart will begin his new role on July 1. He will succeed Dr. Susie Meade, who has led the agency since 2020.
