As new members of the West Branch Community school district and community, my wife Jessica, my daughters, Bryanna, Miranda and Mariah, and I are extremely excited to begin the school year.
I will be beginning my 5th year as a superintendent. Prior to West Branch, I served as superintendent of schools and high school principal at AGWSR, which is located in north central Iowa. Before becoming a superintendent I served as a principal for 9 years in two different districts (Ballard and Saint Ansgar), and was a teacher for 9 years prior to becoming a principal. I am currently working on my Doctorate at Drake University.
We are quickly learning firsthand why the West Branch school district has earned such a distinguished reputation. I can say without hesitation, that we have never felt more welcome in a new place than we do here. Everyone we meet is quick to point out the strengths of the community and school district, and offer a strong assurance that our family will love it here. I can’t express how much that means to us.
As I begin my superintendency at West Branch, my goal is clear. I intend to get to know as many students, parents, staff and community members as I can and learn about the district and communities we serve. West Branch has a strong foundation in place, with traditions built on the efforts and accomplishments of so many throughout West Branch’s history. I look forward to a beginning a process of discovering and honoring the contributions of all who have made this district what it is today.
This is called a “listening and learning” process. It is a critical first step for me as I join all stakeholders in our efforts to continue to move the West Branch Community School District forward. In education, we have a responsibility to engage in efforts toward continuous improvement. When it comes to our children, when is good actually “good” enough. If we believe in the unlimited potential of all children, the answer is that we are never satisfied and we can always do better. I believe we have the ingredients, including committed students, talented and caring staff, dedicated administration, a cohesive and forward-thinking Board of Education, and supportive parents and communities, to provide a world-class education to our students. I look forward to joining you in pursuit of providing the very best to our deserving children.
I sincerely hope for you the very best in the 2018-19 school year. I look forward to visiting with you, and whether or not you have students in school, invite you to be a part of all the wonderful things that are happening in your West Branch Community School District.
Marty Jimmerson
Superintendent