Our next introduction is our new Mid-Prairie Alternative Learning Center teacher and head Girls Basketball coach, Jenny Hobbs. Jenny earned her degree at Iowa State University and enjoys watching the Olympics and the Cyclones. She loves to garden and tend to her array of animals at home. #mphawks

We would like to introduce our new School Nurse at MP-West Elementary and MP High School, Heather Plank. Heather is a Mid-Prairie graduate from the class of 2010, and she earned her BSN from Mount Mercy University in 2016. She loves spending time outside in her flower and vegetable gardens, thrifting for all the good deals, and spending time with her family and friends. She is married to her high school sweetheart, Jude, and they have two children, Jayleigh and Huxlee. They also have two miniature Australian Shepherds, Addy and Lambeau. She’s excited to join the Mid-Prairie district as a staff member! #mphawks

Mid-Prairie ALC Open House for all ALC students and families is scheduled for August 19th from 6-7 pm. #mphawks

Did you know that School Board Elections are coming this fall? Would you consider running for a seat on the School Board, or do you know of someone you would like to encourage to run for the School Board Election? *Three Board seats will be on the ballot. *The filing period to file your paperwork with our School Board Secretary, Jeff Swartzentruber, begins Monday, August 25th, and closes at 5pm on Thursday, September 18th. *Check out our Elections page for more information including the required forms and a candidates guide at: https://www.mphawks.org/district/leadership/school-board/elections Contact Jeff at jswartzentruber@mphawks.org or 319.646.6093 ext. 503 for information and questions. Are you passionate about the education of our students while serving in an advisory role? Would you be a voice for Mid-Prairie Schools? Every Student! Every Day!

Attention Parents of Incoming 9th Grade Students - Please see the letter from Mr. Banks about orientation. #mphawks

Next, we would like to introduce another one of our new 2nd-grade teachers joining MP-East Elementary, Emma Johnson. Emma graduated from Buena Vista University in May of 2024, majoring in Elementary Education and earning an endorsement in Reading K-8. Ever since she was a little girl, she always had a passion for teaching and working with others. Emma loves to travel and has been to eight countries so far. Other than traveling, you can find her relaxing with a good book, drinking Starbucks coffee, spending time with family, or shopping. #mphawks

We would like to introduce another one of our new 2nd-grade teachers joining MP-East Elementary, Myah Lugar. Myah earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a Reading K-8 Endorsement and Coaching K-12 Endorsement from the University of Iowa. She loves spending time with family and friends, running, being outside, playing the guitar, and coffee! #mphawks

If you've been thinking about running for the school board, the Iowa Association of School Boards offers some great free resources to learn more about key issues. These fast-paced, one-hour webinars will offer practical guidance, legal insights, and essential governance knowledge. Check them out!

September 3 - Legal & Ethical Campaigns for the School Board - https://iasb.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_fIMgFvxWT-W6y2tisXPndw#/registration

September 24 - The Building Blocks of Financial Advocacy -
https://iasb.zoom.us/meeting/register/lrgSUslRTCu_HnqQKcxEQA#/registration

October 15 - Student Learning: Do Boards Really Make a Difference? -
https://iasb.zoom.us/meeting/register/HHyU9xsKRaO-wt1BQ4mg6w#/registration

Next, we would like to introduce our new district Special Education Director and 504 Coordinator, Doug Stafford. Doug is a seasoned Oklahoma educator whose roots are in special education, along with school and district leadership experience. With a transformational approach to teaching and leadership, he places a strong emphasis on collaboration, data, and parent involvement, and focuses on student futures. Doug has two daughters and one granddaughter. In his free time, he enjoys reading and spending time with family. #mphawks

Did you know that School Board Elections are coming this fall? Would you consider running for a seat on the School Board, or do you know of someone you would like to encourage to run for the School Board Election? *Three Board seats will be on the ballot. *The filing period to file your paperwork with our School Board Secretary, Jeff Swartzentruber, begins Monday, August 25th, and closes at 5pm on Thursday, September 18th. *Check out our Elections page for more information including the required forms and a candidates guide at: https://www.mphawks.org/district/leadership/school-board/elections Contact Jeff at jswartzentruber@mphawks.org or 319.646.6093 ext. 503 for information and questions. Are you passionate about the education of our students while serving in an advisory role? Would you be a voice for Mid-Prairie Schools? Every Student! Every Day!

We would like to introduce our new District Teacher Librarian, Cate Burke. Cate is originally from San Diego, California, but loves all Iowa has to offer. She currently lives in Iowa City with her husband, 17-year-old twins, dog, and tortoise. As an avid reader with 9 years of experience working in school libraries, Cate is passionate about education, literacy, and supporting student learning. She’s excited to be a part of Mid-Prairie and is looking forward to celebrating all of our students’ successes! #mphawks

Please see the letter from Principal Chuck Banks detailing a new policy being implemented at MPHS. You can also check out some helpful Frequently Asked Questions using the link below. #mphawks
https://tinyurl.com/PEDFAQS

Next, we would like to introduce our new Special Education Teacher joining Mid-Prairie Middle School, Caroline Gross. Caroline earned her degree from the University of Northern Iowa. She has always wanted to be a teacher, so she’s grateful to be starting her dream job here at Mid-Prairie. Caroline loves to read, go on walks, be outside, and play all sorts of card games. She also loves to travel and visited Jamaica this summer. It was her first time out of the country, and she can’t wait to explore more of the world! #mphawks

As we begin the 2025-2026 school year, we would like to introduce some new staff members joining Mid-Prairie! Please help us welcome them as we get started on a great year.

We would first like to introduce one of our new 2nd-grade teachers joining Mid-Prairie East Elementary, Nicole Stanley. Nicole earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education with an endorsement in Social Studies from Iowa State University. She grew up in the Chicago suburbs, but has decided to stay in Iowa after falling in love with how quiet, calm, and green it is here. She is most excited to build relationships with her students and families, as well as get to know the community. Nicole loves hiking, trying new restaurants, and spending time with her friends and family. #mphawks

Did you know that School Board Elections are coming this fall? Would you consider running for a seat on the School Board, or do you know of someone you would like to encourage to run for the School Board Election? *Three Board seats will be on the ballot. *The filing period to file your paperwork with our School Board Secretary, Jeff Swartzentruber, begins Monday, August 25th, and closes at 5pm on Thursday, September 18th. *Check out our Elections page for more information including the required forms and a candidates guide at: https://www.mphawks.org/district/leadership/school-board/elections Contact Jeff at jswartzentruber@mphawks.org or 319.646.6093 ext. 503 for information and questions. Are you passionate about the education of our students while serving in an advisory role? Would you be a voice for Mid-Prairie Schools? Every Student! Every Day!

Did you know that School Board Elections are coming this fall? Would you consider running for a seat on the School Board, or do you know of someone you would like to encourage to run for the School Board Election? *Three Board seats will be on the ballot. *The filing period to file your paperwork with our School Board Secretary, Jeff Swartzentruber, begins Monday, August 25th, and closes at 5pm on Thursday, September 18th. *Check out our Elections page for more information including the required forms and a candidates guide at: https://www.mphawks.org/district/leadership/school-board/elections Contact Jeff at jswartzentruber@mphawks.org or 319.646.6093 ext. 503 for information and questions. Are you passionate about the education of our students while serving in an advisory role? Would you be a voice for Mid-Prairie Schools? Every Student! Every Day!

Don't forget to sign up for Mid-Prairie Football Camp the first week of August! #mphawks

Did you know that School Board Elections are coming this fall? Would you consider running for a seat on the School Board, or do you know of someone you would like to encourage to run for the School Board Election? *Three Board seats will be on the ballot. *The filing period to file your paperwork with our School Board Secretary, Jeff Swartzentruber, begins Monday, August 25th, and closes at 5pm on Thursday, September 18th. *Check out our Elections page for more information including the required forms and a candidates guide at: https://www.mphawks.org/district/leadership/school-board/elections Contact Jeff at jswartzentruber@mphawks.org or 319.646.6093 ext. 503 for information and questions. Are you passionate about the education of our students while serving in an advisory role? Would you be a voice for Mid-Prairie Schools? Every Student! Every Day!

🌟 Mid-Prairie Virtual Academy: Now Enrolling for the 2025-2026 School Year! 🌟

Discover an educational experience that fits your life—without compromising on quality. At Mid-Prairie Virtual Academy, students benefit from a supportive, flexible, and academically rigorous environment that empowers them to thrive.

🎓 Why Choose Mid-Prairie Virtual Academy?

Flexible Learning Schedule – Learn when and where it works best for you

Rigorous Online Curriculum – Challenging coursework that prepares students for college and beyond

Certified Teachers – Professional educators guiding student success

Supportive Environment – Thrive without the added stress of traditional peer dynamics

Pursue Your Passions – Perfect for students balancing community college courses, athletic training, or other commitments

Stay Connected – Participate in extracurriculars at Mid-Prairie or join up to two activities in your resident district

Whether you're looking for academic flexibility, a focused learning environment, or the freedom to chase your goals, Mid-Prairie Virtual Academy is your partner in success.

📅 Enrollment is open for the 2025-2026 school year!

👉 Learn more and apply today to shape a school experience that works for you. For more information on enrollment, visit our website, https://www.mphawks.org/schools/mid-prairie-virtual-academy, or email fslabaugh@mphawks.org.

Did you know that School Board Elections are coming this fall? Would you consider running for a seat on the School Board, or do you know of someone you would like to encourage to run for the School Board Election? *Three Board seats will be on the ballot. *The filing period to file your paperwork with our School Board Secretary, Jeff Swartzentruber, begins Monday, August 25th, and closes at 5pm on Thursday, September 18th. *Check out our Elections page for more information including the required forms and a candidates guide at: https://www.mphawks.org/district/leadership/school-board/elections Contact Jeff at jswartzentruber@mphawks.org or 319.646.6093 ext. 503 for information and questions. Are you passionate about the education of our students while serving in an advisory role? Would you be a voice for Mid-Prairie Schools? Every Student! Every Day!