Administrator of the Year Highlight: Secondary Assistant Principal Derek Schulte

We announced in November that Derek Schulte, secondary assistant principal for Pella High School, was named the 2024-25 Iowa Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year by School Administrators of Iowa. To get to know him better, we asked Schulte, “What about your school are you most proud of?” Here is Schulte’s response.

“What makes Pella High School truly exceptional is its pursuit of excellence in all areas, from the classroom to clubs, fine arts, and athletics. This commitment to excellence creates an environment where the process of growth and striving to do your best is celebrated. We believe education-based activities at Pella allow students to experience additional learning opportunities through their participation in activities as well as in the classroom. This is possible because we have a staff that cares deeply, builds relationships with students and are passionate about their craft. 

Collaboration is one of our cornerstones of success and a key part of our high school system. Our staff works together with each other and students that creates an atmosphere of trust and support. We see this teamwork from our staff action teams and our student council leaders as key ways to improve our school. This feedback and collaboration is critical to our continuous improvement process. 

Finally, one of our goals at Pella High School is ensuring that every student leaves high school with a well defined plan for their next step, whether it be college, training, military, or entering the workforce. Our students also have opportunities to be involved in a Work Based Learning Program that includes apprenticeship programs and certifications that provide students with a hands-on experience that prepares them for their future careers. 

Pella High School’s commitment to excellence in multiple areas is a direct result of the people in our system. It is truly an honor to be part of a staff that cares, collaborates and builds relationships to ensure this is a place for our students to learn, grow and prepare for their future. ”