OSKALOOSA — Big changes are bringing double the dedication to Oskaloosa Elementary School for the 2025-26 school year, as the district introduces a dynamic co-principal leadership model for the first time. Pending school board approval, two familiar faces will step into the shared role: Kailey Hills, who has served as the Elementary Associate Principal, and Katie Trainer, the Director of Oskaloosa Preschool. Together, Hills and Trainer bring a deep understanding of the district and a shared passion for nurturing young learners, ready to lead with teamwork, energy, and a strong commitment to student success.
The two leaders will officially begin their new duties on July 1 and are already actively involved with several aspects of the position. With Hill’s vacancy in the AP role, the two are leading the search for a new Associate Principal for the elementary school, and both are actively involved in district-wide vision culture leadership.
For Kailey Hills, stepping into the co-principal role is all about connection. “My top goal in this new position is to build strong, trusting relationships with students, families, and the community,” Hills shared. “I believe that when we work together and feel connected, we can create a truly supportive environment where every child feels seen, valued, and empowered to grow.” With a heart for collaboration and a commitment to the whole child, Hills is eager to listen, learn, and walk alongside students as they grow, academically, socially, and emotionally
“I’m honored to step into this new role and continue the incredible momentum we’ve built at Oskaloosa Elementary over the past three years,” said Kailey Hills. “We’ve seen measurable academic growth and a powerful shift in behavior leadership that has transformed the way we support students. I’m excited to keep moving forward, working alongside our dedicated educators to create a world-class learning environment where every child feels a sense of belonging and is equipped to thrive both in and out of the classroom.”
Katie Trainer enters her new role as co-principal with a deep appreciation for the strong foundation already established at Oskaloosa Elementary. “My goal as the new PK-5 Co-Principal is to continue moving forward the incredible work already happening at OES,” Trainer said. With a focus on collaboration, consistency, and shared leadership, she’s eager to tap into the strengths of the entire PK-5 team. Her vision centers on building safe, engaging, and inclusive learning environments where every child can thrive and every voice is valued.
“I’m super excited to continue the work we’ve been doing at Oskaloosa Elementary,” said Katie Trainer, reflecting on her new role as co-principal. “It’s an honor to keep serving the students, staff, and families in this community. I truly believe in the incredible team we have here, and I’m looking forward to building on the positive momentum that’s already in place.” With a background in early childhood education and expertise in behavior leadership, Trainer brings both experience and heart to her new position, ready to support students in meaningful and lasting ways.
Hills and Trainer will be working with the current Associate Principal, Steven Sattz, who will expand his leadership role by taking on additional district special education responsibilities, while continuing to serve the OES campus.
“We’re excited to introduce the co-principal model at Oskaloosa Elementary, and we couldn’t ask for two more capable leaders to take on this role than Kailey Hills and Katie Trainer,” said Superintendent Dr. Mike Fisher. “Both bring a wealth of experience, a deep understanding of our students’ needs, and a proven commitment to academic and emotional growth. They’ve played key roles in shaping the vision culture at OES and all Oskaloosa campuses.”
Hills earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Northern Iowa and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Drake University. She has spent all eight years of her career in education at Oskaloosa Schools, where she previously taught 4th grade and has served as Associate Principal for the past three years. Hills lives in Oskaloosa and is married to her husband, Brenden. They have two children: Ellie, who will start preschool next year, and Tripp, who turns one in August.
Trainer brings a strong background in early childhood education, having taught preschool and kindergarten special education in Waterloo Schools, preschool in Pella Schools, and kindergarten and KinderPrep at Oskaloosa before serving as the Early Childhood Director. She is married to Corey Trainer, a mental health therapist at Eunoia and former K-1 school counselor at OES, where he served for 11 years. Together, they have two sons, Sebastian and Sullivan, who are currently in 3rd and 1st grade at OES. The Trainer family loves being part of the Oskaloosa community and enjoys everything it has to offer, from summer band concerts on the square to programs at the George Daily Auditorium and playing pickleball at Trio.
