PELLA, IA — The Pella Community School District School Board has named Dr. Kyle Koeppen as the district’s next superintendent.
Dr. Koeppen is the superintendent of the Vinton-Shellsburg Community School District, where he leads an organization of approximately 1,600 students and 320 staff members. During his extensive tenure as superintendent, the district has secured over $2 million in competitive grants, including statewide workforce and childcare initiatives.
While leading Vinton-Shellsburg CSD, Dr. Koeppen also earned his doctorate in education from the University of Iowa, with a concentration in educational policy and leadership. He completed his doctorate in December 2025, with a dissertation focusing on the impacts of absenteeism and the effectiveness of intervention.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Kyle Koeppen to the Pella Community Schools Team and his family to Pella,” said Board President Elisa Klahsen. “His enthusiasm and experience will help us carry our tradition of excellence forward. As each year brings unique challenges, we will work together to continue to bring an exceptional education to our students. Go Dutch!”
Before beginning his experience as a superintendent, Dr. Koeppen served as principal of Prairie Point Middle School and 9th Grade Academy in Cedar Rapids. Throughout his career, his work has focused on improving student engagement, addressing chronic absenteeism, and implementing early warning systems and multi-tiered intervention frameworks.
“I am honored to serve as the next superintendent of the Pella Community School District,” Dr. Koeppen said. “Pella has a proud tradition of excellence and a strong sense of community, and its commitment to preparing everyone to learn, lead, and achieve is evident throughout the district. My family and I are excited to join the Pella community, and I look forward to partnering with the board, staff, families, and community members to honor what makes Pella special while thoughtfully preparing our students for the future.”
Board members worked with staff at Grundmeyer Leader Services to conduct the superintendent search to allow ample time for a transition before the next school year. Dr. Koeppen will officially begin leading the Pella Community School District effective July 1.
