Wapsie Valley Announces new 7-12 Principal - Dean Youngblut

Dean Youngblut brings more than 25 years of experience in education, with a background that spans classroom teaching, instructional coaching, and building-level administration.

Dean earned his Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Mathematics Education from the University of Northern Iowa and later completed his Master of Science in Education with an Iowa Principal Endorsement from Drake University. He most recently served as the 6-12 Principal at Nashua-Plainfield CSD, where he led initiatives focused on school climate and culture, trauma-informed practices, and student leadership development through the Leader in Me program. Prior to that role, he served as an Instructional Coach and Mathematics Teacher at Jesup Community Schools, where he worked alongside Pre-K through 12 staff in coaching cycles and contributed to district leadership and professional development.

Dean's passion for education extends well beyond the classroom. He has served as a registered wrestling official for more than 25 years, including ten years at the Boys State Tournament, and currently serves as President of the Eastern Iowa Wrestling Officials Association, where he is actively involved in mentoring and recruiting new officials. He has also held numerous head coaching positions across football, wrestling, baseball, and softball at schools throughout Iowa.

Dean and his wife Amber reside in the area and are the parents of three children — Foxe is enlisted in the Army, Dax will be a freshman at UNI in the fall, and Alexa will be entering 9th grade. The Youngbluts are a family deeply rooted in education, athletics, and community involvement — and Dean is eager to bring that same commitment to the students and staff at Wapsie Valley.

Dean looks forward to getting to know the Wapsie Valley community and building on the strong foundation already in place.

NOTICE OF SCHOOL BOARD VACANCY
 

In accordance with Iowa Code Sections 279.6-.7, notice is hereby given that a vacancy will occur among the members of the Board of Directors of the Wapsie Valley Community School District.

The vacancy will occur on May 1, 2026.  The remaining balance of the term of office for the vacant position will expire on November 2, 2027.  

It is the intention of the remaining members of the Board of Directors to fill said vacancy by appointment.  Persons interested in being considered for appointment should contact the Superintendent.  A person so appointed to fill the vacancy shall hold office until a successor is elected and qualified in accordance with law.  

The electors of the School District have the right to file a valid petition requiring that the vacancy be filled by a special election.

Dated this 2^nd day of May, 2026. WAPSIE VALLEY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

By Kim Arndt-Board Secretary

WAPSIE VALLEY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

Subject: Appointment of New Superintendent of Schools

Date: April 2, 2026

To: Wapsie Valley Students, Staff, Families, and Community Members

The Wapsie Valley Board of Education is proud to announce the appointment of Timothy (TJ) Murphy as the next Superintendent of the Wapsie Valley Community School District, effective July 1, 2026.

Following a thorough search process, the Board determined that Mr. Murphy’s proven leadership, deep-rooted connection to our community, and vision for educational excellence make him the ideal leader to guide our district into the future.

For the past six years, Mr. Murphy has served with distinction as our 7-12 Secondary Principal. During his tenure, he has been instrumental in fostering a positive school culture, improving academic outcomes, and building strong relationships with students and staff alike. His transition to superintendency ensures a seamless continuity of leadership and a steadfast commitment to the "Warrior Way."

Beyond his professional qualifications, TJ is a devoted member of the Wapsie Valley family. He and his wife, Beth, are proud residents of the district. As parents of three children who currently attend Wapsie Valley schools, the Murphy family is deeply invested in the success and well-being of our local youth and the community at large.

"It is a profound honor to be selected to lead a district that means so much to my family and me," said Mr. Murphy. "I look forward to collaborating with our talented educators and the entire community to ensure every student at Wapsie Valley has the tools and support they need to thrive."

Please join us in congratulating Mr. Murphy on his new role.