Dave Holmes will retire at the end of the school year and will be replaced by Pete Rosenkranz
La Center School District Superintendent Dave Holmes announced at last week’s school board meeting his plan to retire at the end of this school year.
Holmes’ career in education spans nearly 30 years and includes such notable accomplishments as the passing of two school levies to fund critical educational programs and operations and the passing of a $48 million bond to build a new middle school. He began his work in K-12 education as a substitute teacher in La Center in 1993 and held roles as a math instructor, assistant high school principal, high school principal and assistant superintendent before taking on his current superintendent role.
“Dave has been an incredible leader for the La Center School District,” said La Center School Board Chairman Todd Jones. “His thoughtful guidance and collaborative style have been instrumental in La Center’s advancements over the last five years.”
“We have accomplished some incredible things during my time with La Center,” Holmes said. “While there have been highs and lows along the way, I feel fortunate to have spent my career working collaboratively doing what is best for our students.”
Recognizing that the district would benefit from a proven education leader with an excellent understanding of the district’s needs during this very difficult time, the board voted unanimously last Tuesday evening to enter into contract negotiations with Pete Rosenkranz, La Center’s current assistant superintendent, to be the next superintendent effective July 1.
“Pete has the experience and heart for the position,” Jones said. “I know he will continue to do amazing things for La Center.”
Rosenkranz has worked in education for the past 29 years, having spent the last seven at La Center School District. He started his work with the district as the assistant high school principal, then special education director, and currently serves as assistant superintendent. Rosenkranz has led the district’s COVID-19 planning to return students to the classroom safely, and collaboratively led the district in their development of a strategic improvement plan. For the last five years, Pete has been designated by the board as the administrator to fill the superintendent role in their succession planning process.
“Pete is the right person for the job,” Jones said. “He understands our school district and what our students and staff need. That’s invaluable in a leader, especially during such a difficult time as a global pandemic. While we will miss Dave greatly, La Center is in good hands.”
Information provided by La Center School District.
