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The Northwood-Kensett Community School District and St. Ansgar Community School District school boards have named Tony Hiatt as the districts’ next shared superintendent.

As director of elementary education at Pleasant Valley Community School District, Hiatt collaboratively oversees pre K-12 programming for a district of approximately 6,000 students. He has led initiatives at all six elementary schools earning and sustaining “Exceptional” or “High-Performing” ratings on the Iowa School Performance Profiles and spearheaded efforts to expand the district’s Teacher Leadership System.

“Thank you to everyone who was involved with my interview,” Hiatt said in a news release. “I’m excited and grateful to serve the Viking and Saint students, staff and communities. Our family is looking forward to our transition and settling into these communities as well.”

Bradley Christianson, Northwood Kensett Community School District board president, said he is thrilled to welcome Hiatt to the position.

“We look forward to seeing the impact he will make on our school and community,” he said.

Steven Groth, St. Ansgar Community School District board president, said while they were impressed with all the finalists for the role, Hiatt demonstrated a commitment to strong leadership, academic growth for all students and support for teachers and staff.

Hiatt holds a master’s degree in educational administration and principalship and an advanced studies certificate in superintendency from the University of Northern Iowa, where he anticipates completing his doctoral degree in 2027. With more than 25 years of experience in education, Hiatt also served as a regional administrator at the Mississippi Bend Area Education Agency in addition to leadership positions as an elementary and middle school administrator.

Board members worked with Grundmeyer Leader Services to conduct the superintendent search. Hiatt interviewed with the boards and stakeholder teams on Monday. He will officially begin leading the Northwood-Kensett and St. Ansgar districts on July 1.