The Ottumwa Community School District is pleased to announce that Mr. Wade Van Vark has been named Principal of Eisenhower Elementary School for the 2026–27 school year. He will succeed Mrs. Tammy Graham, who will be taking on a different leadership role for the 2026-27 school year.

Mr. Van Vark currently serves as Assistant Principal at Liberty Intermediate School, a role he has held since 2024. Before joining Ottumwa Schools, he served as the Curriculum and Work-Based Learning Coordinator at both Sigourney and Williamsburg Community School Districts.

Van Vark began his career in education as a math teacher at Pella High School before transitioning into roles as an instructional coach, Dean of Students, and building administrator. His experience spans multiple districts, including PCM, Norwalk, Sigourney, and Williamsburg, where he has demonstrated a strong commitment to academic growth and student achievement. Notably, he helped lead significant gains in ISASP proficiency, increasing math scores from 65% to 76% and language arts scores from 56% to 78% over a three-year period.

With over 25 years in education, Mr. Van Vark brings extensive leadership experience and a passion for supporting students, staff, and school communities.

“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve as Principal at Eisenhower Elementary and continue my work within Ottumwa Schools,” said Van Vark. “This community has long held a special place in my heart—from childhood memories on Minnesota Street to now having family who call Ottumwa home. I look forward to partnering with the students, staff, and families at Eisenhower to build on the great work already happening and continue striving to make Ottumwa Schools the best in the state.”

Van Vark will officially assume his role as Principal of Eisenhower Elementary School on July 1, 2026. This administrative appointment is pending board approval.