New Principals Named
The Linn-Mar Community School District is proud to announce two new elementary principals for the 2022-23 school year!
Theresa Kirkman will be the new principal at Westfield Elementary. She will replace Ed Rogers who is retiring at the end of the current school year.
Since 2015, Kirkman has served as an elementary school principal in the West Burlington School District. Prior to that she worked as assistant principal and became principal at Danville Junior/Senior High School. She holds a Master of Arts in Educational Administration and a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education. She began her teaching career in 2000. Kirkman has taught reading and language arts as well as at-risk students and children with behavioral disorders in the Burlington and Danville Community School Districts.
“I am extremely grateful and thrilled to be joining Linn-Mar and the team at Westfield Elementary. Having the opportunity to learn and lead in a district that has an abundant amount of pride and community support, talented/hardworking educators that clearly go above and beyond for kids, and a true “family feel” is so exciting for me professionally and personally. When I left the Linn-Mar main campus after interviewing with several staff members, I knew I wanted to be a Linn-Mar Lion! I cannot wait to meet the staff, students, and families at Westfield Elementary! Go Lions!” said Kirkman.
Sara Hovden will become the new principal at Novak Elementary. She will replace Carol O’Donnell who is also retiring at the end of the current school year.
Hovden is currently the Associate Principal at Hazel Point Intermediate School. She has been a part of the Linn-Mar family since 2014 when she became the art teacher at Wilkins Elementary. Hovden began her teaching career in Silver Lake, Minnesota in 2003. She holds a Master of Arts in Teaching and a Bachelor of Science in Art Education.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to add to the rich history of Novak Elementary. During my time at Linn-Mar, I have been incredibly fortunate to learn from inspiring leaders, educators, and students; all of whom have had a profound impact on who I have become as a leader and learner. I strive to continue the legacy that Linn-Mar has established and look forward to building strong collaborative relationships with students, staff, and the community.” said Hovden.
In making the announcement, Linn-Mar Superintendent Shannon Bisgard said, “We are ecstatic to be able to hire two wonderful people and outstanding educators to lead Novak Elementary and Westfield Elementary. Sara has served in many roles during her tenure with Linn-Mar, so her knowledge of the district and her skills as an instructional leader make her a perfect fit for Novak.
Theresa brings a wealth of administrative experience from southeast Iowa. Her positive energy and ability to connect with people will serve Westfield Elementary well. She will also be a wonderful addition to our Linn-Mar administrative team.”
The district wants to thank Ed and Carol for their commitment, dedication, and service to the Linn-Mar community and wish them the very best in retirement. The new principals will work with the current administrators in the coming months to allow for smooth transitions. Hovden and Kirkman will officially begin their new positions on July 1st, pending board approval.