School News

Announcing New Olmsted Interim Principal June 2022

Announcing Our New Olmsted Interim Principal

After completing an extensive interview process in order to find the best candidate to serve as our next leader of Olmsted Elementary, we’re excited to share that Ms. Jolee Donnelly has accepted the position of Interim Principal for the 2022-23 school year.

Jolee DonnellyMs. Donnelly brings a wealth of educational leadership experience to this role as she has been serving as our UHS Dean of Students for the past two years. Prior to that, Ms. Donnelly served as a UCSD Facilitator of Curriculum and Professional Learning for two years as well as an English teacher for ten years with one year at West Liberty High School in West Liberty, Iowa, two years at Taft High School in San Antonio, Texas, and the remaining seven years at UHS.  While Ms. Donnelly is excited to apply the knowledge and expertise gained throughout her 14 years of service at the secondary level, she is eager to broaden her leadership experience at the elementary level in order to build strong relationships with Olmsted students, staff, and families.

In addition, Ms. Donnelly has first-hand experience of being a J-Hawk as she is a proud UHS alumna. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Iowa with Certification in Secondary Education and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Iowa.

“I look forward to collaborating with Olmsted staff, students, and families to build a culture of excellence with safe, equitable learning spaces that are supportive and accepting of all students,” said Donnelly. “The journey of a lifelong learner begins at Olmsted and I am excited to be part of the journey!”

In discussion with Ms. Donnelly, we proposed an interim position for the 2022-23 school year as we recognize the importance of ensuring a good fit for both the building leader and Olmsted students, staff, and families. Pending Board approval, we look forward to welcoming Ms. Donnelly to the position of Olmsted Elementary Interim Principal for the 2022–2023 school year beginning July 1. We’re thrilled to continue working alongside this exceptional leader as she is a trusted, respected, and highly valued member of our Urbandale team.