Sheldon, Iowa — A Sheldon educator has received a statewide honor.
According to Lisa Remy, Executive Director of School Administrators of Iowa, Jason Groendyke, principal of East Elementary in the Sheldon Community School District, has been named the 2024 Iowa Elementary Principal of the Year by that organization.
Remy says, “Congratulations to Jason Groendyke on being selected as the 2024 Elementary Principal of the Year! [Groendyke] was selected by his peers because he embodies the belief that every child is special, unique, and valuable. His dedication to creating a positive culture where everyone sees the immense potential in each student is truly inspiring.”
Remy tells us Groendyke has been the principal at East Elementary since 2014 and was previously a teacher at the middle school. His career began as a sixth and seventh-grade teacher at Albert City-Truesdale. He earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education with endorsements in reading and coaching from Northwestern College, and he holds a master’s degree in PK-8 educational leadership from the University of Sioux Falls.
Groendyke summed up his experience in this leadership role by quoting President Theodore Roosevelt, “Far and away the best prize that life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.”
We asked Mr. Groendyke how he feels about the honor.
Groendyke was selected by a committee of Iowa elementary principals and will be recognized at the association’s annual conference.
Remy tells us the National Association of Elementary School Principals will also honor him as a National Distinguished Principal.
