Dr. Cathy Rowe

The school corporation conducted community and staff surveys and consulted with the University Search Team, during the search for a new superintendent. The school board then reviewed many well-qualified applicants.

Zylstra noted in a statement that Dr. Rowe is a “familiar face” in the Midwest Conference. In addition to her time at North Newton Schools, she has previously served as an administrator at the Tri-County and Frontier school systems. She grew up in rural Rensselaer and lives nearby.

“She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the district,” Zylstra added. “Most recently she oversaw a major pool renovation at North Newton High School.”

The new superintendent says she has been “very impressed with West Central’s close-knit staff, unified campus, supportive school board, and flourishing athletics and extracurriculars. I love the district’s traditional values and strong community support including entities such as the Community Foundation of Pulaski County, Lifewise Academy, and many other local businesses, churches, and organizations. I look forward to helping to write the next chapter in West Central’s storied history.”

Superintendent Rowe will officially begin on July 1, but she will begin meeting with staff members over the next few months to lay the groundwork for a successful transition. 

Zylstra has accepted the position of head of schools at Pella Christian Schools in Iowa where he and his family will be closer to other family members. He has been with the West Central School Corporation since 2012, and served as superintendent since July 2019.