New principal named at Washington Elementary

By James Grob, jgrob@charlescitypress.com

Nanette Smith will begin leading as the Washington Elementary School principal this summer, and she said that high-quality instruction for the youngest Comets is her top priority.

“I strive to continue to provide an environment at Washington Elementary School where everyone feels valued and can learn at high levels,” Smith said. “I have a passion for mental health, behavior and high-quality instruction.”

Smith will replace Kara Shannon, who has resigned effective at the end of the current school year. The school board approved Smith’s appointment, at a salary of $108,000, at Monday’s meeting.

Smith is currently the preschool-third-grade principal at West Marshall Community Schools in State Center. She will begin her new leadership role in the Charles City Community Schools on July 1.

Smith grew up on the family farm near Britt with her parents, two brothers, and a sister. Her first teaching position was as a special education teacher in Kirksville, Missouri. She has also worked in Southeast Polk, Greene County Middle School in Jefferson and Prairie Lakes Area Education Agency.

She earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education and behavior disorders from the University of Northern Iowa and her master’s degree in educational administration from William Woods University Fulton, in Missouri.

“The Charles City Community Schools’ mission really spoke to me, and it’s clear these aren’t just words written on paper but truly lived by the students and leadership,” Smith said. “I can definitely feel the family atmosphere. Everyone has been extremely welcoming.”

Smith said her major objectives will be building relationships with the Charles City Community Schools staff and families and being a part of the strategic planning for the 2021-22 school year.

“We are thrilled and delighted that Nanette is joining our family,” said Mike Fisher, Charles City superintendent of schools. “Her passion for kids and our mission and vision was crystal clear in our time with her. Her leadership will be invaluable as we continue to grow as the Regardless School.”

Smith will be moving to Charles City with her cat, Marshall, named after the West Marshall school district. Once settled in Charles City she may be looking for a dog, with a heavy likelihood its name would be Comet.