Tom Messinger becomes Newton’s next superintendent

Tom Messinger is the newest superintendent for the Newton Community School District.

On Friday, Newton administrators announced Messinger, the superintendent of Red Oak Community School District for the past five years, has been offered the position for the 2020-21 school year. He will be replacing the current superintendent, Bob Callaghan, who will be resigning June 30.

Messinger was excited to accept the position. He was ultimately chosen from two other candidates — Nicole Kooiker of Ottumwa Community School District and Chad Straight of Belle Plaine Community School District — interviewed in-depth by the school board the day before.

“It was amazing to see the level of pride everyone displayed in the Newton Community School District. It is truly an honor to have the board select me to be a part of it,” Messinger said in a press release.

Prior to his stay at Red Oak, Messinger worked as a high school principal, activities director, assistant principal, math teacher and coach. He also involved himself in his community serving Kiwanis, the Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development Board.

Newton's newest superintendent is a graduate of Adair-Casey High School. Messinger earned a bachelor's degree in math education from the University of Iowa in 1993 and a master's degree and specialist degree from Drake
University. His work has awarded him a number of awards.

Messinger was named the 2019 Administrator of the Year from the Association of Agriculture Educators and Outstanding Administrator by the Iowa Association for Career and Technical Education.

Grundmeyer Leader Services, a superintendent search firm, assisted the NCSD Board of Education in its process to find a new “Red Pride leader.” The board considered feedback from more than 65 stakeholders, including students, support staff, parents, teachers, administrators and local leaders.

Robyn Friedman, president of the school board, said, “The school board is excited to have Tom join our district, and we are confident his communication and collaboration skills will be a great fit for the district and community. We look forward to having him join our Newton Community School District team and becoming a Newton Cardinal!”

Messinger’s leadership experience includes leading a $29 million facilities project with a $19 million general obligation bond in Red Oak, the press release said. The bond issue passed with 77 percent support. This resulted in new facilities for the district also improving the financial condition of the district.

Messinger will officially begin his first day as superintendent of the Newton school district July 1.

Contact Christopher Braunschweig at 641-792-3121 ext. 6560 or cbraunschweig@newtondailynews.com