Superintendent Search

The Southeast Polk Superintendent Search

The Southeast Polk Community School District is beginning the search for its next superintendent following the upcoming retirement of Dr. Dirk Halupnik at the end of the school year. The school board is seeking a leader who will continue to build on SEP’s strong tradition of academic excellence, student opportunities, and community partnerships.

This page will serve as the central hub for information about the superintendent search process, including key dates, opportunities for community input, and updates as the search progresses. Our goal is to ensure a transparent process that reflects the values of our schools and community. Please check back here often for updates!

Superintendent Search Timeline

TIMELINE: Click here to see a more detailed schedule/timeline for our Southeast Polk Superintendent Search: Superintendent Search_Hiring Timeline 2025-2026

SEARCH FIRM PRESENTATION: Click here to see Grundmeyer’s presentation at the January 8 School Board Meeting: January 8, 2026, School Board Meeting livestream. Art Sathoff from GLS began presenting at the 1:16:25 mark of the video.

Search Firm Approved by Board

The Southeast Polk School District has engaged Grundmeyer Leader Services to guide the Board of Education through the search for the district’s next superintendent. Since conducting its first search in 2013, GLS has grown into a trusted partner for school districts seeking visionary, effective leadership.

>Check out their presentation at the January 8, 2026, School Board Meeting: January 8, 2026, School Board Meeting livestream. Art Sathoff from GLS began presenting at the 1:16:25 mark of the video.

Grundmeyer Leader Service’s comprehensive and personalized hiring search process begins with planning the search timeline, salary, and benefits, followed by identifying desired qualifications and advertising the position to recruit candidates. Applications are reviewed, interview teams and questions are established, and semi-finalists are screened before moving into formal interviews. The process continues with feedback and debriefing, a job offer to the successful candidate, a public announcement, and concludes with transition planning and entry plan development to ensure a smooth and successful onboarding.

Background Check overview

For interview finalists, GLS, in partnership with 3rd Degree Screening, conducts a rigorous background review that includes reference checks, national criminal background screening, state licensure and education verification, social media review, federal civil rights records, and sex offender registry searches. Southeast Polk completes required employment eligibility steps, including E-Verify/SAVE, I-9 verification, and a national criminal background check. This coordinated approach provides confidence in the final selection and supports a well-informed hiring decision.

Superintendent Search survey closed January 9

As we begin the search for our next district leader, we want to ensure the voices of our staff, students, families, and community members help guide this important decision. Your input is essential in helping the School Board identify the strengths, qualities, and priorities we should seek in our next superintendent.

Please take a few minutes to complete these questions by clicking on the yellow button. You may choose to include your email address or remain anonymous. Please take a few minutes to complete these questions by January 9, 2026! Thank you!