Congratulations to MISD’s very own 2022 Central Office Administrator of the Year, Gretchen Kriegel, Assistant Superintendent! Gretchen was recognized by the School Administrators of Iowa.
Kriegel has been in her current role for three years. She has a BA in education from Winona State University and a MA and Specialist’s degree in educational leadership from Drake University. After graduation she worked as grade 9-12 special education teacher at Benton Community Schools, then served as curriculum and special education director at Monticello Community School District.
She was nominated for the award by District Behavioral Coach Tyler Denton who shared,” Gretchen joined the Marion Independent School District in 2019. Immediately I was able to recognize the value of her contributions to the district through her passion for education and willingness to support and exemplify the core values of MISD. Upon accepting my current position of District Behavior Coach in 2020, I was uncertain about how to traverse the upcoming school year. My hesitations were always met with enthusiasm and encouragement to be okay making mistakes and embrace lifelong learning. When circumstances get rough, you can count on her to be by your side and see you to the finish!”
In a letter of support for her nomination Erin Steffen, Marion School Foundation Executive Director shared, “the joy and laughter she brings has lifted the entire morale of the district’s leadership team over the past two years. Despite the challenges that have come with our community’s recovery from the Derecho and the impacts of the pandemic, when you would expect staff morale to be at its lowest, her leadership has been unwavering and her ability to build trust and confidence in those around her is second to none.”
“Congratulations to Gretchen for being selected for this honor! One of the hallmarks of her leadership is her ability to build great relationships with everyone she encounters and help them find the best in themselves. Doing so helps her provide an outstanding learning environment and maximize student outcomes in Marion ISD,” said SAI Executive Director Roark Horn.
A committee of Iowa central office administrators selected Kriegel, and she will be recognized at the association’s Annual Conference in August. Congratulations Gretchen, you are an asset to the Marion Independent School District!