Crosse Selected as Assistant Activities and Athletics Director

Johnston, Iowa – Melissa Crosse has been selected as the new assistant activities and athletics director for the Johnston Community School District. She will assume her new role effective July 1, 2020.

Melissa Crosse

Crosse is well-versed in the world of athletics, activities, and community programming. She comes to Johnston from the Saydel Community School District, where she served as the Director of Activities and Community Education. Prior to Saydel, she spent five years in the Chicago Public School system, where she was the Athletic Director/Health & Physical Education Department Chair. Crosse has also been a classroom teacher.

In each of her roles, Crosse has worked directly with students, staff and administrators, and community members to bring about new and/or improved outcomes of health and well-being, school spirit, and equity.

“We are thrilled to have Melissa join the Johnston team,” said Laura Kacer, JCSD Superintendent. “Her experience as a teacher, administrator, and community leader is a perfect fit for this position and we believe her skills will be a great addition to our administrative team.”

As the new assistant activities and athletics director, Crosse will work alongside JCSD Activities and Athletics Director Josh Tobey to streamline program offerings for all students in grades 8-12. Crosse will specifically oversee middle school activities and athletics, including event coordination, coach evaluation, student needs, and compliance. Approximately 680 students in grades 8-9 participated in at least one activity or athletic program during the 2019-20 school year.

“The Johnston Community School District has a rich tradition of excellence, and I am honored to be a part of it,” said Crosse.

Crosse holds a bachelor’s degree from Illinois State University (Normal, Ill.) in Health & Physical Education and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership-Administration from Concordia University (Chicago). She also holds a Professional Administrator License and is a PK-12 Principal/PK-12 Special Education Supervisor Evaluator.

She is a member in a number of statewide organizations, including the IGHSAU Girls Basketball Advisory Committee (Chair), IHSAA Strategic Planning Committee, Iowa High School Athletic Directors Association, and the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association.

The Johnston Board of Education is expected to approve Crosse’s appointment at the May 4 board meeting.

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