Dixon named assistant principal of Timber Ridge Elementary

Screenshot 2025 06 04 at 11.54.52 AMBy Lynn Meadows, JCSD Director of Communications

JOHNSTON, Ia. (June 4, 2025) — Ryan Dixon has been selected as the new assistant principal of Timber Ridge Elementary for the 2025-2026 school year, pending board approval June 9. He will start his new role July 1 and will succeed Michael Dana, who will be starting in a new role as the district’s math implementation specialist.

Dixon has worked as a health teacher, strength and conditioning coach, and head football coach at Valley Southwoods Freshman High School in West Des Moines for the past five years. 

He previously worked as a PE teacher and in several school leadership roles at South Union Elementary and Smouse Opportunity School in the Des Moines Public Schools. His roles include working with the school leadership team, an after-school tutorial program, behavior intervention, staff professional development, school wellness, student engagement, and crisis prevention. And before that, he worked in PE and health, and coached football and basketball in the Waterloo school district.

“We are excited to welcome Ryan to the Johnston Community School District,” Superintendent Dr. Nikki Roorda said. “He brings the experience of not only being a teacher and coach, but specifically working with school wellness, student engagement, conflict resolution, student discipline and behavior management — with a clear focus on relationship-building.”

Dixon said his leadership style is based on empathy, servant leadership and organization. His background of being a coach and former Crisis Prevention and Intervention (CPI) Lead Instructor has made him a leader in supporting crisis prevention and de-escalation strategies across the building. He’s led interventions, as well as conducted professional development to support staff in meeting student behavioral and academic needs.

In his new role, Dixon will assist the principal in providing leadership and supervision of Timber Ridge Elementary, promoting the educational development and achievement of students. He will provide leadership and direction to staff, assist in ensuring district and board procedures are met, assist with instructional program implementation, assist with financial and budgetary affairs, and promote a school environment that is safe and conducive to all students.

“I am especially drawn to Timber Ridge Elementary’s commitment to excellence, collaboration, and innovation,” Dixon said. “Your focus on developing students’ confidence and character aligns with my vision of education as a partnership between schools, families, and communities. I am energized by the opportunity to serve in a leadership role where I can foster a positive culture, support instructional excellence, and help every learner thrive.”

Dixon, from Norwalk, received a bachelor’s degree in physical education teaching and coaching, and master’s degree in educational leadership and management, both from the University of Northern Iowa. He’s a former certified Crisis Prevention and Intervention (CPI) instructor, a Special Olympics coach and coordinator, and an active Iowa high school athletic official. He previously played football for UNI.

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