Tow named new Director of Secondary Teaching and Learning
By Lynn Meadows, JCSD Director of Communications
JOHNSTON, Ia. (June 10, 2025) — Kevin Tow has been selected as the Johnston Community School District’s new Director of Secondary Teaching & Learning, following board approval Monday night.
He will replace Erica Whittle, who has been named the district’s new Director of Technology, and will start his new role July 1.
Tow has worked in the Waukee school district for the past 19 years. He is currently the assistant principal of Prairieview School, where he has been for the last 5 years serving students in the eighth and ninth grades.
He previously served as an instructional coach at Timberline School (grades 8 and 9), an engineering teacher at South Middle School (grades 6 and 7), and a manufacturing/industrial technology teacher at Waukee High School (grades 10-12). Prior to that, he worked in the West Des Moines and North Polk school districts.
“As a past teacher, instructional coach, and now assistant principal, I have partnered with my building team to develop a strong school culture focused on learning and student support,” Tow said. “I have worn a variety of hats working with staff in professional learning communities, individual teacher coaching, MTSS (multi-tiered system of supports)development, transitioning to standards-referenced grading, and done so amidst an ever-changing community and political environment.”
In his new role, Tow will be part of the Johnston Community School District’s administrative team. Working under the direction of Carol Eddy, the district’s new Executive Director of Instructional Services, he will be responsible for oversight and leadership in secondary curriculum. He will assist school buildings with goals and action planning, curriculum review and development of instructional practices.
“Kevin brings to Johnston decades of experience working in several metro-area school districts,” said JCSD Superintendent Dr. Nikki Roorda. “His work as an assistant principal and instructional coach — combined with an emphasis on relationships, patience, predictability and growth — make him a great fit for this position.”
Tow received his bachelor’s degree in technology education from the University of Northern Iowa, and his master’s degree in PK-2 educational leadership from Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin. His selection will go before the Johnston Board of Education on June 9.
###