1. Fort Dodge Community School District
Our Schools. Our Community. Our Pride.
For Immediate Release
08/20/2011
Contact: Ashton Newman
Fort Dodge Community School District
Director of Communications and Community Relations
515.574.5668
anewman@fort-dodge.k12.ia.us
Introducing Assistant Superintendent Rob Hughes
Fort Dodge, IA - Rob Hughes is stepping into a new Fort Dodge Community School District role - assistant super-
intendent. Hughes will play a key role in the District serving as the human resources director, lead negotiator, and
assistant superintendent.
Hughes explained his assistant superintendent responsibilities stating, “I will serve as the liaison between staff,
teachers, administrators, central office directors, and Superintendent Van Zyl.”
Hughes hopes he can serve as “another set of eyes and ears,” allowing staff and community members to have
greater access and direct input with administration.
With emphasis on collaborative partnerships, Hughes hopes he can help to maximize school improvement efforts
and student achievement.
“We cannot be successful if we work independently and without regard for the larger system,” said Hughes. “It
takes all of us.”
Relocating from Cresco, Iowa, Hughes said he is impressed with the educational opportunities and advantages of
the Fort Dodge schools. Enrichment opportunities such as Talented and Gifted, small group reading instruction at
the elementary level, and the diverse academic courses and college curriculum at the Senior High were only a few
of the offerings he explained as “tremendous.”
“Nearly half of teachers hold a master’s degree,” commended Hughes. “This speaks volumes for the commitment
and ideals of the Fort Dodge educational system.”
Hughes said he is looking forward to meeting the tenured teachers; however, he is most excited to meet the stu-
dents.
“The students will define and evidence our success,” he said.
Hughes said his initial introduction to Fort Dodge has been invigorating.
Central Administration Office
104 South 17th Street • Fort Dodge, IA 50501
515-576-1161 • Fax 515-576-1988
www.fdschools.org An Equal Opportunity Employer

2. Fort Dodge Community School District
Our Schools. Our Community. Our Pride.
Introducing Assistant Superintendent Rob Hughes
08/20/2011
-Page 2-
“People are so helpful and caring,” he said. “Ownership and commitment are easily noted.”
Hughes brings leadership and expertise to the Fort Dodge Schools, serving several key roles in his previous district,
Howard-Winneshiek Community Schools. There he led as early childhood director, principal of two elementary
schools, curriculum coordinator, district leadership team co-chair, and Title I reading director.
From lower elementary art, middle school and secondary instruction, as well as coaching, Hughes also bears various
teaching experience.
Hughes obtained his master’s degree from the University of Iowa in art education as well as his administrative cer-
tification. He then furthered his career receiving his superintendent endorsement from the University of Northern
Iowa.
Hughes and his wife Julie, an artist and previous educator in art, Talented and Gifted, and junior college instruction,
will be residing in Fort Dodge with their two daughters Hannah who will attend Senior High and Sydney who will
join Phillips Middle School.
Filling a vacancy left by Human Resources Director Pam Rodewald, who successfully served the District for 33 years,
Hughes fills the position with integrity and a desire to continue the successful education efforts of the Fort Dodge
Schools.
“It is an honor to offer my leadership, service, and support to continue the success of the Dodgers,” said Hughes. “It
is essential that we focus together on the main goals and aspirations of the District.”
Emphasizing his student centered philosophy, Hughes said, “We are here for the children - students first.”
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Central Administration Office
104 South 17th Street • Fort Dodge, IA 50501
515-576-1161 • Fax 515-576-1988
www.fdschools.org An Equal Opportunity Employer