WDMCS welcomes three administrators either new to the district or in new roles for the 2026-27 school year, pending Board of Education approval on May 11. Learn more about these building and district leaders below.

Rod Dooley: Chief HR Officer (CHRO)

Rod has provided strategic and relationship-focused leadership as interim Chief HR Officer since December, following 1.5 years as Human Resources director. In both roles, he oversaw all aspects of human resources from recruiting and hiring to employee relations, talent development, and compliance, all in alignment with the district’s strategic plan. Rod brings more than 25 years of human resources experience from the private sector to the role, as well as K-12 experience as an administrator, principal, and teacher.

 

 

 

Sue Lawler: Crestview Principal

Sue has served as interim principal of Crestview since December, after 2.5 years as assistant principal. She has been “a driving force behind (Crestview’s) growth in reading proficiency and student achievement over the past three years,” one reference said. We are thankful to Sue for providing steady, positive leadership as interim principal, remaining student-centered and collaborative during a time of transition. Her ability to build relationships with family and staff has directly impacted student success and Crestview’s culture.

 

 

 

Lindsay Thilges: Fairmeadows Assistant Principal

Lindsay is a thoughtful, student-centered teacher who has served Waukee Schools since 2015. She has served on the building leadership team, co-created an MTSS framework to improve attendance, and collaborated to increase student reading scores and ensure growth toward students’ IEP goals. Lindsay previously taught first, third, and fourth grades in Ankeny and Waukee. She holds a PK-12 principal certification through Viterbo University, as well as a master’s of science in teaching from Drake University and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Iowa.