March 29, 2024

Marx selected as new middle school principal

The final new administrator for the PCM School District is now in place. Levi Marx was selected as the new PCM Middle School Principal, starting in the position July 1.

“It has been quite a week in hiring some major pieces to our administrative team at PCM. The last piece — the middle school principal — is a critically important position as we move forward as a district with continued focus on student achievement,” PCM Superintendent Michelle Havenstrite said. “We feel very fortunate to have Mr. Marx joining us as our next middle school principal. He brings outstanding experiences to this position; you will also find his structure and passion for the students and staff to be contagious! Join me in welcoming Levi and his family to PCM.”

For the middle school principal position, the desired qualifications included: demonstrates strong instructional leadership; is highly collaborative in his/her approach to leadership and decision-making; is visible in the school and community; models clear expectations for staff and students; and possesses strong communication skills. From a pool of 35 applicants received by Grudmeyer Leader Services, who was contracted by the district to assist in the search, eight semi-finalist candidates were selected and first interviews were conducted. From there, three finalists were chosen and on-campus interviews took place May 21. Along with the interview, which consisted of two groups, a mixed team of parents, community members, teachers, support staff and board members and a group of administrators and directors, the candidates also went on a district and community tour.

After collecting data and feedback from the interview groups, Havenstrite offered the position to Marx, who accepted and was approved by the school board.

Marx is currently 7-12 principal at Moravia Community School District, a position he has been in for three years. He also taught industrial technology at Okoboji Community School District for 10 years.

During his time at Moravia, Marx has been instrumental in implementation of MTSS at the secondary level, updating curricular offerings and increasing professional development and leadership capacity among the staff. He is well respected for his no-nonsense manner while still being very supportive of staff, students and families.

“My family and I are excited to be part of the PCM team,” Marx said. “I look forward to carrying on the strong traditions of excellence that are part of PCM.”

Marx joins new administrators Donita Geetings, elementaries principal and Jeremy Swink, activities director, in the district. All candidates were approved for hire by the school board at its May meeting.

Contact Jamee A. Pierson at 641-792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com