Central Lee narrows super search to three

DONNELLSON — The Central Lee Community School District School Board has selected three finalists for the district’s next superintendent: Dr. Chace Ramey, Stacey Schmidt, and Chad Wahls.
The board partnered with McPherson & Jacobson to conduct the search and review all qualified candidates.
Currently, Ramey serves as deputy superintendent of the Iowa City Community School District, where he helps lead a district of approximately 14,500 students. His experience includes work in human resources, operations, school improvement, and policy development, along with prior leadership roles in large, urban school systems. Ramey holds a doctorate in education and a law degree from the University of Iowa and has experience teaching graduate-level courses in education policy and law.
Schmidt currently serves as director of student services for the Atlantic Community School District, where she oversees programming, including special education, gifted and talented, and at-risk services. She also leads efforts in fiscal planning and compliance. Her previous experience includes serving as a PK-12 principal, with a strong background in instructional leadership and professional development. Schmidt holds a master’s degree in education from Southwest Minnesota State University and an education specialist degree and superintendent endorsement from the University of Sioux Falls.

As superintendent of the New London Community School District, Wahls oversees district operations, budgeting, facilities improvements, and strategic planning. His leadership experience includes work in financial management, enrollment growth, and community partnerships. He holds a master’s degree in educational administration from Viterbo University, as well as a certificate of advanced studies in PK-12 superintendent and AEA administration from the University of Northern Iowa.
As a next step, the search team will conduct formal interviews with the finalists on Friday, May 8. The board intends to make a final decision following the interview process.
Stephen Murley of McPherson & Jacobson out of Omaha is conducting the search for the Central Lee Board of Directors to replace Dr. Andy Crozier who's headed to Waukee starting this summer.
The next superintendent will begin leading the Central Lee Community School District effective July 1, 2026.