Bartello Named New Lawson Principal

Tom Bartello has been selected as the new principal of Lawson Elementary in the Johnston Community School District.

Tom Bartello

Bartello is currently the principal of Thomas Jefferson Elementary, a pre-kindergarten through fourth grade school in the Newton Community School District. He has spent the majority of his career with Newton schools, starting as fifth grade teacher and moving into an instructional coaching role before becoming a school administrator.

“Mr. Bartello comes to Johnston with a strong skillset related to his training in staff professional development and building management,” said JCSD Superintendent Corey Lunn. “His experiences as an elementary teacher, instructional coach, and elementary principal will be an asset to our district.”

In his current position at Thomas Jefferson Elementary, Bartello provides instructional leadership for all building staff members and creates a strong relationship between the school and community. He has provided leadership and expertise to school-wide initiatives related to student behavior, associate evaluations, data collection, elementary building configuration, and management of a preschool program.

Bartello has worked in an administrative capacity for three years. He holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Northwestern College (Orange City). In 2015, he received his master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Iowa State University, with endorsements in administration and evaluation.

“I am excited to support the mission and vision of the Johnston Community School District in my role as the new Lawson Elementary principal,” Bartello said. “I am ready to come in and be a part of the team that takes all staff and students on an educational journey to excellence. I look forward to connecting with Lawson staff members and families in the near future.”

At the April 3 board meeting, specifics of Bartello’s two-year contract will be finalized and approved. His official start date is July 1, 2017.

Bartello currently resides in Ankeny with his wife, nine-month old daughter and their two dogs.

Outgoing Lawson Elementary principal Trisha Lenarz-Garmoe announced her retirement as a school administrator in February. She has elected to stay within the district and will serve students and families as an elementary behavioral interventionist.

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