Kruthoff Named New Community Education Director

Following the retirement announcement of long-time Johnston Community Education director Nancy Buryanek, Scott Kruthoff has been selected as the new director, effective May 1, 2020.

An internal search for the director’s position was held in mid-February; following interviews, Kruthoff was selected and the announcement was made to Community Education staff on March 2.

Kruthoff was hired in 2018 as program manager for the Johnston Community Education program, where he oversees the recreation programs, including programming options, staffing, operations, and conduct.

Johnston Community Education serves as a partnership between the Johnston Community School District and City of Johnston, and aims to provide educational, enriching, and athletic opportunities for all community members. Community Education offers affordable enrichment, fitness, and sport classes for youths and adults – in addition to before and after child care at the elementary (K-5) level, preschool for ages 2-3, and aquatic programs.

Prior to coming to Johnston, Kruthoff was the executive director of the Indianola YMCA. He was part of the team that opened the facility in 2013 and had a hand in all day-to-day and executive management aspects of the organization, including membership development, retention, programming, and fundraising. Kruthoff has also spent time as an executive director and position-specific director at other suburban YMCAs, adding to his overall knowledge in the area of community-wide education and programming to meet the needs of audiences.

“This internal promotion speaks to the strong structure and culture of growth existing in our Johnston Community Education program,” said Dr. Bruce Amendt, associate superintendent for school leadership. “Scott has a great background with the YMCA and we’re excited to see what kinds of ideas and connections he can continue to develop as he takes on this administrative position.”

Kruthoff holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Leisure, Youth and Human Services from the University of Northern Iowa, with specialized education in Nonprofit Administration, Program Service administration, and Youth Services. His Master’s Degree is in Recreational Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

“I am looking forward to building on the solid foundation for Community Education that Nancy has built,” said Kruthoff. “I am excited to continue working with our staff team as well as building connections within the school district and the Johnston community.”

The JCSD Board of Education is expected to approve Kruthoff’s promotion at the March 9 board meeting.