Spiegel named Johnston’s Assistant Director of Special Education

JOHNSTON, Ia. (Feb. 18, 2025) — Tiffany Spiegel has been selected as the Johnston Community School District’s new Assistant Director of Special Education, pending approval by the school board. This is a brand new position created to serve the district’s growing needs in special education. 

Spiegel has served for the past seven years as the Director of Student Services for the Shenandoah Community School District. Prior to that, she worked as an elementary principal. She’s also taught elementary special education, served as an instructional coach and was a behavior interventionist for eight years in the Omaha Public Schools. Spiegel is scheduled to begin her work in Johnston on July 1.

“My strengths in team building, collaboration and leadership have consistently allowed me to drive positive outcomes in my past roles,” Spiegel said. “I am confident in my ability to lead and inspire teams to achieve the district’s goals for all students.” 

In her new role, Spiegel will be a member of the JCSD Administrative Team. She will support Director of Special Education Shawna Shanahan in managing the district’s special education programs and services. She will be responsible for implementing systems of leadership, support and guidance for district and special education staff to ensure compliance with IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and related federal and state laws, rules and regulations.

“Tiffany Spiegel brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our district and we are thrilled to welcome her as our new Assistant Director of Special Education,” said JCSD Superintendent Dr. Nikki Roorda. “She has consistently demonstrated the ability to build strong relationships with students, teachers and families. We are confident that Tiffany’s proven leadership and passion for supporting students with unique needs will have a positive impact on our school community.”

The Johnston Community School District’s special education department serves about 800 PK-12 resident students and 100 non-resident students throughout the school year. The district works with Heartland AEA to provide occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech services as well as technical assistance and professional learning to meet the diverse needs of all students. 

Spiegel holds a master’s degree in educational administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and an administration endorsement from Viterbo University. Prior to that, she earned her bachelor’s degree in special education from the University of Iowa. 

Her selection is expected to go before Johnston Board of Education for approval next Monday, Feb. 24.