Iola-Scandinavia selects new elementary principal

IOLA – The Iola-Scandinavia School District has approved the appointment of Jeremy Fritz as the new principal of Iola-Scandinavia Elementary School.

Fritz brings nearly 25 years of educational experience to the district and will assume his new role on July 1. He was recommended for the position by District Administrator Chris Nelson and selected from a pool of 14 applicants after a four-candidate interview process.

“It is an honor to be chosen to serve this community,” Fritz said. “I look forward to getting to know students, families, staff and community members, and to building on the strong foundation already in place here.”

Fritz replaces Molly DuPont, who resigned in May after holding the position for about nine months.

Fritz most recently spent five years serving the Montello School District as dean of students, assistant principal and activities director for grades 7-12. Prior to his administrative work, he spent 20 years as a middle school choir director across rural and urban districts.

During his career, he has taught fifth-grade music, coached boys and girls basketball, directed more than 25 musicals, and served as an internal coach for Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), and supported staff in classroom management, structure, and educator effectiveness.

Fritz holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and a master’s degree from Cardinal Stritch University. He is licensed as both a K-12 principal and a director of instruction.

Nelson cited Fritz’s educational experience, professionalism and ability to relate to students and staff in his administrative recommendation.

“I have learned throughout my career that great schools are built on strong collaborative relationships and a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment,” Fritz said. “I look forward to continuing to foster those building blocks here in Iola-Scandinavia.”

Fritz said he is committed to open communication, shared decision-making and ensuring every student feels a sense of belonging, safety, and support.

Fritz and wife Carissa have three children, Kaden, Kara and Caelyn, and enjoy weekend road trips, time at their cabin, hiking, fishing, kayaking and canoeing.

Staff, parents, and community members will have several opportunities to meet Fritz at the elementary school. Meet and greets are scheduled for July 20 and Aug. 3 from noon to 2 p.m., and he will also be present during the elementary school open house on Aug. 26 from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

Also during last week’s meeting, the school board approved hiring Edward Vaillancourt as the middle and high school choir teacher, Molly Heiser as a kindergarten teacher and Hayden Nelson as a high school math teacher.