Des Moines, Iowa – The Des Moines Public Schools (DMPS) Board of Education voted unanimously on Tuesday to appoint Matt Smith as the district’s next full‑time superintendent. Smith, who has served as the district’s associate superintendent since 2018 and previously stepped in as interim superintendent twice, will now lead the district with a three‑year rolling contract.
Experience rooted in Des Moines schools
Smith’s career with DMPS began in 2010 when he became principal of Des Moines North High School. He moved to the role of executive director of learning services in 2013, then chief schools officer in 2014, before being named associate superintendent in 2018. Over the past 16 years, he has overseen classroom instruction, curriculum development, and district operations, giving him a deep understanding of the community’s educational needs.
Board confidence and community focus
“Matt Smith has demonstrated, time and again, that he is the right leader for Des Moines Public Schools,” said Kimberly Martorano, chair of the DMPS Board of Education, in a news release. “His steady hand, deep commitment to our students and families, and proven ability to move this district forward make this an easy and unanimous decision. We are proud to name him our Superintendent.”
Smith expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him, noting the emotional significance of the appointment. “Having an opportunity to be trusted with the role of the superintendency is hitting me at an emotional level that I didn’t actually anticipate,” he said. “As the kids say, I’m feeling all the feels.”
Stability and a “community legacy”
One of Smith’s top priorities is providing long‑term stability after several years of leadership turnover. He emphasized a collaborative approach, aiming to build a “community legacy” rather than a personal one by working alongside staff, families, and community partners.
Smith also highlighted the district’s ongoing “Reimagining Education” initiative and the five‑year strategic plan focused on improving student outcomes and expanding educational opportunities. He said the new contract, which includes a starting annual salary of $293,883.90, a $600 monthly vehicle reimbursement, district‑paid health and retirement benefits, and funding for an executive coach, will allow him to continue these long‑range initiatives.
Commitment to transparency and trust
Smith pledged to be visible throughout the district and to follow through on commitments made to families. “A big part of building trust is to listen first and then follow up,” he said. “We want to make sure that we said that we would do these things, and we’re going to deliver on these things.”
The board’s decision comes after former superintendent Ian Roberts resigned following his arrest and subsequent conviction for falsely claiming U.S. citizenship and illegal firearm possession. Roberts, who led the district from July 2023 until his resignation, is serving a two‑year federal prison sentence and is expected to be deported to Guyana after completing his term.
Looking ahead
With Smith at the helm, DMPS aims to continue its focus on academic excellence, family engagement, and community partnership. The board will conduct annual performance evaluations and may extend the contract one year at a time, ensuring accountability and sustained progress for Des Moines students.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
