Mid-Prairie School District announced Thursday, May 12, that Fairfield High School principal Brian Stone, 53, has accepted the position as Mid-Prairie Superintendent of Schools effective July 1.

Stone will replace long time superintendent Mark Schneider  who has resigned effectve June 30.

“I am very excited to become Mid-Prairie’s new superintendent,: Stone told The News. “The school district has a lot of good things going and I am anxious to join the already vey good staff.” Stone said that both he and his wife of over 30 years, Carla, are excited and anxious to become part of the Mid-Prairie Community.”  He commented he was very impressed with the community representatives that he had an opportunity  to meet during the interview process.

Stone said he and Carla are active members  of the Catholic church in Fairfield and are also involved in community events. “We plan to be invoted in the  community activities in Wellman and Kalona also,” he said

After conducting an extensive interview process, the Mid-Prairie Board chose  Stone from the finalists. The board felt that Brian’s commitment to the district, leadership abilities and dedication to the job was the best option for the district long-term. Brian was excited to accept the position, stating, “I am humbled and excited to serve as the next Mid-Prairie Superintendent.  My wife Carla and I look forward to being part of the community.  I will work hard for the district and am eager to get started.”

As high school principal in the Fairfield Community School District, Stone has focused on strong communication with staff, students, and community members while providing monthly updates to board members. He has also coordinated conferences, worked to implement new professional development initiatives, and provided teacher feedback through classroom visits and walk-throughs.

Previously, Stone was high school principal and activities director in the Pekin CSD, overseeing a building with 190 students and 40 staff members. He has also been a middle school and elementary school social studies and math teacher. Stone has served as an assistant varsity coach for baseball, girls’ basketball, and football. 

Stone holds a master’s degree in educational administration from Drake University and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Buena Vista University. He also received an advanced studies degree from the University of Northern Iowa.

The Board of Education worked with Grundmeyer Leader Services to conduct the superintendent search. Stone will begin serving as superintendent of the Mid-Prairie Community School District effective July 1, 2022.