Please direct inquiries to:
Evan Marten, 641-472-2655
evan.marten@fairfieldsfuture.org 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 22, 2024

Fairfield School Board Names 2 Superintendent Finalists

FAIRFIELD, IA — The Fairfield Community School District School Board has named two finalists for the district’s next superintendent. 

The finalists are Chad Wahls and Zach Wigle. Each brings extensive experience in educational leadership and a commitment to student growth and achievement. 

Wahls currently serves as superintendent of the New London Community School District. With more than 25 years of experience in education, he has served as an administrator for all grade levels, from preschool through 12th grade.

During his tenure as superintendent in New London, the district achieved significant milestones, including the successful completion of a $3.25 million facility renovation and the passage and execution of a $6.1 million renovation and new facility bond. Additionally, Wahls facilitated the continuous growth of district educators by expanding professional learning community (PLC) work throughout the district. 

Wahls holds a master’s degree in educational administration from Viterbo University and an advanced studies certification in educational leadership-superintendent from the University of Northern Iowa. He also received a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Upper Iowa University.

 Wigle has spent nearly two decades serving in education across Iowa. Throughout his career, he has held various administrative roles, including district activities' director, intermediate school principal, special education director, and, most recently, high school principal in Solon, Iowa.

Wigle also previously served as a high school principal in Keokuk. During his tenure there, he implemented strategies that significantly improved student outcomes, as evidenced by various metrics, including achievement data, dropout rates, and culture surveys. In Solon, Wigle spearheaded initiatives to enhance the district's career and academic planning program, emphasizing the importance of the learning process at the secondary level and identifying essential skills for every graduate.

Wigle holds a bachelor’s degree from Luther College, a master’s degree in education administration from Grand Canyon University, and an advanced studies certification-superintendency from the University of Northern Iowa. He and his wife, Julie, have two children: Mallory and Brady. 

A public forum with both candidates will be held on Wednesday, February 28, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the Middle School Commons.

This forum provides an opportunity for any interested member of the community to participate in the selection process. Attendees will have the opportunity to submit questions, written on an index card, which the candidates will then answer. Additionally, feedback—collected in the same manner as committee members—will be reviewed by the School Board.

The new superintendent will begin serving the Fairfield Community School District on July 1, 2024.

###

Note to Editor: Photos of Chad Whals and Zach Wigle.