Lucas DeWitt, a 1996 graduate of Wartburg College, is Iowa’s 2013 Elementary Principal of the Year.

DeWitt has been principal of Fairview, Johnson and Lincoln elementary schools during nine years in the Spencer Community School District.

“Mr. DeWitt displays an abundance of energy and passion in working with students,” said Dan Smith, executive director of the School Administrators of Iowa, which sponsors the annual award. “He relies on a strong moral code to serve as a role model and as a basis to make decisions every day.” 

“It is a blessing and privilege to work with the families, students and staff in Spencer,” DeWitt said. “The teachers’ passion to help each student fulfill his or her potential is inspiring, and it is an honor to be associated with the great people who are part of the Spencer Community Schools.”

DeWitt began his teaching career in the Hampton-Dumont Community School District after receiving a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and U.S. and world history from Wartburg College. He earned a master’s degree in history and certification in PK-12 educational administration at Iowa State University and completed his superintendent certification at the University of Northern Iowa. 

DeWitt was nominated by his peers, selected by a committee of Iowa elementary principals, and will be recognized at a governor’s awards ceremony in May. The National Association of Elementary School Principals will honor him as a National Distinguished Principal this fall in Washington, D.C.