Scott Tjeerdsma ’07
Pella, Iowa

As an advocate for children of all ages, Scott Tjeerdsma’s dedication and growth mind-set has led to great success as a teacher and coach.

Tjeerdsma graduated from Wartburg in 2007 with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education with mathematics and special education endorsements. He was a member of the Wartburg track and field team and earned All-American honors all four years and was an Academic All-American twice. He completed his master’s degree in educational leadership at Viterbo University in 2015 while teaching full time and is currently pursuing additional coursework in an athletic director program at Morningside College.

Since his graduation from Wartburg, he has served the Pella Community School District in various capacities. He began his career with the district teaching fourth grade before switching to seventh-grade math. He now serves as the middle school’s athletic director and dean of students.

Tjeerdsma is an active volunteer in his community. He directed and founded the Pella Track Club for elementary and middle school students, which has grown to approximately 100 youths. He serves on the leadership team of the Leader in Me program, which focuses on developing the whole child and helping them grow their knowledge and skills to contribute positively in the world. He also volunteers on the board for the Klompen Classic, a fundraiser for a program that provides support services to community members in need.

His nominators described his leadership and strong work ethic coming from a “servant heart.” In particular, they mentioned his desire to work with students who struggle to learn. His supportive demeanor and genuine interest in their success, while also holding them accountable, has allowed him to develop positive relationships with all the students he teaches and mentors.

Tjeerdsma and his wife, Julia, are active members of Second Reformed Church of Pella and have three children. He has served as a deacon and led service/mission trips to Haiti and New Mexico through his church.