Waukee Northwest Activities Director Jim Duea Retires After Historic Career

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After 26 years of dedicated service as activities director in the Waukee Community School District — 22 years at Waukee High School and the last four at Waukee Northwest — Jim Duea is retiring, leaving behind a legacy of excellence.

Waukee High School (1999-2021)

During his tenure at Waukee High School, Duea helped build one of the most successful activity programs in the state — all while navigating rapid growth as the District doubled in size. “Watching Waukee (as one school) grow to be the largest high school in Iowa is more than I ever imagined when I started in June of 1999. The first graduation I attended had around 100 students,” Duea reflected. Under his leadership, the school achieved:

  • 6 All Sports Championships
  • 41 IHSAA/IGHSAU State Championship Teams
  • 27 IHSAA/IGHSAU State Runner-Up Teams
  • 171 IHSAA/IGHSAU Top 8 Finishes
  • 13 State Dance Team Championships
  • 9 State Competition Cheer Championships

These accomplishments reflect Duea’s commitment to student-athletes and his ability to maintain a high standard of excellence across various sports and activities.

Waukee Northwest High School (2021-2025)

Duea took on the role of activities director at Waukee Northwest High School when the school opened in 2021. In the short time since, Duea has already made a significant impact, with the following achievements:

  • 12 IHSAA/IGHSAU State Championship Teams
  • 10 IHSAA/IGHSAU State Runner-Up Teams
  • 59 IHSAA/IGHSAU Top 8 Finishes
  • 4 State Dance Team Championships
  • 1 State Competition Cheer Championship

Duea played a pivotal role in the opening of Northwest High School, helping shape it into a strong addition to the District’s legacy. “Being part of the planning of Northwest High School and overseeing the activities program for four years has been a great ending to my career in Waukee,“ Duea said. Through his leadership and vision, he has positioned the school’s athletic and fine arts programs for continued success.

A Lasting Impact

Jim Duea’s leadership has shaped the Waukee community for almost 3 decades, and his career has impacted the lives of countless Waukee CSD students, many of whom went on to play collegiate sports after graduation.

His influence extended beyond sports  — under his guidance, Duea oversaw a well-rounded array of student opportunities:

  • 24 Athletic Teams
  • 13 Performing Arts Groups
  • 15 Clubs

Duea reflected on a standout moment from his time as Activities Director, “There have been so many great memories during my time as Activities Director, but I’d say my favorite was standing in Wells Fargo Arena at the 2023 state semifinal boys basketball game between Northwest and Waukee, knowing that the packed arena was filled with the Waukee community,” Duea said. 

His commitment to competitive sports programs, fine arts, and student success has set a high standard. His influence will be felt long after his retirement. Congratulations, Jim!