Waukee CSD Announces New Leadership Hires
Waukee Community School District is excited to introduce three new hires who will play key roles in expanding career-connected learning, postsecondary readiness, and student success.
Waukee CSD is known for its strong focus on career preparation, helping students build the skills and experiences they need to succeed in college, careers, and life. These new hires reflect that commitment and will further expand the District’s already strong opportunities for students to explore real-world pathways and prepare for the future.
Director of Postsecondary Readiness Shane Scott
Waukee CSD is proud to welcome Shane Scott as our District’s Director of Postsecondary Readiness. Scott joins us from West Des Moines Community Schools, where he served as a teacher, principal, and most recently, as the District Curriculum Director. In this newly created role, Shane will lead and expand the District’s opportunities that prepare students for college, careers, and beyond. With nearly three decades of experience in education, Scott brings a passion for helping students connect their K-12 learning to their future goals.
“In my 27 years working with students and staff as a teacher, building administrator, and district administrator, my favorite moments are not only when students have pride in their success — but especially when they take that next step toward their future career path,” Scott shares. “I’m excited to help every student in Waukee have as many career-related experiences as possible so that all students are postsecondary ready by graduation.”
Scott is eager to start the year by building relationships with staff across the district.
“In the first few months, I plan to meet with staff in as many buildings as possible to understand what’s already working and where we can grow. Waukee already has strong systems in place — we want to polish and elevate that work so even more students are ready for what comes next.”
Scott and his family live in Adel, where his son will be a junior at ADM High School this fall.
Business Relationships Manager Lexi Shafer
Waukee CSD will welcome Lexi Shafer as our District’s new Business Relationships Manager. Shafer joins us from The Greater Des Moines Partnership, where she most recently served as Director of Workforce. Prior to that, she was a Business Teacher and Internship Coordinator at Johnston Community School District. Shafer brings a dynamic mix of classroom experience and industry knowledge to the role, and she’s ready to hit the ground running.
“I’m excited to support both staff and students with career-connected and work-based learning experiences through strong community business partners,” Shafer shares. “The opportunity to help students explore real-world career pathways is energizing!”
One of her goals will be to help maintain and strengthen the District’s already impressive business partnerships, while also identifying new opportunities to connect students with professionals in the field.
“I want to create strategic connections that showcase the many career opportunities available right here in Waukee and Central Iowa. We have exceptional young talent in our community, and I want our students to see that they can build both a life and a career here — becoming the next generation of leaders in our region.”
Shafer and her husband are proud to live in the Waukee community. They have three kids, a sixth grader at Trailridge, a fourth grader at Waterford, and a four year old.
WILC Program Administrator Kathleen Sender
Waukee CSD is excited to announce Kathleen Sender’s transition into her new role as Waukee Innovation and Learning Center (WILC) Program Administrator. A familiar face in the District, Sender has previously served as both a Work-Based Learning Manager and classroom teacher. Sender brings a commitment to student success and a passion for building strong, inclusive learning environments.
“I’m most excited about the opportunity to continue building meaningful relationships with students and staff, as well as expanding a program that supports both academic and personal growth,” Sender shares. “I’m looking forward to collaborating with a dedicated team to create impactful learning experiences that prepare students for success beyond the classroom.”
As she steps into this next chapter, Sender says she’s grateful for the opportunity.
“I’m honored to continue my tenure with Waukee Schools and step into this new role. I’m committed to the success of our students and staff and look forward to building strong connections within the school and Waukee community.”
Sender and her husband live in our District with their two kids. Their son will be a third grader and their daughter will begin kindergarten at Waterford this fall.
