MADRID, Iowa—The Madrid Community School District School Board has named Jason Gabel as the district’s next superintendent.

As high school principal in the AGWSR Community Schools, Gabel led and supported between 175 to 205 high school students, 22 certified staff, and nine support staff. He also facilitated a team that created new local graduation requirements to increase time for upper-level coursework, career and technical education and elective courses, and work experience opportunities.

Gabel was named a 2024 School Administrators of Iowa Secondary Principal of the Year nominee. He holds an education specialist degree from Minnesota State University-Mankato. Previously, Gabel served as K-2 and 6-8 principal of the Wellsburg Center in AGWSR.

“I am deeply honored and humbled by the board and district’s decision to select me as the next Superintendent of Schools,” said Gabel. “I look forward to building on the solid foundation and traditions already in place to make Madrid Schools a destination district. My family (Kelly, Grace, and Athena) and I cannot wait to become part of the Madrid community. Go Tigers!”

Board members worked with Grundmeyer Leader Services to conduct the search. Gabel interviewed with stakeholder interview groups consisting of students, parents, teachers, and community members on January 22. School Board President Lauren Clark said, “We appreciate the feedback from the interview teams in regard to our finalists. After careful review of all the information, it became clear that Mr. Gabel is the right leader to serve our district long-term. We are excited to work with him and welcome his family into our community.”

Pending contract approval at a February 12 board meeting, Gabel will officially begin leading the Madrid Community School District effective July 1, 2024.

(contributed press release and photo, MCSD)