BETTENDORF, IOWA (July 14, 2026) — The Bettendorf Community School District Board of Education has appointed John Elkin as Interim Superintendent for the 2026–27 school year following Board approval.
Elkin will officially begin serving the district on July 27, 2026.
The appointment provides experienced leadership during the 2026–27 school year and reflects the Board's commitment to maintaining forward momentum as it conducts a thoughtful and transparent process to identify the district's permanent superintendent. Elkin, a 1990 Bettendorf High School graduate, returns home with nearly three decades of public education experience spanning the classroom, building, district, and state levels.
Throughout his career, he has served as a teacher, fine-arts sponsor, athletic coach, assistant principal, principal, assistant superintendent, superintendent, and now Deputy Director and Chief of Staff for the Iowa Department of Education, providing executive leadership across legal affairs, communications, legislative relations, school-business operations, finance, school safety, and organizational operations.
Prior to joining the Department, Elkin served as Superintendent of the Center Point-Urbana Community School District, strengthening instructional systems, rebuilt organizational alignment, modernized district operations, and leading a successful $20.6 million bond referendum to improve district facilities and expand opportunities for students.
Board President Paul Castro said:
"John brings the experience, leadership, and collaborative approach our district needs at this important time.
“We are confident he will provide strong leadership, support our staff, continue advancing the district’s strategic priorities, champion the Board’s vision, and help position Bettendorf Community Schools for continued success.
“The Board believes utilizing an experienced interim superintendent provides the district with immediate, experienced leadership while allowing the district to continue advancing its strategic priorities during this time of transition.
“The Board will continue to share additional information about the process for the permanent superintendent with the community as it becomes available. During that time, the Interim Superintendent will work collaboratively with district leadership and staff to strengthen the organization, champion the Board's goals, continue advancing the district's strategic priorities, and position Bettendorf Community Schools for continued success.
“Throughout a career focused on building strong organizational culture, supporting instructional excellence, strengthening leadership capacity, and fostering collaborative relationships, John Elkin brings experience from both local school district leadership and statewide educational leadership.”
Interim Superintendent John Elkin said:
"It is an incredible honor to return to the community that helped shape me. Bettendorf has always been home. I look forward to listening, learning, building strong relationships, and working alongside our students, staff, families, Board of Education, and community."
Elkin earned his Advanced Studies Certificate in Superintendency from the University of Northern Iowa and holds Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Drake University.
The Bettendorf Community School District remains committed to providing high-quality educational experiences and maintaining strong partnerships that support student learning and success.
