BETTENDORF, IOWA (May 1, 2025) — The Bettendorf Community School District (BCSD) is pleased to announce the appointments of two outstanding educational leaders to principal positions within the district.
Heidi Burchard has been named the new principal of Neil Armstrong Elementary School, and Stephanie Graap will take over as the principal of Grant Wood Elementary School.
Both leaders bring a wealth of experience and a shared passion for fostering academic achievement, student well-being, and strong school communities.
Heidi Burchard
Burchard joins BCSD from the Davenport Community School District, where she currently serves as an Instructional Coach. She began her career as a first-grade teacher and brings with her a passion for early learning and instructional innovation. She holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Western Illinois University and a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Iowa State University.
Burchard is deeply committed to the success of both students and staff and is enthusiastic about this next chapter in her career. She looks forward to leading her school into the future by integrating technology, promoting social-emotional health education, and enhancing academic achievement. Her dedication to continuous professional development and collaborative leadership ensures she will create a nurturing and dynamic learning environment where all students can thrive.
Stephanie Graap
Graap comes to Bettendorf with a wealth of experience in both classroom instruction and school leadership. She currently serves as a literacy coach and teacher-in-charge in the Davenport Community School District. She holds a Master’s degree in Administration and a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from St Ambrose University, along with a Master of Arts in Professional Education from Morningside College.
Graap brings a reflective and inclusive leadership philosophy, focused on cultivating a school culture where all students and staff feel safe, valued, and supported. She believes, “Being a principal can be the most challenging and rewarding job you can have. Cultivating a culture and climate where all thrive and feel safe is a priority.” She emphasizes the importance of strong communication with stakeholders, adaptability, and being an instructional leader who encourages collaboration and continuous improvement.
A Bright Future for Bettendorf Schools
“We are thrilled to welcome both Heidi and Stephanie to our leadership team,” said Dr Michelle Morse, Superintendent of Schools. “Their unique strengths and shared commitment to student success will help propel our district forward. We look forward to the positive impact they will make in their schools and across our district community.”
Both principals will officially assume their new roles, pending board approval, this summer in preparation for the 2025-2026 school year.
