The Mount Pleasant Community School District Board of Education has named three finalists in its search for the district’s next superintendent.
Following a review process conducted with Grundmeyer Leader Services, the board selected Dr. Sharon Dentlinger, Ken Kasper, and Derek Philips as finalists for the position.
Dr. Dentlinger currently serves as an assistant professor of practice and superintendent program coordinator at the University of Northern Iowa, where she prepares aspiring superintendents and leads strategic planning efforts. She also serves as director of special education for the Knoxville Community School District and previously worked as superintendent and curriculum director for the Interstate 35 Community School District.
Kasper is the current superintendent for the Garner Hayfield Ventura and Rudd Rockford Marble Rock Community School Districts. During his tenure, district academic ratings improved and student participation in advanced coursework and career programs expanded. His background also includes roles as a principal, assistant principal, and science teacher in several Iowa districts.
Philips serves as principal of Davis County High School in Bloomfield, where he oversees staff and students in grades nine through twelve. His experience includes implementing instructional feedback systems, strengthening professional development, and improving staff retention. He has also previously served as superintendent of the Pekin Community School District.
Formal interviews with each finalist are scheduled for Tuesday, December 16. The board plans to discuss the candidates and make a final decision following the interviews.
The selected superintendent is expected to begin leading the district on July 1, 2026.
Attached is the announcement from Mt. Pleasant Community School District