(Harlan) Harlan Schools Superintendent Justin Wagner submitted his resignation to the Harlan School Board on Monday. Wagner was hired as Harlan’s High School Principal in 2007 and took over the schools Superintendent’s position in 2010.
Mr Wagner tells KSOM/KS95 News there were some allegations published earlier in the year and he denied those allegations at that time and still does. During a joint statement at Monday’s board meeting, an independent investigator stated Mr Wagner has done nothing illegal or participated in any illegal activity.
When asked about his reason for resigning, Wagner, who serves as a Colonel and Chief of a Joint Staff for the State of Iowa, pointed to his seven-month deployment overseas next month. He felt resigning was the right thing to do. “I’ve had a fantastic 12-year’s in Harlan and had the opportunity to work with some great people.
Additionally, Wagner says he’s been fortunate to have been a part of several outstanding teams in his life in two different careers.
“Our School Board received the “Making a Difference Award” in 2015, which goes to the best boards in the state,” noted Wagner. “We earned a “Blue Ribbon” School District a couple of years back, and the district won numerous state championships. ‘I’ve been able to see those accomplishments first hand.”
Wagner says in 2011 he was in Afghanistan during one of the deadliest times. He was a member of the 101st Airborne unit that received the outstanding unit award, along with several other unit awards during his 25-plus years in the Iowa Air National Guard. He says those serving in the Iowa Air Guard are doing an outstanding job.
Meanwhile, Wagner says he’s been fortunate to experience what it means to be part of some great teams in the military and mentions Harlan Community Schools as one of those great teams.
“I just want people to know Harlan has those foundations,” said Wagner. “Harlan has great people and great kids, and the high school is one of the top 15-percent of schools in the State of Iowa. The district is in a perfect spot academically and financially. We’ve made a lot of hard decisions over the past years, but I feel good about where we are as a district.”
In closing, Wagner says his church Pastor talks a lot about grace and grit, something he adheres to in his life.
“It’s good to be positive during the tough times as well as the good times,” stated Wagner. “For those going through some difficult times, grace and grit are two important things to remember.”
Justin Wagner’s contract runs through June 30, 2020. However, his last day on the job will be June 2, 2019, the day of his seven-month deployment overseas.
