(Atlantic) The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors visited Atlantic High School to welcome new Principal Dr. Jim Brauer and hear more about his vision for the school and the community.
Dr. Brauer and his family have lived in Atlantic since 2012. His wife, Mandi, is a middle school special education teacher, and their two sons attend Atlantic Community Schools. After years of working in education, Dr. Brauer said the opportunity to become principal was one he had hoped for, even though he never expected it to come along when it did.
As he steps into the role, Dr. Brauer wants to build on the history and traditions already in place at Atlantic High School while continuing to move the school forward. A big part of that is changing the story people hear about the school.
Dr. Brauer said every decision and interaction creates an experience, and those experiences become the stories students and families share with others. Over time, those stories shape the culture and reputation of a school.
“I want to bring the true, proud story of Atlantic High School to the outside,” Dr. Brauer said.
He has already started building connections throughout the community by reaching out to local organizations, elected officials, first responders, and other community partners. He sees those relationships as an important part of strengthening the school and creating more opportunities for students.
The school is also putting more emphasis on sharing the good things happening inside its walls. Dr. Brauer and the activities department are working to increase social media and local media coverage, including student stories and highlights. The activities department is also starting a “Participant of the Week” feature to recognize students who make a difference, whether through athletics, activities, academics, or simply helping someone in their school or community.
Brauer shared a clear goal with the Ambassadors: he believes Atlantic High School can become the best high school in southwest Iowa. He emphasized that students can have fun, enjoy their high school experience, and still be held to a high standard.
For more information about Atlantic Community Schools, visit www.atlanticiaschools.org or follow Atlantic High School and Atlantic Trojan Activities on Facebook.
Pictured (Left to right): Kelsey Beschorner, Grace McAfee, Julie Waters, Anne Quist, Peter Gray, Kennedy Freund, Jessie Oswalt, Chris Parks, Brynn Lamp (Student Council President), Jeremy Butler, Dolly Bergmann, Alivia Knuth (AHS Fuel President), Amanda Christensen, Nellie Pelzer (NHS President), Elaine Otte, Dr. Jim Brauer, Tyler Comes, Ruth Sears, Kate Olsen, Steve Andersen, Jennifer McEntaffer, Becky Schroeder, Madelyn Schmidt, Graydon Schmidt, Kathie Hockenberry, Bill Saluk, Angie Bitting, Cammey Klindt, Janet Cappel, Connie Wailes, Lana Westphalen
