Union Community Schools Names Mary Peterson Next LPC Elementary Principal

April 16, 2024

LA PORTE CITY, IA — The Union Community School District Board of Education approved Mary Peterson to be the district’s next principal of La Porte City (LPC) Elementary School at their regular board meeting on Monday, April 15, 2024.

As a literacy coach in the Waterloo CSD, Peterson has facilitated professional learning around Iowa Core Standards, effective instructional strategies to promote visible learning, and differentiated instruction for staff. She brings two decades of experience in educational roles.

Peterson holds a master’s degree in educational leadership with a PK-12 administrator license from the University of Northern Iowa, as well as a master’s degree in education from Viterbo University. She began her career as a classroom teacher in Waterloo.

“I am deeply honored and excited to accept the position of principal at LPC Elementary,” said Peterson. “I look forward to starting my new journey of serving the staff and students of LPC Elementary, committing to empowering learning environments where everyone feels valued, challenged, and supported so they can reach their full potential.”

Corey Lorenzen, Board President for the Union Community School District, stated, “The district is excited that Mary Peterson is the new principal at  La Porte City Elementary. Mary’s experience, leadership, and positive energy will be tremendously impactful for the students, staff and parents. Congratulations, Mary!”

Board members and administrators worked with Grundmeyer Leader Services to conduct the search. Peterson participated in interviews with the administrative team and two mixed interview teams consisting of staff and parents on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. She also received a building tour from outgoing principal, Todd Parker. 

Peterson will officially begin leading LPC Elementary School on July 1, 2024.