Indianola High School Principal Jeff Siebersma has been named the next superintendent of the Cherokee Community School District.
The Cherokee Community School District Board of Education approved his hiring during a special meeting Tuesday morning.
Siebersma was selected from a field of 14 applicants identified through a search led by Grundmeyer Leader Services. Three finalists were interviewed in a single day, and the board reached a consensus to offer him the position on April 22, pending contract approval and a background check.
Siebersma brings nearly 14 years of administrative experience at the high school level, including seven years as principal in Indianola. His work there has included oversight of building operations, student services, instructional leadership and major facility projects, including a large‑scale high school construction initiative. His background also includes school safety planning, professional development and service on district leadership teams.
He holds a master’s degree in PK‑12 school administration from Wayne State College and is expected to complete his superintendent licensure program at Drake University in May. Siebersma has said publicly that the move brings his family closer to their home community in the Mapleton area and represents the next step in his long‑term goal of district‑level leadership.
Outgoing superintendent Tom Ryherd will finish his duties on June 30 before beginning his new role as superintendent of the Perry Community School District. Siebersma will officially take over as superintendent in Cherokee on July 1.
