Dr. Dirk Halupnik strives to develop a learning community at Southeast Polk that focuses on the success of students, is open and conducive to meaningful change and constantly works toward improvement and innovation.
Halupnik was appointed Superintendent in 2015 after serving as Deputy Superintendent of the Linn-Mar School District in Marion. His teaching career began in Dike, Iowa, where he served as a 7th through 12th grade science teacher and coach. He later served as an advanced placement biology, microbiology, anatomy, and physiology teacher at Cedar Falls High School where he also coached varsity football, baseball, and track. He holds a doctoral degree from the University of Northern Iowa.
Throughout his career, Dr. Halupnik has worked hard to promote a safe, positive school culture and climate that reflects a strong student-centered educational philosophy and actively includes students, staff, administrators, parents, and the community. Dr. Halupnik cites working with people and building relationships as his greatest strength.
Dr. Halupnik is married with two sons. His mother, father, grandmother, mother-in-law, father-in-law, and numerous other family members have all been educators. He has served as a mentor to several prospective administrators and has enjoyed watching those groups succeed.
His favorite leadership quote is,
“Leaders only succeed when those around them have success.”
