Dear SEP Parents/Guardians of Students with Special Rights,
I’m excited to let you know that I am the new Southeast Polk Director of Special Education. I’ve been working with Charlie Taylor, the former director, to create a smooth transition. We know he’ll be missed and we wish him well.
I grew up in a family of six children with my younger sister having a multitude of special needs. From a young age, I watched Gwen navigate living and learning and observed my parents advocate for her in the public school system. My heart has always been with students and families who need assistance with finding individual solutions to help students learn.
I believe that every child can learn, wants to learn, and has talents that are sometimes hidden. My goal is to work together with students, families, teachers, and other staff to ensure every student is successful. I believe the best work is done when we work together to problem-solve and find ways to make teaching and learning work for all parties.
For the last 15 years, I have been the principal at Clay Elementary School. Prior to that, I served for 3 years as our Jr. High Assistant Principal, 3 years as Monroe Elementary principal at PCM and 2 years as principal at Sacred Heart K-8. My teaching career began as a special education teacher in Burt, South Tama, and Newton School Districts. I graduated from the University of South Dakota and earned my Master’s Degree from Iowa State University.
I look forward to working with you, your children, and our special education teachers and staff. I am proud to work at Southeast Polk and extremely proud to serve in this new role. Southeast Polk has a mission to help all students learn and I will do my best to serve students and families.
Thank you,
Lea Morris Director of Special Education
