SCCSD superintendent Gausman chosen as finalist for national education honor
Dr. Paul Gausman, superintendent of Sioux City Community Schools in Sioux City, Iowa is recognized as
one of the finalists for National Superintendent of the Year, as awarded by the National Association of
School Superintendents.
“Paul is an incredible student advocate and a true example of a role model for teachers and leaders,”
said Sonny Da Marto, NASS Associate Executive Director. “He has guided strategic efforts to improve
academic achievement and graduation rates, strengthen student’s access to technology, and implement
programs to prevent school-based bullying.”
Dr. Gausman became Sioux City Community Schools’ superintendent in 2008 following three years as
superintendent of West Central School District in Hartford, South Dakota. He has also served as a
coordinator of middle school education and fine and performing arts. He received his undergraduate
degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Master’s Degree at the University of Nebraska-Omaha,
and a doctoral degree from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, MN.
Sioux City Community School District has more than 14,000 students in more than 20 schools.
“I accept this honor on behalf of the hard work of our Board, the 2,000 staff members and nearly
15,000 students,” said Dr. Gausman. “I am honored to be a part of the team that has placed progressive
and student-centered programs at the heart of the Sioux City School District and in service to our
community.”
As superintendent, Dr. Gausman has worked in collaboration with district colleagues to enhance
opportunities for students. The district has implemented the largest 1:1 student computing initiative in
the state. SCCS was labeled one of the 100 original Future Ready districts in the nation, including being
earmarked as a Digital Equity Program, and a Next Generation High School district by the United States
Department of Education and White House. The district has implemented progressive programs
through Specialty Elementary Schools, as well as middle school STEM-focused exploratory offering and
Career Academy high school offerings. The district has also been honored with the Best Communities for
Music Education designation.
In collaboration with administrators, teachers, staff, and stakeholders, Gausman is spearheading the
“Focus 2022” strategic plan that leverages five goals to accomplish the district’s mission of educating
students to believe in their talents and skills, achieve academic excellence and succeed in reaching their
potential.