August 14, 2026

Dear Miami East Families and Community,

As we prepare to welcome students and staff back, I am honored to begin my first year as Superintendent here.  Miami East has always had a strong tradition of success in Academics, the Arts, and Athletics, and I expect that this success will continue with another school year.  

This year, we have a lot of new administrators and staff who are committed to moving the district forward.  Please join me in welcoming Sue Dankworth - Elementary Principal, Kelly Kauffman - High School Principal, Hannah Davis - Treasurer, Donn Craig - Director of Operations, Abby Hardin - HS English, Jennifer Bowsher - 8th grade Science, Miranda Martel - Junior High Secretary, Jessica May - Intervention Specialist, Kaylee Wheat - 5th Grade, Samuel Henning Custodian, Mackenzie Swank HS English, and Aaron Baker - Intervention Specialist.

Throughout the past few months, I have learned that the school is the centerpiece of our community.  I have spent my entire career in small towns and rural communities that have pride in their local schools.  My commitment here at Miami East, is to build on our strong foundation, while keeping students at the center of every decision we make.  I look forward to being visible, approachable, and transparent while working alongside our students, staff, families and community to move Miami East forward.  

Last school year, the district went through a strategic planning process, and an area that was identified to improve upon was our communications.  One strategy we will utilize this school year to improve on in communications is the use of apptegy rooms for communication between our staff and families.  Please look for additional information as we start the school year and make sure you have the new app downloaded.  There will be some challenges with this transition, but I believe in the long run this change will help facilitate stronger working relationships between families and staff.  

Below are some important dates and times as we start the school year.

Freshman/New Student Orientation - Sunday August 23 

K-5 Open House - Monday, August 24 5:00 pm

7-8 Open House - Monday, August 24 6:30 pm

6th Grade Orientation - Tuesday, August 25, 5:30 pm

First Day ofl Kindergarten (Girls), Grades 1-9 - Wednesday, August 26

First Day of School Kindergarten (Boys), 10-12 - Thursday, August 27 

Thank You for the trust you place in Miami East Local Schools.  I am looking forward to the year ahead and all that we will accomplish together.  

Go Vikings!

Dr. Joseph Hoelzle, Superintendent