Get to Know Principal Spiess - South Middle School

Education & Professional Experience: I grew up in Minnesota, and graduated from Totino-Grace High School in 2001. I came to Iowa by attending Drake University for my bachelors degree. I have continued my formal education with earning my masters degree from ISU, my specialist degree from Drake, and my PhD from Drake.

I began my education career teaching high school math at Des Moines Lincoln High School. After working in the DMPS curriculum department for a year, I served as a building administrator at three different buildings. I most recently was an AP and interim principal at Hoyt Middle School. I am honored and humbled to begin my 18th year in education as the South Middle School principal!

Personal Information: My wife Rebecca and I married in 2011 and we have three children (Jacob – 9, Sophia – 7, Isaiah – 4). When not working, I enjoy being with my family, playing/watching sports, the performing arts, and traveling. My side hustle is refereeing soccer, and I can also be found coaching just about anything my kids are playing. We live in Waukee, and I am beyond excited to serve the SMS community!

Contact Information:

Email: jspiess@waukeeschools.org
Phone: 515.987.3222
Fax: 515.987.3233
Twitter/Facebook/Instagram @WaukeeSMS

Schedule: To schedule an appointment with me, please stop in, email me or call our office. Teresa Broderick, building secretary, can schedule an appointment for you.