Superintendent hopeful focused on technology

Local News

March 9, 2010

By ANDY GOODELL

OSKALOOSA — He's rather tech savvy.

Todd Abrahamson is the third of four individuals seeking the soon-to-be vacant superintendent position at Oskaloosa Community Schools. During his Friday evening interview with the school board, Abrahamson remained focused on the power of technology and what it can do for students.

Abrahamson, a father of four, is currently the superintendent of Sigourney Schools in Keokuk County.

Abrahamson has been Sigourney's superintendent for four years and was also a shared superintendent of Keota and West Central schools for two years. He also has experience as a middle school Principal and teaching experience.

"For me, it's about engaging all students," he said.

One way to get all of his students in Sigourney involved was to provide them with laptop computers through a deal with Macintosh.

"It's been one of the best things to happen because students are engaged at all levels," said Abrahamson. "Technology is evolving so quickly and you have to stay on top of that game for our students because jobs in the market right now are very high-tech."

He also uses technology to increase communication with the school administration and parents in Sigourney. Abrahamson said he frequently blogs about what is going in his district on the school district's Web site.

Engaging all students also includes having innovative programs that do not focus on just one group of students, said Abrahamson.

Abrahamson also pointed out the importance of career academy instruction and how that can help keep students in Iowa after they graduate high school.

Originally from Palmer in northwest Iowa, Abrahamson has seen the world - literally.

Before getting into the education industry, Abrahamson was in the U.S. Air Force for seven years including during the first Gulf War. His military experiences took him to places like Japan, Germany and the Middle East among other countries. He was also stationed at Guantanamo Bay for a time.

Abrahamson is also currently working on his Phd. dissertation on superintendents' impact on student achievement through Iowa State University.

"It keeps me in tune to research," he said.

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Herald City Editor Andy Goodell can be reached at news2@oskyherald.com