The Superintendent’s Final Report highlights alignment with the Iowa Department of Education’s priorities: strengthening the teacher pipeline, early literacy, narrowing achievement gaps and supporting multiple postsecondary pathways. Over two months, Superintendent Kaftan held nearly 200 one-on-one meetings with staff, families and students, along with classroom visits to observe instruction. Feedback gathered emphasized the impact of enrichment programs like STEM events and 4PLUS career prep, and informed planning for reaccreditation with CEASD and Cognia.

Commendations include strong staff collaboration, success in expanded learning programs, and effective IESBVI consultant support. Growth areas identified include expanding enrollment, improving communication and increasing academic rigor—especially in early literacy and transition readiness. Moving forward, three priorities will guide efforts: high-quality instruction, stronger community partnerships and clear, consistent communication across all levels.  

Questions about the plan will be answered by Superintendent Kaftan. Contact him through the button below.

Click here to access translation to multiple languages.

This video features Superintendent Kaftan explaining his Final Report. It is in American Sign Language and voiced in English as well as captioned.

This entry plan outlines various goals and strategies Superintendent Kaftan plans to accomplish during the first six months of his tenure. The plan intends to create structures and processes that will provide the ability to establish a solid understanding of the traditions, relationships, strengths and opportunities that make up the fabric of Iowa School for the Deaf and Iowa Educational Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired. 

The insights gained through this process will help Superintendent Kaftan make informed decisions that will build on past accomplishments and take ISD and IESBVI to new levels of success. More importantly, this plan will chart a path that allows him to create transparency and trust with community stakeholders while remaining attentive to our classroom teaching and learning needs.  

Questions about the plan will be answered by Superintendent Kaftan. Contact him through the button below.

Click here to access translation to multiple languages.

This video playlist will move automatically from one short video to the other until all five are played. These videos follow the aspects of the Superintendent’s Entry Plan.