School News

Announcing New Interim Director of Athletics and Activities November 2024

Announcing Our Interim Director of Athletics and Activities

Following the resignation of Josh Frey, UHS and District Administration have been collaborating on plans to ensure the effective and efficient operations of our Athletics and Activities Department. In doing so, we have determined that an interim position will help provide consistency and stability for our students and families involved in athletics and activities. 

Power JaredWe are excited to share that Mr. Jared Power has accepted the position of Interim Director of Athletics and Activities for the remainder of the 2024-25 school year. Mr. Power is working with Mr. Frey to transition into this interim position.

For the past two years, Mr. Power has served as one of our two Deans of Students at Urbandale High School. Prior to that, he served as a Student Engagement Coordinator, Behavior Strategist, and Special Education Teacher at Goodrell Middle School for Des Moines Public Schools, an Elementary Principal in the Chariton Community School District, a Special Education Teacher in the Johnston Community School District, a Special Education and English Language Arts Teacher at Woodward Academy, and an English Language Arts Teacher and At Risk Coordinator at Moravia Community School District. Mr. Power holds a Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Drake University, a Master of Arts in Teaching Special Education and Athletic Program Management from Morningside University, a Post Baccalaureate Teacher Certification Program from Buena Vista University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Advertising from Iowa State University.

“I am honored to serve our community in this new capacity,” said Power. “Urbandale has a storied history in athletics and activities and I am eager to collaborate with our coaches and directors to serve the needs of our students. The pride our students, parents, staff, and community show for our programs is second to none. I look forward to building upon that passion to ensure the continued success of our J-Hawks.”

Later this school year, a full interview process will take place for the hiring of the UCSD Director of Athletics and Activities with a start date of July 1, 2025. As previously mentioned, we will be seeking input from students, families, and staff about the most important qualities they would like to see in a Director of Athletics and Activities. We will also ensure various stakeholder groups are invited to participate in the interview process.

Please join us in welcoming Mr. Power as the UCSD Interim Athletics and Activities Director. We’re thrilled to continue working alongside this highly respected and collaborative leader in our District.