School News

Announcing Our UHS Dean of Students
Created on March 4th, 2025Following an extensive interview process, we’re happy to share that Mr. Lance McConnell has accepted the position of UHS Dean of Students. Mr. McConnell will support high school students with last names A – K and serve alongside UHS Dean of Students, Dr. Russell.
Since 2007, Mr. McConnell has supported students, staff, and families in the Urbandale Community School District. Over the past several months, Mr. McConnell has been supporting UHS students as our Interim Dean of Students. Prior to that, he served for nine years as an Instructional Coach at UHS and Metro West Learning Academy, while also serving as the Site Administrator for the Elementary Summer School Program during two recent summers. Before joining the high school, Mr. McConnell served as a 7th Grade Language Arts Teacher at Urbandale Middle School for eight years.
Mr. McConnell holds a Master of Education in Educational Administration and Principal Endorsement from Northwestern College, a Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction from Western Governors University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education from Grandview University.
“I am so excited to continue the work of Dean of Students at Urbandale High School,” said McConnell. “I want to thank all the staff, students, and parents who have helped me in this transition. I look forward to continuing to build a positive learning environment at Urbandale High School.”
Please join us in welcoming Mr. McConnell as the UHS Dean of Students. We’re fortunate to continue working alongside this exceptional leader!