Career DMPS Educator to be New Principal at Oak Park

Ryan Sharp, most recently the school improvement leader at McCombs Middle School, is the new principal at Oak Park Elementary School.

DES MOINES, IA (July 18, 2018) – A longtime DMPS teacher and school leader will be the next principal of Oak Park Elementary School. Ryan Sharp, who has been the school improvement leader at McCombs Middle School, will begin his new role at Oak Park on July 23.

Sharp joined Des Moines Public Schools soon after receiving a Bachelors of Science degree in elementary education from Iowa State University. He also holds a Masters degree in educational administration from ISU. Sharp spent six years as a Title I reading teacher at Harding Middle School before becoming the SIL at McCombs in 2013. He also served as the athletic director while at Harding, and was an assistant baseball coach at North High School. Outside of school, Sharp is a Board member of Dads with a Purpose, an organization which works to encourage and support sustainable families.

“Ryan Sharp has not only been successful in our classrooms and schools, he has shown a commitment to our school district and our goal of becoming the model for urban education,” said Susan Tallman, executive director at Des Moines Public Schools. “He will be a strong addition to our new school principals for the upcoming school year.”

“As a school leader, I know my vision and skill-set will help lead Des Moines Public Schools in a positive direction,” noted Sharp. “I look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with all stakeholders to make sure the best comes from each child. I hope my work ethic, knowledge of best educational practices, and commitment to excellence will provide each child at Oak Park an outstanding education.”

Oak Park Elementary School is located at 3928 6th Avenue in Des Moines, and had an enrollment of 369 students during the 2017-18 school year. Oak Park is also one of six Turnaround Arts schools at DMPS.