DMPS Hires Two New Principals with Des Moines Roots

Des Moines Public Schools is pleased to announce the hiring of two new elementary school principals.  Both have experience working for DMPS.

Eric Van Dorin will take the position of principal at Moulton Extended Learning Center.  He holds a Master in Educational Leadership, and has a background in teaching, training and ELL instruction.  He has most recently served as Dean of Students at Brubaker Elementary in Des Moines.  Van Dorin in an Iowa native, born in Centerville.

“Eric’s desire to help students and staff be successful is obvious in everything he does,” Superintendent Dr. Thomas Ahart said. “He will bring a lot of heart, and a lot of experience to his new position as principal of Moulton.”

Michelle Hurlburt will take the position of principal at Wright Elementary.  She returns to DMPS from Waukee where she served as Assistant Director of Curriculum and Professional Learning.  Her roots are in DMPS.  She graduated from Lincoln High School and got her start after college as an International Baccalaureate coordinator at Hubbell Elementary.  Hurlburt also has a Master in Educational Leadership.

“Michelle is a relationship builder,” Superintendent Dr. Thomas Ahart said. “She’s skilled in creating positive learning environments, and I have no doubt she will work tirelessly to empower students and staff to reach their potential.”

Both Van Dorin and Hurlburt will start their new positions on July 1. To assist with the transition into their new roles, they’ve been in contact with current principals Cheri Dixon (Moulton) and Lindsay Cornwell (Wright).  Dixon and Cornwell are leaving to pursue other opportunities.