DMPS Welcomes New Behavioral Health Services Coordinator

Katie Issa will serve as the new Behavioral Health Services Coordinator at DMPS.

DMPS is welcoming a new Behavioral Health Services Coordinator — Katie Issa. In her role, she will lead schools in improving and implementing systems and services that support student mental health and well-being.

Issa was employed as a DMPS middle school behavior strategist before accepting her new role. She has also served as a Behavior Strategist PLC lead, a Behavior Interventionist for West Des Moines Schools, a SUCCESS Case Manager, and an Early Childhood Support case manager. Issa is a Licensed Clinical Independent Social Worker.

“Katie Issa has extensive experience working in schools and has a unique career path leading her to this position,” said Jake Troja, Director of School Climate Transformation. “Katie’s self-awareness and deep understanding of mental health makes her an ideal leader for this work.”

Issa has a master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Iowa, and a bachelor of arts in Social Work from the University of Northern Iowa.

“I look forward to working with community agencies, school teams, and administrators to support the mental health and well-being of all Des Moines Public Schools students,” Issa said. “Mental and behavioral health needs are steadily rising, and when these needs are met, children and adolescents attend school regularly, develop positive connections, succeed in school and have a strong foundation from which to reach their full potential in life.”

Issa transitioned to the role of Behavior Health Coordinator in January following the departure of Tim Johnson, who now serves at the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services in Juvenile Justice.