Cardinal School Leader is the 2026 Iowa Elementary Assistant Principal of the Year

Aimee Sivak, assistant elementary principal for Cardinal Community School District, has been named the 2026 Iowa Elementary Assistant Principal of the Year by School Administrators of Iowa (SAI).

“Aimee Sivak is a dynamic, student-centered leader whose commitment to collaboration, early learning, and strong family partnerships is making a lasting impact on her school community,” said Lisa Remy, SAI executive director.

Sivak has served in various capacities with Cardinal since 2017. She started as the at-risk coordinator and early education director before adding the role of before- and after-school daycare director in 2018. She continues to serve in these capacities and took on the additional responsibilities of assistant elementary principal in 2023.

She began her career as a kindergarten teacher in Missouri before accepting a preschool teaching position in Iowa. Her passion for early childhood education led her to her current roles with Cardinal, where she has been instrumental in program growth.

Former Cardinal Elementary Principal Heather Buckley said Sivak's leadership has been transformational.

“In addition to her responsibilities as assistant principal, Aimee oversees our large preschool program,” Buckley said. “She designs impactful professional development, has built a culture of collaboration among our staff and providers, and cultivates strong partnerships with agencies such as Sieda, Early Childhood Iowa and Shared Visions. With her expertise and support, we can offer free, all-day preschool with comprehensive services to over 140 young learners.”

A colleague who provided a reference for the award noted Sivak's innovative approach to problem-solving. “From mitigating behaviors to providing classroom support for teachers, Ms. Sivak has an innovative way of viewing situations... Her perspective serves those involved to best support students, staff and family members.”

Sivak earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Fayetteville State University and a master’s degree in education administration from Dordt University.

Anna Taggart, the 2022 Elementary Assistant Principal of the Year, served on the selection committee and recognized Sivak’s passion. “The selection committee chose Aimee Sivak as Iowa Assistant Principal of the Year because of her unwavering commitment to student-centered leadership and her ability to strengthen the connection between schools, families, and communities. Aimee consistently elevates learning experiences through meaningful family engagement, innovative early childhood leadership, and thoughtful systems-building that results in real impact for students and staff. Her vision, compassion, and proven results exemplify the outstanding educational leadership in Iowa,” Taggart said.

Reflecting on the recognition, Sivak said she is honored and grateful.

“I feel privileged to serve others and to work alongside such dedicated and talented educators who show up every day to make a difference,” Sivak said. “Collaboration and strong partnerships make great things happen—especially when we think outside the box and work together to strengthen programs and secure funding that support students in meaningful ways.

“At Cardinal, we are doing great things... I am passionate about creating a kid-friendly elementary environment where students and staff are excited to come each day.”

SAI will honor Iowa’s Administrator of the Year award recipients at its annual conference in August 2026.