Chris Krueger is the 2026 Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year

Chris Krueger, Associate Principal at Mason City High School, has been named the 2026 Iowa Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year by School Administrators of Iowa (SAI).

“His steady optimism and genuine respect for others have earned him the trust of those he serves. Through every change and challenge, Chris leads with clarity, care, and a belief in what his team can achieve together,” said SAI Executive Director Dr. Lisa Remy.

Krueger has served as Associate Principal since 2022, overseeing both the freshman and senior classes. He has expanded opportunities in the Career and Technical Education (CTE) department, created personalized experiences such as the Freshman Success class that substantially increased credits earned, initiated the Mentors in Violence Prevention (MVP) program to strengthen school culture and respect, and elevated the English Learner (EL) program to record levels of success.

His leadership not only drove higher attendance, improved scores, and resulted in a record number of EL students graduating, but the strong relationships he built within the Micronesian community also made a significant impact.

“Historically, many in our community have felt disconnected from the school systems here in the United States, but Mr. Krueger has helped change that story in Mason City. For the first time, many Micronesian families feel seen, welcomed, and respected within a school environment. There is a new sense of belonging at Mason City High School, and it is largely due to his intentional outreach and compassion,” shared a leader within the Micronesian community.

Before making a difference at Mason City, Krueger spent three years as an educator and building facilitator for the Cedar Rapids Community School District. He spent much of his career with Denver Community Schools, where he both taught, coached, and later worked as the secondary dean of students and Activities Director. He began his career with the Charles City Community School District.

Krueger's influence reaches the student-athlete experience as well. He was named the 2025 Iowa Wrestling Coaches and Officials Association (IWCOA) Assistant Girls' Wrestling Coach of the Year and as a performance mindset coach works with teams across the country to build culture and strengthen their mental resilience. Krueger was also recently inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame in recognition of his 20-year career as a highly accomplished Iowa boys' high school wrestling coach.

He earned his bachelor of arts in education from the University of Northern Iowa, followed by a Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Iowa State University.

Derek Schulte, the 2025 Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year, served on the selection committee and recognized Krueger's passion for his work. “Our committee was thoroughly impressed with both finalists for this award. Congratulations to Chris Krueger on being selected SAI Assistant Principal of the Year. His passion, energy and commitment to making a positive impact at Mason City High School was evident. He is a relationship builder that is invested in building a positive culture with students, staff, and the community.” he said.

Reflecting on the recognition, Krueger said, “I am deeply honored to be recognized as SAI’s 2026 Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year. This award reflects the incredible students, staff, and community I have the privilege to serve each day. My philosophy is that greatness is not measured by how great you are, but by how great others become because of you (Cus D’Amato).  I’m grateful for the opportunity to help build and enhance a culture where every student and staff member feels empowered to exceed their potential. Mason City High School is truly an amazing place, and I am proud to represent it through this honor.”

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