SAI Names Dr. Brad Buck as Next Executive Director

School Administrators of Iowa (SAI) is pleased to announce that Dr. Brad Buck has accepted the role as the organization's next executive director.

Dr. Buck joins SAI with a distinguished background as an Iowa educator and statewide leader. He is currently serving as the superintendent of the Waukee Community School District, a position he has held since 2019.

SAI President Tim Felderman shared his perspective on the hiring decision. “Dr. Buck is a leader of integrity, purpose, and compassion. It was clear to the SAI Executive Committee, Representative Council, and staff that these traits will follow him into the executive director role. Brad’s relational leadership style will be the basis for how he serves PK-12 educational leadership in Iowa and we are excited to have him lead us,” he said.

Dr. Buck is recognized as one of Iowa's most accomplished education leaders. His career highlights demonstrate a sustained commitment to excellence in administration:

• Superintendent Experience: In addition to his tenure with Waukee, the third largest school district in Iowa, he previously served as superintendent for the state’s second largest public school system, the Cedar Rapids Community School District. He also led Saydel Community School District as superintendent from 2011-2013.

• Iowa Department of Education Director: From 2013-2015, Dr. Buck led the Iowa Department of Education as director. During this time, he successfully led the statewide implementation of significant initiatives, including the Early Literacy Initiative and the Teacher Leadership and Compensation (TLC) System. His experience working closely with the State Board of Education and the Governor’s office provided invaluable experience in state policy and system-wide support.

• Early Career: Buck developed his foundational leadership skills with the Waukee district, beginning as a principal and advancing through various central office roles.

The executive director role requires strong statewide relationships and organizational familiarity. Dr. Buck has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to SAI and the professional development of administrators:

• SAI Involvement: An active SAI member since 2004, he has served on various committees, the Representative Council (RC) and the Executive Committee (EC). He also served two terms as EC President, first in 2008 and again in 2021, showcasing his dedication to the association's governance and mission.

• Broader Professional Roles: Beyond SAI, Buck has held influential positions, including the Business Education Alliance superintendent representative since 2018, service on the American Association of School Administrators (AASA) Governing Board, and a former executive officer with the State Board of Education.

• Coaching and Instruction: Furthermore, Buck is a certified executive coach and a former adjunct professor at both Iowa State University and Viterbo University, reflecting his dual passion for continuous learning and supporting the development of leaders across the state.

He also understands the necessity of community engagement, demonstrated by his involvement with local chambers of commerce, United Way of Central Iowa, and the Greater Des Moines Partnership.

As one professional reference noted: “In every facet of leadership, strategic planning, professional development, legislative advocacy and organizational management, Buck brings the experience, heart, and vision needed to guide SAI into the future.”

The transition to this new leadership role will occur in 2026. Current Executive Director Dr. Lisa Remy will retire on August 31, 2026. SAI extends its deepest gratitude for the four years of Remy’s dedicated leadership and service.

“I am incredibly excited to be chosen as the next Executive Director of School Administrators of Iowa (SAI). Dr. Remy, in tandem with the Executive Committee and SAI staff have continued to strengthen the position of SAI as the premier organization for leadership recruitment, professional learning, and advocacy for school leaders in the state. My ultimate hope is that my experiences will help to further serve the members of the organization moving forward,” said Buck.

We are pleased to confirm that there will be a designated period this summer where Remy and Buck will collaborate closely to ensure a seamless leadership transition for the association.

“I am fully committed to supporting a seamless transition as SAI’s new executive director, Dr. Buck, steps into the role. With the association in such capable hands, I am confident SAI will continue to build on its strong foundation and maintain its momentum,” said Remy.

We are excited to see Dr. Buck leverage his extensive experience and unwavering commitment to benefit all SAI members.