When students return to Kalona Elementary this fall, they’ll be greeted by a new principal. Robin Foster emerged from 36 other candidates to succeed the departing Teresa Beenblossom. Foster said the interview process began in April, and she was hired at the beginning of May. She said she was both shocked and excited when learning of her hire, as it was something she had always dreamed about. She said the moment almost seemed to good too be true, but now she’s looking forward to joining the district.

Previously, Foster was a kindergarten teacher at Center Point-Urbana, though she had previously also been a third and fourth grade teacher in the district. A graduate of Okoboji High School in northwest Iowa, she completed her masters degree from the University of Northern Iowa this year, where she also received her undergraduate degree. She’s most excited to meet and work with the faculty and students and looks forward to learning along with them.