June 8, 2020
Rich Powers Recipient of 2020 Superintendent Outstanding Administrator Award
On May 6, 2020, Dr. Rich Powers, superintendent of the Bondurant-Farrar Community School District (BFCSD) was announced the recipient of the 2020 Superintendent Outstanding Administrator Award by the Iowa Bandmasters Association (IBA).
Powers, who has served as superintendent since 2014, was nominated by BFCSD’s 5-12 instrumental music team, which consists of Kat Breitbach, Trey Hill, and Braden Wipperman. The team credits Powers for being a strong advocate for the district’s band program and making decisions that have allowed for additional space, staff, and equipment to assist the rapidly growing program.
Per his nominators, “Under his leadership, the community passed a bond for an addition to the high school, which included classroom space, a new band room, and a performing arts facility. He openly advocated for the district’s assistance with the purchase of 100 new band uniforms, with the intent of purchasing additional uniforms in the future. At the younger grade levels, he has supported the purchase of several new tubas, euphoniums, bass clarinets and horns, as well as upgrades to space that are currently underway at the middle school building. Additionally, his budget management and influence has allowed for an additional instrumental music staff member to be hired.”
Recognizing the importance of music in schools, Powers said "Music can be the door to life-changing experiences for our students. Braden, Kat, and Trey understand this perfectly!” Powers went on to say, “It has been rewarding to see students shine because of their efforts. I am very proud of what they do for our students each day.”
The IBA annually selects three administrators nominated by member band directors to receive an Outstanding Administrator Award. According to the IBA, administrators selected exhibit leadership traits that support the growth and success of the band programs, students, directors, and school communities. One administrator is selected at the middle school, high school, and superintendent levels.
Reflecting on the selection, nominators Breitbach, Hill, and Wipperman said, “The many ways in which Superintendent Powers and the entire administration support the band program allow for incredible learning opportunities for our students. This award is the perfect kind of recognition to express our thanks.” The group went to state, “The arts are a critical component of a student's education. It is clear that Dr. Powers keeps this in mind as our district continues to grow and change.”
