Shane Christensen, Ed.D., current principal at Indian Hills Junior High, has been named the next principal at Valley High School. 

Christensen will begin his new role July 1, 2025, pending approval by the West Des Moines Community Schools Board of Education at its regular meeting April 14. 

“Dr. Christensen is an experienced educator, an innovative strategist, and a respected leader in our district,” superintendent Matt Adams said. “His passion for education and the care he shows for his students and staff are unmatched. He is the right person to lead Valley High School.”

"His passion for education and the care he shows for his students and staff are unmatched. He is the right person to lead Valley High School." — Matt Adams, superintendent

Christensen has served WDMCS for 24 years, the last 19 as principal at Indian Hills. His collaborative nature and ability to think systemically has had a direct impact on student outcomes. Over the last six years, Indian Hills has seen marked improvement on the Iowa School Performance Profiles.

“I am beyond excited and honored for the opportunity to lead Valley High School, where excellence is the standard,” Christensen said. “I take very seriously the challenge of supporting all students and staff around the "Four A's": Academics, Activities, Arts, and Athletics, while fostering a culture of belonging. Every student deserves the opportunity to succeed.”

Valley owns the largest student enrollment of any high school in Iowa. It offers one of the largest selections of academic programs in the state and consistently ranks among Iowa’s best athletics and activities programs.

Christensen takes over for David Maxwell, who will serve as Valley’s principal through the end of the school year. Starting July 1, 2025, Maxwell will transition to the district’s first director of strategic outreach and systems change.