We are pleased to announce that Karl Kurt, currently the Assistant Chief Administrator and Director of Human Resources for the agency, has been selected as the agency’s next chief administrator to begin July 1, 2026. Kurt will succeed Stan Rheingans, Interim Chief Administrator, who will continue to serve in a shared Chief Administrator role with Keystone AEA until June 30, 2026.
In his new position, Karl will continue to lead more than 500 full- and part-time staff members who provide special education and school improvement services along with technology and media support for over 62,000 students and 5,000 educators across an 18-county region in north central and northeastern Iowa.
“Karl brings deep knowledge of our agency, has established relationships with staff and partners, and possesses a commitment to doing what is best for students, families, and educators. His experience with the AEA system will serve our region well,” said Dr. Debra Rich, CRAEA board president.
Karl has been with CRAEA since 2016, where he has helped lead strategic initiatives, strengthen organizational culture, and build leadership capacity across the agency. Under his leadership, the agency launched an internal staff wellbeing program, earned Top Workplace honors, and navigated significant organizational changes through statewide educational shifts and the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I’m honored and humbled to continue serving our dedicated staff and the districts we support as the agency’s chief administrator,” said Karl. “Our team works tirelessly to provide outstanding services and support, and I’m passionate about building on that commitment to ensure our continued success together during this important time in our agency’s history.”
Prior to joining CRAEA, Kurt served as superintendent in North Linn and Central City Community School Districts and held administrative roles in Independence Community Schools and in Ohio.
With a foundation in school psychology, he has championed student well-being, staff growth, and continuous improvement. Known for his transparent, compassionate, and steady leadership, Karl has earned recognition as a data driven leader who makes decisions based on what’s best for all learners.