Christ the King Catholic School announces new administrator
February 20, 2024
Christ the King Catholic School announced new leadership for the 2024- 2025 school year.
Susan Battani will be the school administrator effective July 1. Battani holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education with endorsements in Reading and Language Arts from the University of Northern Iowa and a Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Creighton University.
"Susan is a noteworthy addition to the Christ the King team," said Donna Bishop, Superintendent of Schools. "We are enthusiastic about Susan's prospective contributions, confident that her expertise in educational leadership will not only perpetuate a legacy of excellence at Christ the King but also elevate the school's culture and fortify a robust sense of community."
Battani brings nearly two decades of educational experience in both public and private schools to the role and is dedicated to continuously improving the educational system for the benefit of all students. Her most recent role with the Diocese was as an assistant administrator at Sacred Heart Catholic School in West Des Moines. Notable accomplishments during her time at Sacred Heart include implementing a mentor program for new teachers, leading faith retreats, and revamping the school’s approach to Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports. Battani also facilitated key professional development on Professional Learning Communities, Multi-Tiered System of Support, gradual release of responsibility, and classroom management. Prior to that, she served as a kindergarten classroom teacher at St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic School in Ankeny and has also held roles as an early childhood educator, first-grade teacher, and title math teacher.
“As an educator and leader, my focus is on student learning. All students can learn if given a positive atmosphere, which begins with the school’s leader,” shared Battani. “As administrator at Christ the King, I will promote professional growth for the staff while also working with parents to ensure students receive the appropriate attention to meet their individual needs.”
Members of the Christ the King community are invited to visit with Battani during a meet-and-greet event on Friday, Feb. 23 from 5-7 p.m. in the parish hall.
Serving the Des Moines community for over 60 years, Christ the King Catholic School provides an exceptional learning environment that values faith, knowledge, and service for children ages 2 through eighth grade. For more information on Christ the King Catholic School, visit cksdesmoines.com.
The Diocese of Des Moines includes 16 schools in central and southwest Iowa. Catholic schools in the Des Moines Diocese build Christ-centered, collaborative, inclusive partnerships with parents, students, and parishes to provide students with innovative academic excellence and inspirational faith formation. To learn more about Catholic schools in the Diocese of Des Moines, visit dmdiocese.org/grow or email grow@dmdiocese.org.