SCCS announces new leadership for next school year

February 26, 2024

Shelby County Catholic School announced new leadership for the 2024-2025 school year. Steve Sauvain will be the school administrator effective July 1.

Sauvain holds a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education and Health with additional graduate work in Instructional Technology and a Master’s Degree in Education and Supervision.

"We are thrilled to welcome Steve to the Shelby County Catholic School family. His passion for education, dedication to fostering a nurturing learning environment, and commitment to our core values make him an invaluable addition to the Diocese of Des Moines,” said Donna Bishop, superintendent of Schools. “I am confident that under his leadership, Shelby County Catholic will continue to thrive and inspire excellence in its students."

Sauvain brings over four decades of educational experience in both Catholic and public education to the role. Most recently, he was the Director of Education for the Harlan Community School District where he established a district-wide instructional coaching model, secured grant funding to expand STEM programming, and successfully led a team of more than 30 educators. Prior to that, he served as a school administrator in both K-8 and 9-12 schools, Area Education Agency director, athletic director, classroom teacher, and coach.

“I believe teachers become servant leaders who empower themselves and others to directly impact school culture,” said Sauvain. “As administrator of Shelby County Catholic, I will champion innovation, school improvement, professional development, and student achievement.”

Members of the Shelby County Catholic School community are invited to visit with Sauvain during a meet-and-greet event following school Mass on Wednesday, Feb. 28 at 8:15 a.m.

Established in 1884 with the inaugural Catholic school at St. Boniface in Westphalia, Catholic education in Shelby County has evolved into a revered tradition. At Shelby County Catholic School, our mission is to equip students with the skills to excel as problem solvers and critical thinkers within a faith-infused learning environment fostering faith, community, prayer, academics, and service. Our dedicated teachers and staff work collaboratively to cultivate a supportive atmosphere, encouraging every student to reach their full potential. Through a combination of individualized instruction and high expectations, Shelby County Catholic School empowers students in grades PK-5 to soar academically and personally.

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 our website or email us.