Long-Time DMPS Educator to Direct Human Resources

Susan Tallman is named Interim Chief of Human Resources.

Des Moines Public Schools Human Resources is pleased to welcome interim Chief of Human Resources Susan Tallman. She is transitioning from her position as the district’s Executive Director of Schools.

Tallman started her DMPS career in 1991 as a classroom teacher and served for more than a decade at McKinley, River Woods, Jefferson and Lovejoy elementary schools. She went on to become the assistant principal at River Woods and Jefferson, and then principal at Wright and Morris elementary schools. In 2008, Tallman became a regional executive director, also serving as the program supervisor of the English Language Learner Department and the supervisor of the enrollment center. She accepted the position of Elementary Executive Director in 2012 and most recently was named the Executive Director of Schools.

Tallman received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Iowa, her Master of Education from Iowa State University and her post-graduate certifications in Administration & Supervision, and Superintendent Licensure, from Drake University.

“My life’s work is built around improving the education experience and outcome for every student, family and employee in Des Moines schools,” Tallman said. “I look forward to working with our dedicated staff in human resources to find ways to improve the work experience for all of the district’s 5,000 employees.”

Tallman played a key role in implementing the Wallace Foundation grant to improve the quality of training for principal supervisors, empowering them to support building principals and create a pipeline of new talent for district leadership. The district’s success with the Wallace Foundation grant has been nationally recognized.

“Susan Tallman has dedicated more than 25 years of her career to Des Moines Public Schools students, families and employees,” Superintendent Dr. Thomas Ahart said. “I have no doubt her leadership in Human Resources will cultivate an environment where everyone feels inspired to improve and every employee feels supported and valued for their work.”

Tallman’s appointment was approved by the school board on August 13.