Des Moines Public Schools has announced eight new leadership appointments for the 2025-2026 school year, filling positions in both central office and school leadership. The new leaders include Josie Lewis as chief of talent and personnel. Lewis most recently served as director of human resources for Polk County and led her own consulting firm. Johanna Ortiz-Cooper will serve in the new role of senior director of special populations, overseeing the education of the district’s more than 12,000 English Language Learners and special education students. Ortiz-Cooper was most recently superintendent of Meskawki Settlement School. Tascha Brown has been named DMPS’ first director of career and technical education and postsecondary readiness. Since 2018, Brown has served as director of Central Campus, overseeing 30 career and technical education programs and building partnerships with more than 100 business and industry partners. Carrie Romo, most recently principal of Goodrell Middle School will be the district’s new director of schools. To view all the new leaders, click here.