Wicks accepts superintendency at O-M

Clark Wicks has accepted the position of superintendent for Orient-Macksburg Community Schools.

“I know him quite well,” said Doug Latham, O-M superintendent. “He’s an outstanding administrator.”

Wicks, 56, formerly of Nevada, Iowa, has 33 years in education. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education from Luther College in 1979. He then attended Drake University and earned his master’s degree in education administration. He also holds a specialist degree in superintendency from Iowa State University.

Wicks started as a teacher and coach in Panorama and Johnston. He then was an administrator in Rockwell City. He was elementary principal for Perry Community Schools for 23 years.

“I still have a chance to make a difference in public education,” said Wicks, “and it’s at a superintendent level, which I haven’t had that experience. ... The other part that worked out well for me was that it was part-time.”

A two-year contract was approved for Wicks as a part-time superintendent. He will be receiving $30,000 a year, as well as other benefits, starting July 1.

Wicks said, as of now, he will be commuting from Perry to Orient.

“It had a very family-oriented atmosphere,” Wicks said of O-M. “It’s a very clean and kept-up school.”

Wicks has been married to his wife for 30 years. The couple have three children, all college graduates.