News Lowell Ernst Honored with Inaugural Dutch Difference Maker Award

At last night’s School Board meeting, Pella Community Schools proudly presented its first-ever Dutch Difference Maker Award to Lowell Ernst, who serves as the district’s Director of K–12 Instruction. This new award recognizes staff members and community partners who go above and beyond in their service to Pella Community Schools.

Beginning his 29th year with the district, Ernst was honored for his outstanding leadership in education, instruction, professional development, and curriculum—work that has established him as a respected leader across the state of Iowa. He was also instrumental in establishing the Pella Career Academy and advancing the regional WorkSMART initiative, connecting local students with valuable work-based learning opportunities, mentors, and college credits.

Congratulations to Lowell on this well-deserved recognition and for making a lasting difference in Pella Community Schools!