My name is April Heitland, and it is my honor to serve as the principal at North Ridge Elementary. I have had the honor of working in the Dallas Center-Grimes School District since 2007. 

I earned my Bachelor’s Degree at Buena Vista University and began my teaching career in Avoca, Iowa as a kindergarten teacher. I later joined the Des Moines Public School District before moving to Grimes in 2007. Over the years, I have had the privilege of teaching preschool, kindergarten, first, third, and fifth grade, and have also served as a Reading Recovery teacher. While actively teaching, I pursued further education and completed my M.Ed. in Educational Leadership from Northwest Missouri State University. In May of 2023, I earned my Specialist Degree in Superintendency, also from Northwest Missouri State University. I am excited to share my journey and expertise with you!

My husband Scott and I have called Grimes our home for 20 years and have seen all of the exciting changes first hand in our community and our school district. When I’m not at school, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, running, and reading. We love to cheer on the Mustangs and Hawkeyes and hang out on the lake whenever we have the chance. 

I have never experienced such an amazing group of dedicated teachers like the ones at North Ridge and in the Dallas Center-Grimes School District. It is our pleasure to work alongside you and your family to find success for all students.