Darius Ballard return Washington High School principal announcement
Iowa — Darius Ballard, a beloved educator and leader, will return to Washington as principal this spring, according to a formal announcement.
The community at Washington High School is shocked by this decision. The former principal of Washington High, who has been Chief of Human Resources for the Cedar Rapids Community School District for the last three years, will retake the role at the historic southeast side high school after current principal Theresa Hall abruptly resigned.
Why the Return? Darius Ballard Return Washington – Full Story
In 2016, Darius Ballard began serving as assistant principal at Washington High. He rose to the position of principal by 2020, a year marked by revitalized school customs, heightened community involvement, and greater student leadership involvement. Now, as the Warrior community starts the spring semester, the district is bringing him back.
Ballard’s comeback follows Theresa Hall’s resignation as principal after just seven months in the position. Hall will continue to work for the district until the end of the school year in a support-based administrative capacity. Until Ballard formally takes over as principal, Associate Principal Julie Cain is in charge of Washington High.
Ballard’s Connection to Washington High
Washington High supporters have pleasant memories of Ballard’s previous tenure. He assisted in guiding students through assemblies, academic achievements, extracurricular development, and moments of community pride that exemplify the Warrior spirit prior to his district-wide HR leadership position, which is currently being phased out due to budget cuts.
Ballard said in a statement, “I’ve always been a cheerleader for the southeast side.” “Washington is very important to me. Building on the school’s amazing traditions and legacy excites me. “It’s Always A Great Day To Be A Warrior” makes today an excellent day to return home.
Alumni and current families are sharing memories and hopes for Ballard’s return on social media and local community boards as a result of that quote.
Leadership Transition: What Changed at Washington High?
What we know about the most recent change in leadership is as follows:
Following a thorough selection process involving teachers, parents, and students, Theresa Hall became the new principal on July 1, 2025.
Only seven months later, Hall leaves for reasons that have not been made public.
Until Ballard arrives in time for the spring semester transition activities, Associate Principal Julie Cain will oversee operations.
Due to district budget cuts of almost $13 million, Darius Ballard’s previous position as Chief of Human Resources will be eliminated.
Ballard already has “deep relationships with many of our families and staff,” so the district is confident the transition will go smoothly, according to Superintendent Tawana Lannin.
What This Means for Warriors & the Community
With over 1,200 students and a strong academic, athletic, and artistic heritage, Washington High is more than just any school. It is a mainstay of the southeast side of Cedar Rapids.
Ballard’s return signifies the district’s desire for stability, community trust, and leadership continuity rather than merely a staffing change. Additionally, based on early responses from educators and parents, many are optimistic about a renewed emphasis on community involvement and student engagement.
The bottom line One of the most talked-about events in Cedar Rapids education this year is Darius Ballard’s return to his position as principal at Washington High School. It combines community heritage with leadership experience, and Warriors are genuinely excited about the future.
