Douglas School District Leadership Transfers and Hiring Announcement for 26-27
The Douglas School District is pleased to announce additional new leadership appointments for the 2026-2027 school year.
Nathan Batteen has been selected as the new Principal for Badger Clark Elementary School. Currently serving as the Assistant Principal at Douglas Middle School, Batteen brings a strong background in student support, instructional leadership, and building positive school culture. He began his career teaching PreK–8th grade from 2009 to 2015 in a different district before joining our district as the Physical Education teacher at Vandenberg Elementary, where he taught from 2015 to 2021. Throughout his career, he has served on building leadership teams, supported RTI groups for students in grades 1–5, and coached high school football and track. In 2021, Batteen became the Dean and Activities Director at Douglas Middle School before moving into the Assistant Principal role in 2025. He holds a Master’s Degree in PreK–12 Administration and a Bachelor’s Degree in K–12 Physical Education with a minor in Health and Coaching, and looks forward to partnering with staff, students, and families at Badger Clark Elementary School.
“We are pleased to welcome Nathan Batteen to Badger Clark Elementary as our new principal,” said Ann Pettit, Executive Director of Elementary Academics. “In his role at Douglas Middle School, Mr. Batteen has demonstrated collaborative leadership, a strong commitment to student success, and a passion for continuous improvement. His experience with Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), data-driven decision-making, and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) will be a valuable asset to Badger Clark. We look forward to Mr. Batteen continuing his administrative career as a Douglas Patriot and the positive impact he will have on our students, staff, and school community.”
Tori Nielsen, has been promoted to Assistant Principal/Activities Director at Douglas Middle School. For seven years, Nielsen has been an integral part of the Douglas School District, working in special education at the high school and middle school levels. As a middle school case manager, she was instrumental in supporting students and staff to ensure the success of all learners.
In addition to her work in education, Nielsen has spent six years coaching middle school volleyball and boys’ and girls’ basketball, as well as serving as an assistant girls’ basketball coach at the high school level. She has served on several committees, including the Building Leadership Teams, PBIS, RTI, and Transition Improvement for Special Education District Team. She was the recipient of the Council for Exceptional Children National Rising Star Special Education Award in 2024. She is excited to continue her journey in leadership, where she looks forward to fostering growth and development for both students, families, and staff.
“We are excited to continue fostering Ms. Nielsen in her leadership role as Assistant Principal/Activities Director,” said Courtney Crosswait, Executive Director of Secondary Academics. “Her organizational skills, passion for student success, and dedication to building strong relationships will continue to make her a tremendous asset to our students, staff, and school community in her new role.”
Julie Thompson, has joined our district as assistant principal at Douglas Middle School. Thompson brings a strong background in education and leadership, having served as a high school teacher, K-12 school counselor, elementary dean, and high school assistant principal, with extensive experience supporting students, staff, and families. Her expertise includes Professional Learning Communities (PLC), Social Emotional Learning, PBIS, trauma-focused education, and instructional leadership, along with a strong commitment to building positive school culture and student success. Known for her collaborative and relationship-focused leadership style, Thompson is dedicated to helping students thrive both academically and socially while supporting staff growth and development. Douglas Middle School looks forward to the experience, passion, and leadership she will bring to the Patriot community.
“We are excited to welcome Julie Thompson to Douglas Middle School as our new Assistant Principal,” said Courtney Crosswait, Executive Director of Secondary Academics. “Her passion for student success, dedication to building strong relationships, and extensive leadership experience will make her a tremendous asset to our students, staff, and school community.”
The Douglas School District looks forward to the contributions these leaders will make as they begin their new positions officially on July 1, 2026, and continue the district’s commitment to excellence in education.
“We are pleased to see these individuals step into their new roles and also welcome our newest administrative hire,” said Kevin Case, Superintendent. “Each one brings a unique experience, along with dedication, and a student-centered approach to nurturing young learners and preparing students for success will have a lasting impact on our schools and community.”
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For additional information, please contact: Alexa White, DSD Communications Coordinator, [email protected]