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The MSD of Decatur Township names Dr. Jake Shaffner as Principal of Valley Mills Elementary, effective July 1, 2026.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 14, 2026
The MSD of Decatur Township School Board of Education approved the appointment of Dr. Jake Shaffner as Principal of Valley Mills Elementary School, effective July 1, 2026. Dr. Shaffner will succeed Mr. Jack Birmingham, who has been named as Director of Career Partnerships here in the district, starting next school year.
Dr. Shaffner brings 17 years of experience in education, including roles as a 3rd and 4th grade teacher, assistant principal, and principal. He currently serves as the Principal of Rushville Elementary, in Rushville, Indiana.
Dr. Shaffner earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Purdue University in Elementary Education and both his Master’s Degree and Doctoral Degree in Educational Administration from Ball State University.
Dr. Shaffner shared, “I am looking forward to serving a wonderful group of students, staff, and families! Everyone I have met at MSD Decatur have been kind and thoughtful. I'm very excited to join the Valley Mills team and make a positive impact on our students.”
Originally from Greenwood, Indiana, Dr. Shaffner and his wife, Audrey, have three children. He is a huge fan of Purdue basketball and enjoys running, having completed his first full marathon last fall.
Welcome to Decatur Township, Dr. Jake Shaffner!
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About MSD Decatur Township
The MSD of Decatur Township is student invested, community connected. Decatur Township prioritizes student learning, safety and customer service, and fostering a support system for our families. Located on the southwest side of Indianapolis, Decatur Township is proud to serve thousands of elementary, middle, and high school students and families. The district vision is Preparing Students to be Tomorrow Ready. Together, we are DECATUR PROUD! Learn more at www.decaturproud.org.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Emily LeMay, Director of Student & Family Engagement
MSD of Decatur Township
elemay@decaturproud.org
317-856-5265