Dr. Michael Gossen is the principal of Cowles Elementary and Junior High School in Windsor Heights, part of Des Moines Public Schools. With over 25 years of experience in education, he specializes in improving organizations through a systems-based approach. He has been recognized for establishing high-quality Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports, implementing a Science of Reading-aligned program to improve literacy, and creating aligned systems for instruction, assessment, intervention, and extension. Dr. Gossen is especially proud of his work building community partnerships to strengthen schools and neighborhoods. Outside of school, he enjoys the outdoors, music, time with family, and living out his faith.