The Delavan-Darien School District is proud to announce the appointment of Joseph Wehrenberg as the new Principal of Darien Elementary School, effective July 1, 2025, for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year.
Wehrenberg brings with him nearly 20 years of experience in education, along with a strong commitment to student-centered learning and equity. Most recently, he served as an Instructional Coach at Delavan-Darien High School, where he provided instructional support to teachers and played a key role in promoting best practices across classrooms.
Prior to his work in DDSD, he served as Math Coordinator and Coach for grades 4K–8 at Waterford Graded School District (2022–2024), Instructional Coach for grades 4K–6 in the School District of Beloit (2019–2022), and Instructional Coach for grades K–5 at the Whitnall School District (2014–2019). His teaching background includes experience as both a 5th Grade Teacher and a 6th–8th Grade Social Studies Teacher.
“In the nineteen years I have been in education, I have worked with a variety of grade levels and subject areas in various formats including whole class instruction, small group interventions, enrichment activities, and learning stations,” said Wehrenberg. “Working closely with successful teachers has strengthened my passion for student-centered learning, and I’m excited to bring that mindset into my leadership at Darien Elementary.”
Wehrenberg holds a Master of Education degree from Cardinal Stritch University and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Viterbo University.
As he steps into this new role, Wehrenberg emphasized his vision for fostering a welcoming, inclusive school culture: “Becoming a leader in the Delavan-Darien School community, including the Hispanic community, begins with a deep commitment to equity, inclusion, and relationship-building. I believe in fostering a learning environment where every student feels seen, valued, and respected for who they are and where they come from. By supporting culturally inclusive practices in the classroom and beyond, I hope to help create a school environment where diversity is not only acknowledged but celebrated.”
DDSD Superintendent Drew Halbesma called Wehrenberg’s selection a strong step forward for Darien Elementary and the district as a whole, “Joe is a proven educator and leader with a deep understanding of instructional practices and a genuine passion for building strong relationships with students, staff, and families. His dedication to equity and inclusive education aligns perfectly with our district’s values. We’re excited to see his leadership shine at Darien Elementary.”
The Delavan-Darien School District is excited to welcome Mr. Wehrenberg into this important leadership role and looks forward to the continued growth and success of Darien Elementary under his guidance.