Written by Monika Spaulding
With the constant changes in education and student needs, April Holder knew she wanted to help students, but also families, teachers and staff. Becoming an administrator allowed her to do just that.
“By moving to administration, I was able to wear more hats that allowed me to advocate for, support and impact more classrooms,” she said.
She is now taking that role to the next level as the assistant superintendent at Salem Community Schools.
Holder has had a long career in education. She was a teacher from 1999-2006; Reading Coach 2006-2007; Assistant Principal at East Washington from 2007-2010 and an elementary principal at Greater Clark from 2010-2024 and then Lanesville 2024-2026.
She is a 1995 graduate of New Albany High School and has lived in New Albany for 25 years with her husband, Don, who she has been married to for 27 years.
After graduating high school, she studied Elementary Education at Indiana University Southeast, where she went on to earn her Masters in Education and Administration License. She also has a High Ability License from Ball State and a Ph. D in Educational Leadership from Indiana State University.
Holder said what she is looking forward to most with her new position is getting to know the people who make Salem such a special place.
“I'm excited to build relationships with students, staff, families and the community while learning about the district's traditions, strengths, and goals,” she said. “I look forward to supporting our teachers and principals, celebrating successes, and working together to provide the best possible opportunities for every student. Most of all, I'm excited to be part of a team and work with Luke Dean to help all students learn, grow, and succeed.”
Holder said she started her administrative career in Washington County and wanted a chance to move back and lead in a new role, which is why she applied for the position. Now, with more experience and knowledge, she is ready to take on the assistant superintendent position.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of education is the opportunity to meet the diverse academic, social and emotional needs of every student,” she said. “While balancing resources and evolving expectations requires thoughtful planning and collaboration, these challenges inspire innovation and continuous improvement. I enjoy working alongside educators and families to find solutions that keep students at the center of every decision and help create the best possible learning environment for all.”
Holder said she loves seeing the face of a student when they celebrate their learning.
“You can see the joy and pride when hard work pays off and they have accomplished new learning or an educational goal,” she said.
While she won’t get to see that daily success in the classroom as assistant superintendent, Holder said her role is now to support the district by working alongside the superintendent, principals, teachers, staff, students and families.
“I want to be someone who is approachable, and is always willing to help,” she said. “Whether it's supporting teaching and learning, improving our schools, or solving challenges together, my focus is on building strong relationships and creating an environment where both students and staff feel supported and can be successful. I believe that by working together and keeping students at the center of our decisions, we can continue to help our district grow and thrive.”
One of her biggest priorities is building strong relationships with the staff, students, families and community.
“I want to spend time listening, learning, and getting to know what makes Salem such a special place while also identifying ways we can continue to grow,” she said. “I hope to support our teachers, celebrate the great things already happening in our schools, and work together to create even more opportunities for our students. By keeping communication open and always focusing on what's best for kids, I believe we can continue building a school district that everyone is proud to be a part of.”
Holder’s husband is also in education as a math and science teacher at Borden High School. The couple has four children: Cortney graduated from IUPUI and is an accountant in Carmel; Ethan graduated from Purdue Polytech and is a mechanical engineer in Paoli; Abby graduated from U of L and is currently in graduate school at Indiana State for school psychology; Avery is a junior at Floyd Central.
When she isn’t working, Holder said she loves to read and enjoys walking or hiking with friends and family.
“Vacations with my family are the highlight of the year!” she said.