Iowa Board Disciplines Former School Superintendent

The Iowa Board of Educational Examiners issued a public reprimand and license suspension to former superintendent Paul Gausman.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Administration

Iowa Board Disciplines Former School Superintendent

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The Iowa Board of Educational Examiners has issued a public reprimand and a 180-day license suspension to former Sioux City superintendent Paul Gausman. The disciplinary action follows a settlement addressing ethics complaints filed by the Sioux City school board regarding Gausman's conduct while in office.

Why it matters

The board action highlights the enforcement of professional ethical standards for administrators following allegations of attempted bribery and the unauthorized release of confidential board information.

Gausman served as the superintendent of the Sioux City Community School District for 15 years. His administrative license, which expired in November 2024, now faces a 180-day suspension as a result of the public reprimand.

The players

Paul Gausman

He is a former superintendent of the Sioux City Community School District and Lincoln Public Schools who currently operates a music education franchise.

Iowa Board of Educational Examiners

This state regulatory body is responsible for certifying educators and enforcing the professional code of conduct for school administrators in Iowa.

Sioux City Community School District

This public school system serves the educational needs of students in the Sioux City area and was the site of the ethics complaints against Gausman.

The details

The Sioux City school board alleged that Gausman attempted to bribe board members in 2021 and leaked confidential complaints about a board member in 2025. Gausman signed a settlement order acknowledging his actions violated professional ethics standards.

Paul Gausman led the Sioux City Community School District from 2008 to 2023.
Gausman allegedly attempted to bribe board members in 2021.
Gausman stepped down as superintendent of Lincoln Public Schools in 2024.
The administrator's license expired in November 2024.
The board signed the order of reprimand on October 16, 2026.

Culture Shift

The action follows established enforcement protocols under the Iowa Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics for educators, marking a formal disciplinary step by the state regulatory board. This underscores a broader trend of increased accountability for administrative figures regarding internal governance.

The disciplinary order clarifies the professional standing of a former public official who remains active in local business as a franchise owner. Residents and stakeholders in districts where Gausman previously served can view this settlement as a final resolution regarding his prior ethics complaints.

The takeaway

This case highlights the enduring nature of professional records for public school administrators even after they leave a specific district. Professionals in similar roles should remain aware that ethics and licensure standards apply regardless of whether an individual moves to a different state or career.