DSD Announces Exciting Changes in Leadership
Douglas School District is proud to announce several key leadership changes at both the district and middle school levels. As part of our commitment to growth, leadership development, and continuous improvement, we are excited to recognize the following promotions:
- Courtney Crosswait – Executive Director of Secondary Academics
- Stacey Cowen – Middle School Principal
- Nathan Batteen – Middle School Assistant Principal
- Tori Nielsen – Middle School Dean of Students/Activities Director
Meet Our Leaders
Courtney Crosswait – Executive Director of Secondary Academics
With 17 years of experience in education, Courtney has served as a teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, and, most recently, principal of Douglas Middle School. She is deeply grateful to the students, families, and staff of DMS for their dedication, hard work, and shared accomplishments.
Courtney’s passion for education lies in fostering a supportive learning environment, strengthening relationships, and ensuring success for both students and educators. While she will miss her current role at DMS, she is eager to embrace this new challenge—one that allows her to make a broader impact across the district. In her new position, she looks forward to working alongside secondary schools to advance academic excellence, equity, and innovation.
Stacey Cowen – Douglas Middle School Principal
Bringing 30 years of experience in education, Stacey is deeply committed to fostering a positive and inclusive school culture. She spent 22 years teaching middle school students before transitioning into leadership, serving as Dean of Students for two years and Assistant Principal for six years.
Throughout her career, Stacey has remained passionate about academic excellence, student well-being, and collaboration. As principal, she looks forward to working closely with teachers, staff, students, and families to ensure DMS continues to be a place where learning, growth, and success are at the heart of everything we do.
Nathan Batteen – Assistant Principal
Nathan, a proud Douglas graduate, began his teaching career at Rockyford on the Pine Ridge Reservation before returning to Douglas in 2015. He spent six years at Vandenberg Elementary, helping establish the school’s foundation, and is currently the Dean of Students and Activities Director at Douglas Middle School.
In addition to teaching, Nathan has six years of coaching experience in high school football, including five as defensive coordinator and four years in track, specializing in long and triple jump. His dedication to education and athletics inspires students both in the classroom and on the field, and he looks forward to continuing this passion as assistant principal.
Tori Nielsen – Middle School Dean of Students/Activities Director
For six years, Tori has been an integral part of Douglas School District, working in special education at the high school and middle school levels. As a middle school case manager, she has been instrumental in supporting students and staff to ensure the success of all learners.
In addition to her work in education, Tori has spent six years coaching middle school volleyball and boys’ and girls’ basketball, as well as serving as an assistant girls’ basketball coach at the high school level. She is excited to step into leadership, where she looks forward to fostering growth and development for both students and staff.
We are thrilled to see these dedicated leaders step into their new roles and continue making a meaningful impact on our students, staff, and community. Please join us in congratulating them on their well-earned promotions!