Cory Nikkel
Head of High School

Mr. Nikkel is driven to challenge and inspire children to deepen their faith and their commitment to follow Jesus. In 2021 Mr. Nikkel became Head of High School at DMC. Other positions Mr. Nikkel has held at DMC include Director of Spiritual Life, Middle School Assistant Principal,  6-12 Resource teacher, and middle school Bible and science teacher.

"I see High School at DMC as a place to belong within a vibrant community that spurs you on into a deeper discover of who God made you to be. In our culture, teachers know our students multi-dimensionally. Students are seen, loved, and supported. Academic expectations are high because we have the people and support systems in place to partner with our students and families to be successful."

With these expectations, comes a higher level of trust and independence for our students. Leadership opportunities allow students to shape the culture of their school. Student voice, plus student choice, equal student ownership. The best part of this great work is that we get to do all of this through a Biblical worldview."

Mr. Nikkel’s passion and energy are hard to top and he has a natural ability to meaningfully engage with students and faculty alike. He joined DMC after teaching college prep English and literature for five years in the Montezuma Community School District.  

Mr. Nikkel completed his undergraduate work at Central College in Pella, IA, and holds a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Northern Iowa. He continues his education involvement as a part of the School Administrator's of Iowa (SAI), Central College Education Advisory Committee, and Grand Canyon University College of Education Advisory Board. 

When his schedule allows, Mr. Nikkel loves to travel throughout the nation motivating and speaking to students, young adults, teachers, and school leaders.