Sidelight: Josh Ehn

Days before a track and field meet in spring 2022, the usual starter couldn’t officiate, so superintendent Josh Ehn of Iowa’s Oelwein Community School District moved fast to fill the void. Over two days, he studied up on the sport’s rules and received special permission to serve as official event starter. It became more than a one-off substitution for the former University of Northern Iowa football player. Ehn, 40, a superintendent for seven years (and AASA member since 2017), earned certification to referee both basketball and junior varsity football games to alleviate the critical shortage of game officials. The added work carries its rewards. “In the capacity as a superintendent, you’re protected by layers of principals, teachers and then students, and you’re really far removed,” Ehn says. “As a game official, it’s just you and them.”