Zach O’Brien was announced by the Waterloo Community School District to the position effective July 1, 2026, pending board approval.

Waterloo United is scheduled to open for the 2028-29 school year and will serve as the district’s comprehensive high school and a central hub for academic programming, career and technical education and student activities.

O’Brien will serve in a full-release leadership role during the 2026-27 and 2027-28 school years where his focus will be on strategic planning, staffing, academic alignment and the development of the school’s culture and identity.

“I am deeply honored to serve as the inaugural principal of Waterloo United High School,” O’Brien said. “Waterloo Schools has shaped my career and my purpose as an educator. This opportunity represents more than opening a new building — it’s about bringing our students, staff and community together to create a unified high school experience.”

Currently, O’Brien is the head principal at Bunger Middle School, having previously served in roles including instructional strategist, English teacher, PBDA coordinator and as the assistant principal at Waterloo West High School.

“Selecting the inaugural principal of Waterloo United High School is one of the most important leadership decisions our district will make for the next generation,” said Jared R. Smith, superintendent of Waterloo Community Schools. “Zach distinguished himself through his unwavering commitment to students, his deep understanding of our district and his clear vision for building a unified high school that prepares every student for success.”

O’Brien graduated from the University of Northern Iowa and holds a Bachelor’s in Teaching with a focus on Secondary English and a Master’s in Educational Leadership.

Along with his work in school leadership, O’Brien founded and directed Iowa Blue Star Basketball. He and his wife, Heidi, live in Waterloo with their two daughters.

Waterloo United will be a consolidation of Waterloo East and Waterloo West, forming one high school for the city.