Derek Peng
Q: How long have you been at Ames High?
A: I started during the 2004-2005 school year.
Q: Did you work anywhere previously?
A: I have always worked with children and families.
I worked as a staff RN at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics
I worked as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in Iowa City on an inpatient unit and then for Story County in the Well Child Clinic.
I started in the Ames school district in 2001 as a school nurse at the elementary level.
Q: What are your plans for retirement?
A: I hope to travel a bit more, and spend more time with family. I also plan to continue some part time work, such as substituting as a school nurse.
Q: What’s your favorite memory at Ames high?
A: Both of my kids attended Ames High. I enjoyed being a parent helper at sporting events and going on 2 band trips each time with one of my kids.
Q: How has Covid impacted your job?
A: School Nursing is part of public health. Covid added more duties including: working on planning how to safely hold in person classes, contact tracing, increased communication with parents, students and staff.