ANKENY, IA, July 29, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Danny Ray Koss has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Mr. Koss, a distinguished retired principal, dedicated his career to the field of education. Leaving an indelible mark on countless students and colleagues. His journey in teaching and leadership began with his role as a teacher and principal at Des Moines Public Schools from 1994 to 2018. During this time, he demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to fostering an environment where students and teachers could thrive. Many achievements distinguished his time in the position, including a heartfelt send-off and a Golden Apple Award from the Des Moines Schools Superintendent.

Prior to his role as principal at Des Moines Schools, Mr. Koss served as principal at Perkins Elementary School. His leadership grew through teaching and administration at Willard Elementary, Morris Elementary, and Weeks Middle School. His Marine Corps service enhanced his commitment to education, fostering the discipline and perseverance he applied to supporting staff, students, and parents.

Mr. Koss's strong academic background fueled his success in teaching and administration. He graduated Summa Cum Laude from Viterbo University in 2002 with a Master of Arts in Education (K-12 administration) and a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education.

With his academic credentials, Mr. Koss held adjunct professor positions at Upper Iowa University (where he received Teacher of the Year) and taught master's-level classes at Viterbo University. The skills and knowledge gained from his academic achievements enabled him to excel and make a significant difference to the lives of the students, parents, and staff he served.

Mr. Koss's extensive volunteer work demonstrates a deep commitment to children's civic engagement. Volunteering for children's charities and supporting their needs is a key part of his life, including teaching Sunday school at Ankeny Methodist and coaching youth sports.

Mr. Koss feels immense pride in the success of his former students, many of whom have returned to express their gratitude for his influence on their lives. His most significant accomplishment, he believes, is fostering relationships with students and families who've triumphed over adversity to transform a negative culture and realize their aspirations.

Beyond his career achievements, Mr. Koss values his family—wife, two daughters, and three grandchildren—who supported his career ambitions. Western mountain hiking, fishing, reading, and travel are among his favorite pastimes.

Mr. Koss intends to continue his volunteer work mentoring students who find it hard to believe in their potential for success. Alongside his role as a Clinical Experience Supervisor for future junior teachers at Iowa State University, he aspires to complete a book.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

# # #