Garfield Re‑2 names Rob Dean as principal of Rifle Middle School

The Garfield Re‑2 School District is pleased to announce that longtime Rifle Middle School (RMS) administrator Rob Dean has been selected to serve as the school’s next principal, effective July 1, 2025, pending Board of Education approval at its June 25 meeting.

Dean takes the reins from outgoing principal Jenny Nipper. Nipper was recently named the next Assistant Superintendent for Garfield Re-2. Mrs. Nipper officially begins her tenure on July 1, 2025, and has already begun her work at the District Office.

Dean brings 23 years of educational experience—spanning teacher, assistant principal, high‑school principal, and athletics director—to his new post, along with a Master of Education in Administration from the University of North Texas, and a Bachelor's degree in Political Science from the University of Oklahoma. Yet it’s the relationships he has built at RMS that fuel his excitement.

“After spending six years at Rifle Middle, it feels like a second family for me,” he said. “I appreciate what we are doing at RMS - trying to make it a better place for students to learn and a place where staff enjoy working.”

Dean shared that while the name on the Principal’s door will change, when students, staff, and families return to Rifle Middle School in August, it should feel very familiar.

“We’ll keep doing what’s working and try to improve little by little every day.” He emphasized a commitment to fairness and transparency when making tough decisions. “I look for solutions that are fair and consistent for all,” he noted. “We want to build trust with everyone—students, staff, parents, and community members.”

Incoming Superintendent Kirk Banghart underscored the strengths Dean brings to the role:

“We reviewed an outstanding slate of candidates, yet Rob’s student‑focused vision, data‑driven approach, and record of steady leadership stood out,” Banghart said. “His relationships with staff, students, and families, and his clear commitment to ethical, values‑based leadership, position Rifle Middle School for continued success. I’m eager to partner with him in this next chapter.”