Learning Division
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Please take a moment to view the 2023-24 Instructional Update which includes exciting news concerning the following:
- MAP / EOC scores
- The DESE waiver for the Annual Performance Report
- The 23-24 goals for instructional improvement
- The curriculum writing process
The video below gives a brief overview of our five-year improvement journey.
Learning Division Administrators

Phone: 417-582-5951
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Dr. Craig Carson
Assistant Superintendent of Learning
Doctorate in Educational Leadership - Saint Louis University
The Assistant Superintendent of Learning oversees all levels of curriculum development and implementation, supervising the Executive Director of Secondary Learning, the Executive Director of Elementary Learning, the Executive Director of Special Services and the Executive Director of Student Services.

Phone: 417-582-5962
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Gerald Chambers
Executive Director of Secondary Learning
Education Specialist Degree - Southwest Baptist University
The Executive Director of Secondary Learning oversees secondary (junior school and high school) principals and instructional coaches.

Phone: 417-582-5953
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Dr. Kent Sappington
Executive Director of Elementary Learning
Doctorate in Educational Leadership - Evangel University
The Executive Director of Elementary Learning oversees Tiger Paw, elementary and middle school principals and instructional coaches.

Phone: 417-582-5974
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Dr. Kim Fitzpatrick
Executive Director of Student Services
Doctorate in Educational Leadership - St. Louis University
The Executive Director of Student Services oversees federal programs, the health services department, school resource officers, intervention and counselors. Dr. Fitzpatrick also serves as the homeless and foster care liaison for the District.

Phone: 417-582-5986
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Dr. Laura Eakins
Executive Director of Special Services
Doctorate in Educational Leadership - William Woods University
The Executive Director of Special Services oversees the Tiger Paw Early Childhood Center special education, gifted education, special education, process coordinators and therapists.