School Board
The Ozark School District is proud to have an experienced and dedicated Board of Education, who provide oversight and guidance for our District. The Board ensures that district operations align with state statutes, Missouri State Board of Education regulations, and District policies, while remaining aware of the educational needs and financial responsibilities.
The Ozark Board of Education typically meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, with open session beginning at approximately 7:00 p.m. at the Ozark Innovation Center, these meeting days may change due to conflicts, please check the calendar for updates. Meeting agendas are posted on our website at least 24 hours in advance to ensure transparency.
To keep the community informed, School Board minutes are archived after each meeting, and open session recordings are available on the Ozark Tigers YouTube channel. This commitment to transparency and access reflect the Board’s dedication to serving the needs of our District and community.
Amber Bryant - President
Joined the Ozark Board of Education in 2023
Term Expires 2026
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Christian County Director of Employee Services
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Bachelor of Science from Missouri Southern State University, and PHR and SHRM-CP certifications
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Board Member of the Ozark Historic River District
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Advisory Board Member for Care to Learn—Ozark
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PTA member
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Married to Chris Bryant and together they have two daughters, Isabelle and Emmalyn, who attend Ozark Schools
"I'm thankful for the opportunity to serve on the Ozark School Board. I will use my time as a board member to try to make education in Ozark the best it can be for our children, teachers and the entire community."
Email: AmberBryant@OzarkTigers.org
James Griffin - Vice President
Joined the Ozark Board of Education in 2024
Term Expires 2027
- 21 Years, U.S. Navy Commander (Retired)
- Owner & President, JM Pro Consulting
- Bachelor of Science, Computer Information Systems, Jacksonville University
- Master’s of Business Administration, American Military University
- Joint Professional Military Education, U.S. Naval War College
- Former U.S. Navy MH-53E Pilot
- Former Commander of the Navy Reserve Center, Springfield, MO
- Former President, Board of Directors, Light the Way Ministry
- Member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars
- Volunteers as an Ozark Youth Soccer Coach, in local churches, and various non-profits
- Married to his high school sweetheart, Michelle. He has 3 amazing boys who attended Ozark Schools.
"Education is the key to unlocking the potential inside every student. Together, we can empower the next generation of leaders that will impact Ozark and the Springfield area, Missouri, and the USA."
Email: JamesGriffin@OzarkTigers.org
Sarah Adams Orr
Joined the Ozark Board of Education in 2012
Term Expires 2028
- Fifth-generation Ozark resident
- Graduated from OHS in 1987
- Bachelor’s in Arts from New York University
- Owner and funeral director of Adams Funeral Home in Ozark and Nixa
- Founder and board member of the Finley River Community Foundation
- Founder and board member for Impact 100 Ozark
- Founder and board member for Ozark School District Education Foundation
- Founder and member of Ozark National Day of Prayer Committee
- Member of the National and Missouri Funeral Directors Association
- Member of Ozark and Nixa Chambers of Commerce
"I enjoy visiting our schools and taking part in committees. I've learned a lot in the past decade on the Ozark School Board. I am more excited than ever about the future of Ozark Schools!"
Matthew Growcock
Joined the Ozark Board of Education in 2025
Term Expires 2026
Elected as the MSBA Delegate
"It’s an honor to serve on the Ozark School Board and support a district committed to innovation and student success. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work alongside our educators, families, and community to ensure every student is prepared for their future."
Dustin Kirkman
Joined the Ozark Board of Education in 2024
Term Expires 2027
Elected as the MSBA Alternate Delegate
"I'm thankful to serve on the Ozark School Board and stay actively involved in a community I care deeply about. Being connected to both our schools and the wider Ozark community allows me to help bridge the two, and I'm committed to supporting the mission and vision that guide our students toward future success."
Christina Tonsing
Joined the Ozark Board of Education in 2023
Term Expires 2026
- Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in mathematics
- For 28 years, Christina has been helping students master concepts in mathematics classes. She taught full-time for 7 years in an area high school and part-time for 21 more years at local colleges (several years at MSU, then several more years at OTC, and, most recently at Evangel University). She also enjoys helping students individually as a math tutor.
- Board member of the 7th District Missouri Republican Assembly
- Co-founder of the local Missouri Republican Assembly
- Serves on the Christian County Republican Central Committee
- Co-founder of Gospel for Haiti
“I am so thankful for the opportunity to represent Ozark voters, and I take the responsibility to listen and talk with you very seriously."
Rae-Ann Wade
Joined the Ozark Board of Education in 2025
Term Expires 2028
- 12 credit hours toward a Doctorate in Educational Administration
- Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction
- Bachelor of Science in secondary education and secondary mathematics
- 8 years as a junior high and high school mathematics teacher
- 3 years as a school principal
- Cheer and JROTC booster member
- PTA member
- Long-time Ozark resident
- Married to John Wade and they have six children, Ryan, Garrett, John, Victoria, Addison, and Anna
“My goal is to contribute meaningfully to the district’s success by leveraging my education, experience, and dedication to benefit our community. I am passionate about fostering an environment where students can thrive, teachers feel supported, and families are confident in the quality of education being provided.”
Email: raeannwade@ozarktigers.org
Board Secretary
Barbara Buonconsiglio
Email: BarbaraBuonconsiglio@OzarkTigers.org