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Wilson’s Creek Intermediate Sees Principal Change Again
Springfield Public Schools recently announced a significant leadership shift at Wilson’s Creek Intermediate, with Ron Woodard taking over as principal less than four months after the appointment of Mark Davis II.
The series of changes began with the retirement of long-serving principal Karyn Christy, who retired in June. Mark Davis II, who has a diverse educational background including experience in both traditional and charter schools, assumed the role on July 1. His previous positions ranged from rural districts to urban environments, including stints in Jefferson City and St. Louis. Davis has also been recognized as a School Founders Fellow with New Schools for Alabama and holds a doctorate from Saint Louis University.
However, just months into his tenure, the district announced on October 25 that Woodard, a member of the Springfield Public Schools leadership team since 2020, would assume the principal role immediately. This decision followed a regular personnel report update from the school board.
Initially, there were indications that Davis would transition to another role within the district. However, following a request for clarification from local media, the school district confirmed that Davis chose to resign from his position, effective December 20, with a salary listed at $110,922.
Wilson’s Creek Intermediate, which opened in 2005 to help alleviate overcrowding in neighboring elementary schools, gained notable recognition for its academic excellence during the 2021-22 school year. It was honored with the National Blue Ribbon award and the Missouri Gold Star school, which resulted in a visit from Governor Mike Parson.
As for Woodard, he has shifted from his previous role as director of family support services, a position in which he addressed various challenges for students and families, such as financial issues and mental health needs. He also played a crucial role in community outreach initiatives like the annual Back to School Bash, which provides essential resources to struggling families.
Woodard’s extensive experience includes 16 years at Metro Nashville Public Schools as a middle and high school leader and a seventh-grade science teacher. He has also been active in youth development programs and educational leadership roles in Maury County Public Schools in Tennessee, where he was involved in overseeing an intermediate school.
Throughout his career, Woodard has been recognized for his contributions to youth development, dropout prevention, and college readiness. He earned his doctoral degree from Lipscomb University.
Despite questions regarding the nature of his appointment, the district confirmed that Woodard’s position as principal is permanent, with his previous duties as director of family support services now reassigned. His compensation of $135,076 will remain unchanged for the duration of the 2024-25 academic year.
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This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Wilson’s Creek Intermediate gets second new principal in 4 months
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