Branson schools make four leadership changes, hire Springfield principal
The Branson school district announced three leadership promotions — prompted, in part, by retirements — and the hiring of a Springfield principal.
The retirements include David Large, activities director for Branson High School, and Rob Watson, the director of transportation. Large has been with the district nine years and Watson for 22 years.
Three leadership changes involve staffing at Branson High School. The job changes will be in effect July 1.
“Education is the foundation for success at Branson High School, and we are committed to providing our students with the tools and opportunities to not only excel academically, but to also develop into versatile individuals who are prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future," said high school principal Jack Harris, in a recent news release.
"I am confident our new administrators will successfully support our students and staff to create an environment where every student can reach their full potential.”
Brandon Wilson, activities director for Branson Junior High, will replace Large as activities director at the high school.
Wilson, in the district 24 years, has been a physical education teacher and coach for football, basketball and track at the junior high and high school.
He is a graduate of Branson High School and has bachelor's and master's degree from Missouri State University and an education doctorate from the University of Arkansas.
Lourenco, assistant principal for Branson High School, will be the new director of transportation, replacing Watson.
He has spent 18 years in southwest Missouri districts including Webb City and Joplin. He has a master's degree from Missouri State and an education doctorate from Southwest Baptist University.
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"I look forward to working with the staff, students and community to ensure that all students have access to safe and reliable transportation to and from school," he said, in the release.
Lourenco's job change leaves a vacancy that will be filled by Carter, assistant principal at Cedar Ridge Intermediate.
Carter, a former science teacher at Branson High School, has also served as an assistant high school principal in Cassville.
“I am thrilled to support the current administration and staff at Branson High School to continue providing a high-quality educational experience to all students,” said Carter, in a release.
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He has a bachelor's degree from College of the Ozarks, a master's degree from Missouri State, and an education doctorate from SBU.
Sara Strohm, principal of Springfield's Reed Academy for three years, will be assistant principal at Branson High School. She was previously a teacher in Bolivar and Seymour.
“I believe that every student deserves a supportive learning environment and I am committed to working with the faculty, staff and families to provide just that," Strohm said, in the release. "I am eager to get to know our students, learn from our teachers, and be a part of shaping the future of Branson High School."
Strohm has a bachelor's degree from Missouri State and both a master's degree and specialist degree from William Woods University. She and her husband, Byron, has two sons enrolled in the district.
This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Branson schools make four leadership changes, hire SPS principal
