Missouri Association of School Administrators

Today, MASA welcomed more than 21 leaders from across the state for the first session of our Advanced Leadership Program powered by FranklinCovey!

Under the guidance of veteran FranklinCovey trainer Gary McGuey, participants spent the day digging into the 4 Essential Roles of Leadership and exploring what it truly means to lead with clarity, trust, and purpose.

This new cohort brings incredible energy and experience, and we cannot wait to see how they apply today’s learning in their districts and communities. Here’s to growing, stretching, and rising to the challenge together! 💼✨

#MASALeads #ProfessionalDevelopment #FranklinCovey

We had a fantastic day at MASA today as we welcomed the South Central and Northeast Regions to our building for their regional meetings! 🎉

More than 70 school leaders gathered for meaningful conversations, updates, and collaboration that continues to move Missouri’s public schools forward. We are always grateful when our members fill the building with energy and purpose. 💙

A special thank you to our Region Presidents, Hilary Bales (South Central) and Zach Bruner (Northeast), for organizing today’s meetings and bringing their members together. Your leadership helps make these gatherings meaningful and productive. We also want to thank our presenters from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, Kelli Jones and Kyle Kruse, for sharing valuable updates and insights with both regions.

And a very big thank you to MOCATT for generously sponsoring today’s lunch. 🍽️ We appreciate your continued support of MASA and Missouri’s school leaders.

Thank you to everyone who joined us today — your commitment to your students, districts, and communities is inspiring.

#MASALeads

MASA had the pleasure of touring the Dunklin R-5 School District yesterday, which serves the communities of Herculaneum, Pevely, and Horine just south of St. Louis. From the moment we arrived, it was clear that Dunklin R-5 knows exactly who they are.

This district lives out its promise of a “Small School Feel with Big School Opportunities.” What stood out most was not a list of programs, but the mindset behind them.

“It’s all about the experience.” From Day 1 to Day 184, leaders stay visible, build relationships, focus on people, and constantly ask: “What do students and families need?”

✨ A Standout Investment in Staff
Dunklin’s onsite staff daycare, opened in 2022, currently serves 26 staff members, with more on the way. This level of support is rare and reflects a deep commitment to the well-being of educators and their families. It strengthens retention and communicates a powerful message: You matter here.

✨ A Culture You Can Feel
Connection is intentional across the district. Pevely Elementary’s Leader in Me Lighthouse status, High Five Fridays, Buddy Classrooms, and even a districtwide Guinness World Record project all contribute to a welcoming culture rooted in joy and belonging.

✨ Big Opportunities in a Small District
Despite its size, the district offers opportunities often found in larger systems, including free dual credit courses, Project Lead the Way pathways, and a growing esports program. Students benefit from expanded options while still experiencing the close-knit environment families value.

✨ A Facility That Elevates the Student Experience
One of the highlights of our visit was the district’s impressive new gym. It features a mezzanine level with an indoor track overlooking the basketball court, a modern wrestling room, and the Black Cat Café for concessions. It is a space designed not only for athletics, but for community, connection, and pride.

Dunklin R-5 shows what is possible when a district leads with purpose, people, and heart. Thank you to Superintendent Dr. Clint Freeman and the Dunklin leadership team for welcoming us and for the work you do each day to put students and families first.