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The Office of the Superintendent

The superintendent is the top executive ("CEO") in Kansas City Public Schools. The superintendent implements the school board’s vision by making day-to-day decisions about educational programs, spending, staff, and facilities. The superintendent hires, supervises, and manages the central staff and principals.  The position also must work with school leaders -- principals -- to serve the needs of students and meet the district goals.

The superintendent must also respond to the demands of all the other constituencies and interest groups in the district: teachers, students, parents, staff, advocates, and the community at large. She or he must consider how to use the financial and human resources of the district in order to achieve the best results. While being mindful of competing demands, a great superintendent will be guided by what is best for all students.

DR. JENNIFER COLLIER - SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS

Dr. Jennifer Collier

Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Collier has served as an educator in Kansas City Public Schools for 22 years. She's been a teacher, assistant principal, principal, Chief Human Resource Officer and Deputy Superintendent. Dr. Collier earned a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Kansas, a Master’s of Arts in education from Avila University and an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. She received her doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from UMKC in 2018. A life-long learner, Dr. Collier has completed the National Institute of School Leaders (NISL) program and is a certified NISL trainer. In this role, she has provided training for educators and school leaders across the state of Missouri. She also received a certificate from the Harvard University School Turnaround Leaders Institute in 2019. Additionally, Dr. Collier is Professional of Human Resources (PHR) certified. 

The Office of the Superintendent includes:

  • KCPS Superintendent
    • Executive Assistant to the Superintendent
  • Deputy Superintendent
  • Chief Legal Officer
  • Chief Operating Officer
  • Chief Financial Officer
  • Chief Academic Officer
  • Chief Communications and Community Engagement Officer
  • Chief Technology Officer
BOE Building

Superintendent's Cabinet

Dr. Derald Davis - DEPUTY SUPERINTENDENT & CHIEF EQUITY OFFICER

Dr. Derald Davis Interim Deputy Superintendent

The Deputy Superintendent supervises the following departments/offices:

  • Equity
  • Research & Accountability
  • Safety & Security
  • Educational Systems (Charter Sponsorships)
  • Admissions
  • Organizational Planning

Jordan Gordon - Chief Operating Officer

Jordan Gordon

The Chief Operations Officer supervises the following department/offices:

  • Human Resources
  • Risk Management
  • Facilities & Construction
  • Transportation
  • Custodial Services
  • Foodservices

ERIN THOMPSON - CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Erin Thompson, Interim Chief Financial Officer

The Chief Financial Officer supervises the following departments/offices:

  • Budgeting
  • Business Services
  • Purchasing
  • Payroll
  • Benefits
  • Accounting & Fiscal Planning

Dr. LaTanya Franklin - Chief Academic Officer

LaTanya Franklin

The Chief Academic Officer supervises the following department/offices:

  • Curriculum, Instruction & Professional Development
  • Student Support Services
  • School Leadership
  • Digital Learning

Nicole Collier-White, CNP - Chief Communications & Community Engagement Officer

Nicole Collier-White

The Chief Communications & Community Engagement Officer supervises the following department/offices:

  • Community Engagement
  • Partnerships
  • Education Foundation
  • Public Relations & Media Inquiries

SCOTT JONES - CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER

scott jones

The Chief Technology Officer supervises the following department/offices:

  • Educational Technology
  • Cybersecurity
  • Engineering & Logistics
  • Help Desk

Shana Long - Chief Legal Counsel

Shana Long

More information coming soon.

 

The Chief Legal Counsel supervises the following department/offices:

  • Title IX
  • Government Relations
  • Contracts
  • Agency Claims & Litigation
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