BRANSON, MO (April 12, 2024) – Branson Public Schools is pleased to announce the following leadership appointments effective for the 2024-2025 school year.
The district will add a new administrative position for the upcoming school year: Director of Early Childhood. This new role underscores the district’s commitment to providing high-quality early childhood education and support services to the community’s youngest learners. The Director of Early Childhood will oversee and coordinate all aspects of the district’s early childhood education programs including preschool offerings, Branson Parents as Teachers programming, and family engagement initiatives.
“As we continuously strive to enhance the educational experience for all students in Branson Public Schools, we recognize that focusing on early childhood education lays the foundation for future academic success," says Superintendent Dr. Brad Swofford. “The establishment of the Director of Early Childhood position reflects our dedication to providing support and resources to our youngest learners and their families.”
Dr. Staci Ray has been appointed as Cedar Ridge Primary’s Director of Early Childhood for the 2024-25 school year. Dr. Ray will work alongside district administrators, including Cedar Ridge Primary principal, Carol Furman.
Dr. Staci Ray - Photo courtesy of Branson Public Schools
Dr. Ray joined the district in 2016, teaching Kindergarten. In 2018, she became an Instructional Coach for the district and currently serves in this role at Cedar Ridge Intermediate. Dr. Ray received a Bachelor’s degree from College of the Ozarks. She received both a Master’s degree in Educational Administration and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership/Higher Education Administration from Lindenwood University. She and her husband Drew have two sons.
"I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as the Director of Early Childhood for Branson Public Schools," says Dr. Ray. "I am committed to ensuring all young learners in our community have access to high-quality early childhood programming that will establish the groundwork for lifelong success."
Jared Howerton has been named the new Activities Director/Assistant Principal for Branson Junior High School. Howerton replaces Logan Wilson, who has accepted a position with Carthage School District.
Jared Howerton - Photo courtesy of Branson Public Schools
Howerton began teaching Physical Education with the district in 2014. In 2019, he became the Assistant Principal for Buchanan Elementary, and also currently serves as the Buchanan Campus Youth Activities Coordinator. Howerton received a Bachelor’s degree from College of the Ozarks and a Master’s degree in Educational Administration from Lindenwood University. He and his wife Kelsey have four sons.
"I look forward to working collaboratively with Branson Junior High students, staff, and school families to create engaging extracurricular experiences that complement our academic programs and contribute to the positive development of our students,” says Howerton.
As previously announced earlier this school year, other administration updates for 2024-2025 include:
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● Rebecca Ash will succeed Dr. Bryan Bronn who is retiring after serving as principal of Branson Junior High for the past 15 years
Rebecca Ash - Photo courtesy of Branson Public Schools -
● Stephanie Martin will replace Dr. Kendra Scott as Cedar Ridge Elementary Assistant Principal
Stephanie Martin - Photo courtesy of Branson Public Schools -
Ray, Howerton, Ash, and Martin will begin their new duties July 1.
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The above press release is from Branson Public Schools.
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