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Springfield, MO
Springfield Public Schools Superintendent Grenita Lathan has received her second contract extension since being hired by the district in summer 2021.
In completing its annual evaluation of the superintendent, the SPS Board of Education unanimously approved a one-year contract extension, according to a news release issued yesterday. That puts Lathan on track to lead the district at least through the 2025-26 academic year.
“The board of education is confident that Dr. Lathan is the best leader for this district, at the right time in our journey, and we are extremely fortunate to benefit from her leadership,” said Denise Fredrick, board president, in the release. “During her tenure, Dr. Lathan has worked with SPS staff, the board and our community to guide our district through challenging times.
"This includes efforts to emerge from a pandemic, keep students and staff as safe and healthy as possible, while remaining continually focused on outstanding academic opportunities for every child.”
Lathan previously was granted a one-year contract extension about a year ago, according to past reporting.
With the latest extension, the board pointed to Lathan's work in updating the district's strategic plan, providing effective communication with internal and external stakeholders, and restructuring district leadership and departments, according to the release.
SPS Chief Communications Officer Stephen Hall said Lathan's current salary is $318,240. Pay increases for the superintendent are tied to districtwide cost-of-living adjustments approved by the board, Hall added.
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