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Monett names interim school superintendent

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Monett R-1 Schools has an interim superintendent on the job for the remainder of the 2020-21 school year.  

The Monett school board announced the appointment of longtime educator Kent Medlin to the post, according to a news release. He fills the role following the sudden death of Russ Moreland, who had served as Monett superintendent since 2018. Medlin began work Monday for the district. 

“I have great respect for the Monett R-1 School District and have had many good friends serve in the district through the years,” Medlin said in the release. “I am honored to have an opportunity to serve our students and staff. Together, we will ensure every team member has what they need to be successful in the days and weeks ahead.” 

Medlin has worked in school district leadership positions in the past. He retired in 2017 after 13 years as superintendent for Willard Public Schools, and he also served as a teacher and administrator for Springfield Public Schools, as well as principal in the Lamar and Willard school districts, according to the release. 

“The board appreciates Dr. Medlin’s commitment to serving our district with excellence – especially as we journey through this sad time together,” said Monett R-1 School District Board of Education President Andrew Bahl, in the release. “His depth of experience will be incredibly helpful as we remain focused on serving our students and community.” 

It’s the second interim education role for Medlin in as many years. Medlin and Stephen Kleinsmith were appointed in June 2019 as interim co-deputy superintendents of academics for SPS following the departure of Chief Learning Officer Mike Dawson. SPS promoted Nicole Holt in February to deputy superintendent of academics and she took over the role in July from Medlin and Kleinsmith, according to past Springfield Business Journal reporting. 

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