Ozark superintendent’s contract extended through 2029

The Ozark School District Board of Education voted Jan. 27 to keep Superintendent Lori Wilson in the district’s top job through mid-2029.

Wilson was offered a one-year contract extension, which she accepted. In Missouri, school superintendents are typically placed on a rolling three-year contract with one-year extensions determined as part of an annual evaluation process.

“Dr. Wilson leads with integrity, experience and a genuine heart for students and staff,” Ozark board President Amber Bryant said in a news release. “Ozark schools are in a strong position, and the board is excited to continue working alongside her as we build on the positive momentum across the district.”

Wilson started the administrative part of her career in Ozark in 2009 and returned to the district in 2022 as assistant superintendent of business and chief financial officer. Her career includes a stint as superintendent of the West Plains School District.

She was initially named Ozark’s interim superintendent in mid-2023, after the retirement of Chris Bauman, and the board offered her the job in December 2023.

Wilson has been in public education for more than 25 years. Her other leadership experience includes roles as principal of Nixa Junior High and assistant superintendent of Aurora Public Schools.

Salary changes are decided in June. Wilson said her current pay is nearly $209,000.

“It is an honor to work in Ozark with incredible students, staff, families and community members,” Wilson said in the release. “There is so much positive momentum in Ozark schools and throughout the Ozark community. I am excited to continue serving, moving forward with ongoing initiatives and seeing the completion of several important projects.”