Springfield school board offers Lathan contract through mid-2029 

Superintendent Grenita Lathan received her fifth contract extension to date, which will keep her in Springfield through mid-2029. 

The Springfield Public Schools Board of Education voted unanimously Jan. 20 to extend the contract by one year after completing Lathan’s annual review.  

“The Board of Education continues to be very pleased with Dr. Lathan’s leadership and steadfast commitment to serving all students,” said board president Judy Brunner, in a Jan. 21 news release.  

“In our assessment of the previous year, the board noted significant improvements in academic achievement across all student groups, strong relationships with community stakeholders and the effective implementation of systems to drive positive outcomes districtwide.” 

As part of Lathan’s annual evaluation, the board noted the following strengths: 

• Three years of consecutive growth on the annual performance review issued by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education 

• Improvement in academic proficiency levels, attendance and graduation rate – which was a record 99% in 2025 

• Higher student achievement scores in English, math, science and social studies 

• Ongoing efforts to build and strengthen relationships with stakeholders through events with parents, students, teachers, community members and state lawmakers 

The board also praised Lathan’s work to revamp employee evaluations, train paraprofessionals, expand positive behavioral interventions and support, align district curriculum with state standards and develop budgets that prioritize academic and operational needs.  

“SPS is making great strides, and we are incredibly proud of each and every educator, support staff and student who is working incredibly hard,” Brunner said. “These results reflect amazing teamwork.” 

Lathan, who was hired in mid-2021, said she sought the contract extension. She previously worked in Texas, Illinois, and California. Her salary is $368,176 and annual pay increases are based on the amount given to teachers. 

“I am very thankful for our Board of Education’s shared vision and support – and for their tireless volunteer service,” Lathan said in the release. “It is such an honor to serve Missouri’s district of choice, and I thank each member of team SPS for the focus and dedication they have demonstrated over the past year. It has been this team’s exceptional commitment to academic achievement for all students that has led to important gains. While we celebrate together, we recognize that much work remains. Together, guided by our strategic plan, we can continue making significant progress, achieving even greater milestones.”