Missouri Association of School Administrators

09/15/2026

Welcome back to the MCSA School Finance Academy for New School Leaders!

Today, new superintendents and school finance professionals gathered for the second session of this year-long professional learning experience, continuing their journey through the complex and critical world of school finance.

Led by Dr. Jim Cummins, Paul Northington, and Patty Bedrough, participants took a deeper dive into debt service and bond issues, reviewing the ASBR, navigating the Accounting Manual, and tackling real-world questions facing Missouri school districts.

The day also featured a robust roundtable discussion on the first 75 days in a leadership role, including conversations about state funding, tax rates, property assessments, and the challenges facing today's educational leaders.

We're proud to invest in the success of Missouri's newest school leaders and look forward to continuing the journey together throughout the academy.

Finance

09/15/2026

What an incredible showing from MASA members this morning!

School leaders from across Missouri packed the State Board of Education meeting as the A-F School Grading Framework came before the Board for consideration.

We are grateful to Dr. Adam Friga (Oran R-III), Dr. Kerry Sachetta (Joplin Schools), Dr. Mark Drake (Monett Schools), and Dr. Matt Goodman (Pattonville R-III) for providing testimony, offering important recommendations, and sharing their perspectives as Missouri school leaders.

Advocacy matters, and today's turnout was a powerful reminder that Missouri's education leaders are committed to ensuring every accountability conversation reflects the realities facing our schools and students.

Thank you to everyone who took the time to show up, speak up, and represent public education. 💙🍎

09/11/2026

Today, on the 25th anniversary of September 11, we pause to remember the 2,977 lives lost and honor the courage of the first responders, public servants, military members, and ordinary citizens who demonstrated extraordinary heroism in the face of tragedy.

For many of today's students, 9/11 is a historical event they did not experience firsthand. As educators and educational leaders, we have a responsibility to help future generations understand not only what happened that day, but also the values that emerged in its aftermath: service, sacrifice, resilience, and unity.

MASA encourages schools across Missouri to take time today to commemorate this anniversary through a moment of silence, age-appropriate lessons and discussions, student reflections, service projects, or other activities that help preserve the memory and meaning of September 11 for the next generation.

As we reflect on this solemn anniversary, we honor those we lost, recognize the heroes who answered the call, and recommit ourselves to ensuring the lessons of September 11 are never forgotten.

We remember. We honor. We will never forget.

09/07/2026

Missouri school administrators share worries about A-F report cards during Department of Elementary and Secondary Education feedback session.

09/07/2026

Happy Labor Day from MASA!

Today, we celebrate the hard work, dedication, and service of educators and professionals across Missouri who make a difference in their communities every day.

The MASA office will be closed in observance of Labor Day. We hope you enjoy a safe, restful holiday with family and friends.

09/04/2026

Southwest Missouri showed up in Springfield today! 🔥

Dr. Penny joined educational leaders from across the region at the Southwest MASA Regional Meeting, where an outstanding turnout reflected the strength and engagement of school leadership across Southwest Missouri.

The meeting featured important discussions on legislative advocacy, accountability, professional learning, school finance, and other key issues impacting Missouri schools.

A special thank you to Southwest Regional Representative Dr. Will Darter and Southwest MASA President Dr. Mark Drake for organizing and facilitating a successful meeting, and to Dr. Jordan Henegar and Dr. Nate Moore for their presentations on school finance topics and the Tight Times series.
Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to the meaningful conversations that help strengthen public education across Missouri.

Wishing everyone a happy Labor Day weekend!

09/02/2026

What a great way to start the school year! 🎉

Dr. Mark Penny attended today's Southeast Regional Meeting at Crabb & Company in Wappapello, where an outstanding turnout of district leaders from across Southeast Missouri gathered to connect, collaborate, and discuss the year ahead.

The overwhelming attendance was encouraging and reflects the strong commitment educational leaders have to supporting students, staff, and schools. Thank you to everyone who took time out of their busy schedules to attend these important regional conversations and share their leadership perspectives.

A special thank you to Dr. Fara Jones, Southeast Region Representative, and Dr. Brian Beard, Southeast Region President, for organizing and facilitating a successful meeting. We also appreciate Dr. Adam Friga, MASA President, for your outstanding leadership and commitment to Missouri's educational community. 📚

09/01/2026

A great day in Oran! 🦅

MASA spent the day visiting Oran R-III School District, led by MASA President Dr. Adam Friga. We saw firsthand the district's commitment to academic excellence, career readiness, student support, and a culture that helps students SOAR.

Thank you to Dr. Friga, the staff, and students for the warm welcome and hospitality. We look forward to sharing more in a special feature on Dr. Friga and Oran R-III in the Fall issue of The Missouri Administrator!

08/25/2026

🛡️ As the school year begins, now is a great time to review your district's safety resources and communication plans.

The annual SchoolSafety.gov Back-to-School Campaign provides school leaders with tools, guidance, and ready-to-use resources to support a community-based approach to school safety.

From district leadership teams to families and local partners, everyone has a role to play in creating safe and supportive schools.

🔗 Access the campaign resources: https://www.schoolsafety.gov/back-to-school-campaign

SchoolSafety.gov was created by the federal government to provide schools and districts with actionable recommendations to create a safe and supportive learning environment where students can thrive and grow.

08/22/2026

🏆 Who is the superintendent making an extraordinary impact in your school community?

Now is your chance to recognize their leadership. Nominations for the 2027 Missouri Superintendent of the Year Award are open through September 10.

Help us celebrate a superintendent who is making a difference for students, staff, and communities across Missouri.

👉 Submit your nomination today: soy.aasa.org