Mid-Missouri’s largest school district has selected an internal candidate as its next superintendent.
Dr. Jeff Klein will begin his new role as superintendent of Columbia Public Schools (CPS) on July 1: he is currently CPS’ chief academic officer. The district says Dr. Klein was selected after a nationwide search.
School board president Suzette Waters praises Dr. Klein’s ethics and integrity, adding that he’s approachable and accessible to CPS staff and to a wide range of stakeholders. CPS spokeswoman Michelle Baumstark tells 939 the Eagle that there were 22 applicants for the superintendent post. CPS is currently Missouri’s fourth-largest district with about 18,646 students.
Dr. Klein has written a letter to the community, saying his goal as superintendent is to cultivate what he calls a culture of connection, collaboration and transparency. He says he’s committed to open communication and to authentic engagement with all stakeholders.
Dr. Chris Belcher is currently serving as CPS’ interim superintendent. Dr. Belcher is serving as interim, after former CPS superintendent Dr. Brian Yearwood retired in December.
