Three SPS principals honored for outstanding work

 

The Springfield region of the Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals has selected three SPS principals as representatives for the 2025-2026 MAESP Distinguished Principals Program.

The program chooses principals who demonstrate leadership that ensures Missouri's children acquire a sound foundation for lifelong learning and achievement. These principals will be recognized during MAESP’s annual Leadership Conference in March. 

Joanna Brockwell, principal at Watkins Elementary School, has been selected as Distinguished Principal. Her leadership has driven significant improvements in both behavioral and academic outcomes for the students.  She consistently goes above and beyond to support her staff and students, which is evidenced by her deep commitment to the mission of SPS.

Erica Hoemann, assistant principal at McGregor Elementary School, has been selected as Outstanding Assistant Principal. She is a confident leader whose calm presence, dependable leadership and genuine care have made a lasting impact. Her colleagues say she shows up daily with a positive attitude, jumps in and makes a difference with her daily actions.

Dr. Christen Glenn, principal at Jeffries Elementary School, has been selected as Exemplary New Principal. She has worked diligently to establish a culture of high expectations, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Under her leadership, Jeffries has earned recognition as a Tier 1 PBIS School of Excellence, which has resulted in implementing consistent behavior expectations, proactive supports and restorative practices that have strengthened school culture and improved student engagement.

The principals were recognized for their achievement at the Feb. 24 Board of Education meeting.