We are thrilled to announce that our Executive Director, Dr. Pam Hedgpeth, has been honored as a Pioneer in Education by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Dr. Hedgpeth is one of six distinguished individuals who will be recognized during the 63rd Annual Cooperative Conference for School Administrators.
“These individuals have been true champions for education in Missouri throughout their careers, advocating for students and embodying our department’s mission to provide access to opportunities,” said Commissioner of Education Karla Eslinger. “DESE is honored to recognize the hard work and dedication of these Pioneers in Education.”
Pam Hedgpeth, Clever, started her first job in education as a fifth-grade teacher in Cassville, Missouri, before moving to the Republic School District. During her time at Republic, Pam was a part of the team that established the Southwest Regional Curriculum Group, pioneering the unpacking of standards and aligning curriculum. Within the district, Pam worked collectively with teams of teachers to create an MSIP designated model curriculum and professional learning program, and served on many DESE state committees related to model curriculum, MAP benchmark setting, and MSIP advising.
Pam currently serves as Executive Director of the Greater Ozarks Cooperating School Districts. Leading initiatives to support more than 100 districts in southwest and southeast Missouri, she champions professional learning, partnership development, and educational advocacy. She also currently facilitates the Success-Ready Students Network, guiding districts in reimagining education through personalized, competency-based learning.
State education officials have presented the Pioneer in Education awards for 49 years, which honor teachers, school administrators, citizens, and lawmakers for their distinguished careers and contributions to public education in Missouri.
Alongside Dr. Hedgpeth, the other honorees being recognized as Pioneers in Education are:
Jeanette Cowherd, Kansas City
Mike Jones, St. Louis
Richard Presberry, Jefferson City
Bill Rebore, St. Charles
Gary Romine, Farmington
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Pam Hedgpeth for this well-deserved recognition. Her dedication and passion for education have made a lasting impact on countless students and educators across Missouri. We are proud to have her as our leader at GOCSD.