Ozark School District selects superintendent

Lori Wilson, interim superintendent for the Ozark School District, has been appointed to the role on a permanent basis.

The district's board of education voted unanimously yesterday to choose Wilson as superintendent, according to a news release. The district's assistant superintendent of business and chief financial officer, she's been interim superintendent this year in place of Chris Bauman, who retired as superintendent this summer.

“I am truly dedicated to the mission of the district, and I will apply myself diligently to earn the trust and respect of each and every one of you," Wilson said in the release, referring to the district's staff, community and families. "We will build upon the existing foundation to maintain safe and innovative learning environments, increase the achievement levels of all students, expand the knowledge base of all staff and ensure members of our community are lifelong learners and problem solvers each and every day.”

The board has removed the interim title and appointed Wilson as superintendent for the remainder of the 2023-24 academic year. Her official contract starts July 1, 2024, with a $200,000 salary, officials say.

Wilson was selected from a field of 23 applicants and six finalists, according to past reporting.

“I believe that selecting a new superintendent is not just about finding a leader; it's about identifying a visionary who will inspire, empower and uplift our educational community,” Ozark board President Sarah Adams Orr said in the release. “Dr. Wilson’s passion for education, proven leadership and commitment to student achievement align seamlessly with our vision for the future of our schools and our mission of providing ‘high-quality education for each student’s future-readiness.’”

Wilson has 24 years of education experience. After starting her administrative career in Ozark, she returned to the district in 2022 as assistant superintendent of business and CFO.