Knob Noster Public Schools is pleased to announce that Mrs. Stephany Wasson has been selected as the next Principal for Whiteman Elementary School for the 2021-2022 school year.
Mrs. Wasson grew up in Belton, MO, where she graduated High School. She graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education in 2000 from Central Missouri State University, now UCM. She earned a Master’s degree in Elementary Administration in 2004 and an Education Specialist degree in Superintendency in 2013, both through William Woods University. Mrs. Wasson and her husband Aric currently reside in Warrensburg, with their two children Arynn and Kasen.
Mrs. Wasson was first hired by Knob Noster Public Schools in 2020 to serve as Assistant Principal at Knob Noster Middle School. Throughout this school year she has worked to build meaningful relationships with students, staff, and families, while also getting to know the military community. She has played a vital role in strengthening the building's positive climate and culture. She has worked alongside the building leadership team to plan and guide the staff toward implementation of the Leader In Me program at the middle level, as well as creating a new Mission and Vision for KNMS.
Prior to joining Knob Noster, Wasson served as Elementary Principal in Windsor for four years. During this time she worked to develop professional learning opportunities for her staff, including Trauma Informed Care strategies for use within the classroom. She has served in a variety of leadership roles including: curriculum design and implementation, district safety and security, staff evaluation, and a host of other responsibilities. Mrs. Wasson taught for 16 years in the Green Ridge, Oak Grove and Warrensburg school districts prior to transitioning into administration. It is through these experiences that she has become well versed in Positive Behavior Intervention Support (PBIS), Behavior Intervention Support Team (BIST), Professional Learning Communities (PLC), and Response to Intervention (RTI) practices within the classroom and school settings.
When asked about serving as Whiteman Elementary Principal, Mrs. Wasson stated, “I am honored to serve the students, families, and staff as the Principal at Whiteman Elementary. I have enjoyed this year at the middle school level, but I am looking forward to returning to the foundation of education at the elementary level. It is truly where the love and excitement for learning begins. I believe that the first step to creating a lasting foundation is through partnering with families. In doing so we can work together to help each student set goals for personal growth in an effort to reach their individual potential.”
Superintendent, Dr. Jerrod Wheeler shared, “We are pleased to promote Mrs. Wasson to Head Principal for Whiteman Elementary, following her successful year as Assistant Principal for KNMS. Mrs. Wasson’s strong prior experience as a Head Elementary Principal will serve her well in helping Whiteman Elementary rise to the next levels of success.”
Further information on a sendoff for Mrs. Jessica Stewart and a welcome event for Mrs. Wasson will be announced soon.