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Missouri Commissioner of Education Dr. Karla Eslinger to Retire June 1

DESE announced that Dr. Karla Eslinger will retire from her current role as Missouri Commissioner of Education, effective June 1, 2026.

Read the full news release here

Students Lead Autism Awareness Summit

Riverview Gardens High School recently hosted a student-led Autism Awareness Summit in partnership with the Special School District of St. Louis County, creating opportunities for students to learn, connect, and support one another through conversations about inclusion, empathy, and self-advocacy.

Organized by junior Eric McMath, the summit featured student speakers, breakout sessions, performances, and a keynote address from SSD Superintendent Dr. Michael Maclin. The event highlighted the impact of student leadership and encouraged greater understanding and support for individuals with autism within the school community.

Free Hiring Tools Now Available for Missouri School Districts

As you may have heard, DESE recently won a 3-year grant to fund the new statewide educator job board. This includes free recruitment and hiring tools for districts around the state. Districts that opt in to use these free hiring tools can expand their reach to more candidates and fill vacancies faster.

• Access the new statewide educator job board
• Access free hiring tools

If you are not a district but want to learn more about the partnership and available resources, or if you have a question, contact partnerships@hirenimble.com.

SHOW-ME ECHO

Autism Behavior Solutions: Schools and Communities will improve the quality of care for children with autism by increasing knowledge and practice of behavioral management strategies. Sessions will be held from 1 to 2 p.m. the 1st and 3rd Monday of the month.

Click here to learn more about SHOW-ME ECHO

Review, Update, Improve Access

With the federal accessibility deadline extended, schools have more time to build on the progress already underway. Now is a great time to review and update existing materials and ensure new content is accessible from the start, helping every student fully engage in learning.

New DESE Tools Put School Data at Your Fingertips

DESE has launched the new School Building and District Matrix data visualization tools designed to support families. These resources enhance access to clear, user-friendly, and high-quality education data for communities across Missouri.

Access the news release regarding DESE's new School Building and District Matrix data visualization tools

Enrollment Open for Leadership Academy Cohort 41

Enrollment is now open for Cohort 41 of Leadership Academy for School Principals through the Missouri Leadership Development System (MLDS). Designed for administrators with at least two years of experience, the program helps principals strengthen instructional leadership, collaborate with peers, and support school improvement.

Learn more and register at this link