Andrea Fraser, assistant principal at Wilson’s Creek Intermediate School, will be the next principal of gifted education for Springfield Public Schools. She succeeds Lenae Lazzelle, who is retiring.
Fraser has 24 years of experience, including 16 in school leadership roles. She has been principal at Boyd and Fremont elementary schools.
She started her career in Springfield as a gifted education teacher.
“As the next Principal of Gifted Education for Springfield Public Schools, I am driven by the opportunity to continue fostering a culture of excellence, leading a team of passionate educators dedicated to innovative, high-quality instruction,” Fraser said in a news release.
“I am committed to unlocking the unique potential of advanced learners, creating an environment where they are understood, challenged, and encouraged to reach their fullest potential. At the same time, ensuring that all gifted students, including those from underrepresented groups, have access to meaningful and challenging learning experiences that prepare them for future success.”
Her undergraduate degree and a master’s degree in education administration were from Missouri State University. She also has a master’s degree in gifted education from Drury University and a doctorate in education leadership from Southwest Baptist University.
Mary Edgerton, assistant principal with the Launch Missouri Workforce program, has been named the next director of college and career readiness for the district.
She has worked as a middle school Project Lead the Way teacher, a high school business teacher and FBLA adviser, GO CAPS facilitator and Launch business teacher during her time with the district.
She spent eight years in the private sector, working in finance and information, before going into education.
“With 25 years of experience in career and technical education and choice programs, Mary is uniquely positioned to lead the work of the college and career readiness department,” said Ben Hackenwerth, chief innovation and strategy officer, in a release.
“She’s passionate about students gaining the skills, knowledge, and real-world experiences necessary to thrive in post-secondary education and the workforce.”
Edgerton completed her undergraduate work in business administration and finance at Missouri State University and earned a master’s in business administration from Webster University. In 2023, she obtained an educational specialist degree in educational leadership from Lindenwood University.
“I am excited to step into this role and continue building on the great work already happening across our district. My focus will be on growing existing programs and creating new opportunities so every student can graduate with a clear plan for their future,” Edgerton said in the release.
“I look forward to working with teachers, counselors, and community partners to ensure students have the support, skills, and real-world experiences they need to take that next step with confidence.”
Fraser and Edgerton will start the new roles July 1.