New leadership is on the horizon for St. Joseph public Schools as Kristen Bawks prepares to assume the role of superintendent for the upcoming school year.
Bawks has spent the last 20 years in the district serving as a teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent. She says she’s honored and elated to begin her new role.
“I am honored, I’m eager to begin,” Bawks said. “Honored to serve the St. Joseph Public Schools community. I had the privilege of working with them for 20 years in the district, so to be able to lead in this capacity feels great.”
Bawks has a passion for teaching and felt leadership was her calling. From an early age, her parents inspired her to be a leader and that has now grown to taking on the role of superintendent.
In her new position, Bawks says she’ll continue to grow the district.
“Just continuing, again, continuing the great work that’s happening in our district, honoring our teachers’ expertise, honoring their dedication to our students, continuing our strong partnerships with our families and community members, doing what’s best for kids, all of those things, and working closely with the administrative team who are such amazing professionals who are such amazing professionals who work hard.”
Bawks will officially take over the superintendent role on August 1. With her background and mentorship from the school board and former Superintendent Jenny Fee, Bawks believes she will make decisions in the best interests of students and lead with integrity.
