Finalists identified for SPS interim superintendent

Springfield Public Schools (SPS) has selected three finalists to participate in the final phase of the District's interim superintendent search process. The finalists will participate in a series of interviews with multiple stakeholder groups and the board on June 9.
 
The Board of Directors and search consultants reviewed a pool of 16 initial applicants and identified six candidates who were screened on May 27. After screening interviews, the board has selected the following three finalists based on their leadership experience, commitment to student success, and ability to lead SPS during this transitional period.
 

Shawn Stover, Ed.D.
Shawn Stover currently serves as superintendent of Rockingham County Schools in North Carolina and brings more than 30 years of educational leadership experience. Prior to his current role, he served as Chief of Secondary Schools for the District of Columbia Public Schools, Superintendent of Uplift Education Charter Schools in Texas, and as a principal and assistant principal in multiple school systems. During his career, Stover has led significant gains in student achievement, college and career readiness, Advanced Placement success, and workforce development programs. His accomplishments include securing major facility and infrastructure grants, expanding college and career pathways, increasing student credential attainment, and leading nationally recognized schools and districts. He holds a doctorate in Leadership and Organizational Innovation from Marymount University, a master's degree in School Administration from East Carolina University, and superintendent certifications in North Carolina and Virginia.

Dr. Kimberlee Pelster
Dr. Kimberlee Pelster currently serves as principal of Thurston High School. Since assuming the principalship in 2022, she has led significant improvements in graduation rates, attendance, student engagement, and support for historically underserved student groups. Under her leadership, Thurston High School achieved a record 90% graduation rate and earned recognition from the Oregon Department of Education and Cognia for its work in student voice and continuous improvement. Prior to joining SPS, Pelster served as a Director with Teach For America in Chicago, supporting and developing more than 90 teachers across 49 schools, and worked in Eugene School District 4J supporting special education services and system improvement initiatives. She holds a master's degree in Educational Leadership and Policy from the University of Oregon and completed her doctorate in educational leadership in spring 2026.


Michael Carter
Michael Carter currently serves as Superintendent of Lake County School District 7 in Oregon and has more than 40 years of experience in education, including more than 24 years as a superintendent. Throughout his career, he has served as a superintendent, high school principal, middle school principal, elementary principal, assistant principal, university professor, and educational mentor. Carter also serves as Executive Director of the Oregon Small Schools Association, where he supports leadership development, advocacy, and collaboration among Oregon school districts. He holds an Education Specialist degree from Lewis & Clark College, a master's degree in Educational Administration from UCLA, and has been recognized as Oregon Small Schools Association Administrator of the Year and recipient of the COSA Bev Gladder Mentor Award. His leadership experience includes strategic planning, school finance, facilities management, board relations, and community partnerships.

Finalists will participate in a series of interviews with stakeholder groups representing staff, parents, community members, and district leadership. Feedback from interview teams will be shared with the board as part of the final decision-making process.
 
SPS appreciates the participation of community members, staff, students, and stakeholders who have contributed feedback throughout the search process.