The Raymore-Peculiar School District Board of Education and Superintendent Dr. Mike Slagle are pleased to announce several leadership updates for the 2025-2026 school year. These changes reflect a combination of retirements, role adjustments, and continued investments to support the success of our schools.
District-Level Leadership Changes
Craig Dierking will serve as the Director of Assessment and Accountability, based at the Administrative Services Center. Dierking brings deep experience in data-informed decision-making to help elevate student outcomes across the district. (Read more)
Dr. John McKinney has been named the new Director of Student Services, a role focused on supporting students’ academic and behavioral well-being. His position and Dierking’s were made possible by reallocating existing roles, including a vacant assistant superintendent position and the former energy manager role. (Read more)
Kristi McNerlin will be the new Strategic Communications Officer, succeeding Michele Stidham, who is retiring at the end of this school year. McNerlin joins Ray-Pec from the Blue Valley School District, bringing a strong background in school communications and community engagement. (Read more)
Darlene Santiago-Dotson will serve as the new Director of Safety and Security. While this position was already part of the district’s budget, it had remained unfilled until now. She will lead efforts to enhance safety protocols and ensure a secure learning environment for all students and staff. (Read more)
Justin Smith has been hired as Assistant Director of Facilities and Construction Management, a role requested by the Board in response to the district’s growing number of buildings and square footage. This move ensures that our facilities remain well-maintained and ready to meet the needs of our students and staff. (Read more)
Dr. Al Voelker will assume the new title of Deputy Superintendent, reflecting his expanded leadership responsibilities, including oversight of the district’s daily operations.
New Leaders Already On Board
Adam Schwartz joined the district this spring as the Transportation Coordinator. This role, funded within our existing transportation contract, is dedicated to improving transportation logistics and enhancing service quality in collaboration with First Student, families, and schools. (Read more)
Lindsey Morgan, the new Director of Child Nutrition, was hired in May to replace Katlyn Lanoue, who accepted a leadership position in another district. Lindsey brings a strong background in food service and a passion for student wellness. (Read more)
School-Level Leadership Updates
Bailey Finau will be the next Principal of Raymore Elementary, following the retirement of Jennika Miller. Finau brings a strong instructional background and a commitment to fostering a supportive school culture. (Read more)
Dr. Katie Kensinger has been named Assistant Principal at Ray-Pec High School, succeeding Dr. Jeanne Kuhlman, who is retiring after a distinguished career. (Read more)
Jerald VanRheen will serve as the new District Activities and Athletics Director, replacing Dr. Kristina Martin, who is retiring. VanRheen brings years of experience in student activities and a passion for providing meaningful extracurricular opportunities. (Read more)
Brett Barbarick will be the first Assistant Director of Activities and Athletics, a newly created role approved by the Board of Education to provide additional support to our growing athletics and activities programs. (Read more)
We are grateful to the leaders who are retiring for their many years of service and leadership. At the same time, we are excited to welcome these new and transitioning team members into their roles. Together, they represent a forward-thinking team ready to support our mission: to prepare each student for a successful and meaningful life.