Schools Honor Graduates of Educational Leadership Program

A program that works with several Lakes Region School Districts in Educational Leadership Programs wraps up another year.

The full release on the Branson School District Graduates is below:

Branson Public Schools is proud to recognize 11 district employees who recently graduated from the Evangel University Educational Leadership Cohort program, earning their Master of Education in Educational Leadership.

The cohort is a collaborative partnership between Branson Public Schools, Hollister R-V School District, Reeds Spring School District and Evangel University designed to provide educators with a high-quality, locally accessible pathway to school leadership.  

Through the 30-hour graduate program, participants complete coursework over six semesters while learning from experienced district administrators across all three school districts. Classes are hosted in Branson, Hollister and Reeds Spring, giving educators the opportunity to gain diverse perspectives on instructional leadership, school law, organizational management,communication and school improvement. 

“We are so proud of our graduates,” said Dr. Tara Roberts, Executive Director of Instructional Services. “This partnership provides a meaningful, high-quality professional learning opportunity that strengthens our leadership pipeline and builds the capacity of future leaders across our 
district. We are excited to see the impact these educators will continue to make in Branson Public Schools.” 

Graduate Victoria Poor said the experience provided valuable opportunities for collaboration and professional growth. 

“I have been blessed with many opportunities to grow professionally throughout my career in Branson Public Schools, and the Educational Leadership Cohort has been incredibly meaningful,” Poor said. “Learning alongside peers and local district leaders in person created an 
experience that was far more impactful than learning behind a computer screen. I’m grateful for the district’s investment in teachers, future leaders and our community.”  

In addition to celebrating the cohort graduates, Branson Public Schools also recognizes Dr. Lydia Snavely, Special Education Process Coordinator for Buchanan Elementary and Buchanan Intermediate, who received the Thomas H. Langston Award for Excellence in Dissertation Research. Dr. Snavely was selected as the 2025 recipient for her dissertation focused on special education teacher self-efficacy and professional development coaching. 

“I am truly blessed to not only have had an incredible doctoral journey at Evangel, but also the opportunity to work and serve Branson Schools along the way,” Snavely said. “The support of my colleagues, family and dissertation team made it all possible.” 

Branson Public Schools congratulates the following graduates for their accomplishment and commitment to educational leadership:

Preston Carson 
Zachary Ford 
Rachel Giles 
Matthew Harmon 
Emma Hefley 
Jessica Hughes 
Chase Jackson 
Kristen Mills 
Chloe Myers 
Victoria Poor 
Peyton Shaw