Dr. Stephen Kleinsmith
Dr. Stephen Kleinsmith
A four-decade career championing students, empowering educators, and building community trust. From Omaha classrooms to 18 years as superintendent of Nixa Public Schools, Dr. Kleinsmith's legacy is one of innovation, transparency, and unwavering "kids first" focus.
Years in education
0+
From classroom teacher to statewide thought leader.
Leading Nixa
0 years
Transformed the district with innovation and trust.
Bond support
0 / 8 passed
~$71M for facilities, tech, and safety--every vote a "yes."
Years in education
0+
From classroom teacher to statewide thought leader.
Leading Nixa
0 years
Transformed the district with innovation and trust.
Bond support
0 / 8 passed
~$71M for facilities, tech, and safety--every vote a "yes."
Career Overview
A steady arc of leadership, growth, and service.
Classroom teacher and coach in Omaha, then principal roles at All Saints School (1984-1988) and Westwood Jr.-Sr. High in Sloan, Iowa.
The Odessa AmericanDirector of Secondary Education, Assistant Superintendent, and Executive Director for Administrative Affairs for Millard Public Schools in Omaha, sharpening district-wide leadership.
Guided Nixa through rapid growth, innovation, and statewide recognition, keeping the district student-centered and community-backed.
Director of School & Community Partnerships at Missouri State University, interim co-deputy superintendent for Springfield Public Schools (2019-20), and ongoing consultant/advocate for Missouri education.
Achievements as Superintendent
Innovation, trust, and growth—together.
Academic & Program Innovation
- Missouri's highest accreditation rating for 12 straight years; Nixa's leadership team earned eight "Program of Excellence" awards from the Missouri School Boards' Association.
- Opened the John Thomas School of Discovery as Missouri's first STEM-focused elementary magnet; grew preschool into an Exemplary Early Childhood Program.
- Launched the ConnectED 1:1 device initiative, making Nixa the first in its region to provide every student a laptop or tablet.
Community Engagement & Communication
- Eight consecutive bond issues approved by voters (~$71M) thanks to transparent, promise-keeping leadership.
- Created "Koffee with Kleinsmith" and forums to keep families informed; earned the national Leadership Through Communication Award with communications director Zac Rantz.
- Hosted joint city/school "State of the Community" meetings and served as chair of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce and Nixa Community Foundation.
District Growth & Facilities
- Enrollment nearly doubled (3,500 to 6,100+); delivered new high school, new intermediate school, two additional elementaries, and major additions to existing campuses.
- Built five FEMA-rated community safe rooms that also serve as instructional space.
- Recognized as "Developer of the Year" (2013) by the Springfield Contractors Association for effective, efficient school construction.
Student-Focused Leadership
- Known for a "kids first--no exceptions" ethos and willingness to make hard decisions for student benefit.
- Helped make Nixa a destination district for families, educators, and community partners.
Awards & Honors
Recognition that reflects team excellence.
Multiple state and national honors celebrate a leadership style rooted in transparency, community partnership, and student success.
Missouri Superintendent of the Year
2010 and 2017 (Robert L. Pearce Award; honored at AASA national conference).
Honorary Doctor of Public Affairs
Missouri State University, 2018; invited spring commencement speaker.
Leadership Through Communication Award
AASA + NSPRA national winner (2013) for exemplary transparency and community engagement.
The Missourian Award
2010 honoree for statewide civic and professional contributions.
Springfield Business Journal Honors
Men of the Year (2011) and Community Involvement Champion (2013).
Team Recognition
Early Childhood Program of the Year (2013, MSBA) and multiple Outstanding Board governance awards during his tenure.
Legacy & Ongoing Influence
Championing public education for Missouri and beyond.
Dr. Kleinsmith continues to advise state leaders, serve on national and legislative committees, and mentor districts. He was tapped by the Missouri governor for counsel on education reform, and he now connects K-12 systems with Missouri State University while remaining available for strategic guidance, speaking, and community partnership work.
Podcast: Career Highlights
A quick listen covering Dr. Kleinsmith's journey and leadership approach.