Superintendent

It is an honor to be selected as Superintendent of the Shawnee Mission School District (SMSD). I am honored and excited to embark on this journey of educational leadership and community collaboration.

SMSD is a shining example of the unlimited possibilities that exist when great people work together to serve the needs of students. With a steadfast commitment to excellence, equity, and innovation, I am eager to work alongside dedicated educators, supportive parents, and engaged students to ensure that every learner thrives in our diverse and dynamic learning community.

At the heart of our mission lies a deep dedication to providing a world-class education which prepares our students for success in an ever-evolving global society. As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, it is imperative that we equip our students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. This means fostering a culture of critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and communication, while also instilling in our students a sense of empathy, resilience, and adaptability.

Central to our vision is a commitment to belonging: Every student, every employee and every stakeholder holds an instrumental place in our learning community. Therefore, it is imperative that we ensure a sense of belonging and foster that commitment through our actions and policies. We recognize that every person brings a unique set of strengths, experiences and challenges and it’s our responsibility to ensure that all students have access to what they need to succeed. By embracing diversity in all its forms and fostering a culture of belonging and respect, we will continue to create an environment where every student feels valued, empowered and inspired to reach their full potential.

My own personal journey shows how incredible Shawnee Mission is. I began my career teaching science and coaching athletics in 1998. From the outside looking in, I always admired the work that the SMSD was doing and desired to somehow become a part of this community.

While completing my doctorate, my field experience was in the Shawnee Mission School District. To me, the SMSD was IT! I never dreamed that I would be given the honor to serve as this district’s superintendent. I promise the SMSD community that I will not let you down and I will work tirelessly every day to meet our strategic goals and serve our community. I will work and fight for what our students need to succeed in the classroom, and to ensure that our community has the finest public school system in the state, the region, and the country.

Together, we have an incredible opportunity to shape the future of education and make a positive difference in the lives of students and the community. With passion, perseverance, and a shared commitment to excellence, I am confident that we can achieve our Strategic Plan goals and ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed, thrive, and pursue their dreams. I look forward to working together to build a brighter future for all.

Dr. Michael Schumacher
Superintendent