Jackson R-2 School District welcomes interim superintendent Dr. Keenan Kinder

JACKSON, Mo. (KBSI) – The Jackson R-2 School District has announced Tuesday, a changing of hands as Superintendent Scott Smith will retire June 30.

The Jackson R-2 School District has appointed Dr. Keenan Kinder as interim superintendent for the remainder of the 2024-2025 school year.

The district’s board of education made the announcement following a special executive session meeting.

The transition comes as Dr. Scott Smith steps into retirement, allowing community members to share their thoughts and hopes for the district’s future on the Now Local News app.

“I wish Dr. Smith well in his retirement. I’ve always thought Jackson was one of the best school districts in the area,” says citizen journalist @awesometaters.

Others, like @kate.appleman, looked ahead with questions about what’s next under Dr. Kinder’s leadership. “Some of the things I would like to see for the Jackson School District are increased activities that help students explore different careers, job shadowing, or internships to help them identify their future paths,” she shared.

While the community voiced a mix of curiosity and optimism, one common thought was clear: support for the new leadership and hope for the districts success.

“I wish good luck to Dr. Kinder taking the reins,” @awesometaters added.

He previously served as superintendent of the Leopold School District for seven years.

Kinder will take over all duties and responsibilities of the superintendent role in an interim capacity.

Dr. Kinder now prepares for his first year leading the Jackson School District, bringing experience, familiarity, and a renewed vision to the role.