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Branson Public Schools To Undergo Leadership Change

Branson Public Schools

Branson Public Schools’ Superintendent Doug Hayter is stepping down after leading the district for 13 years.

With the start of the New Year, Dr. Hayter will become executive director of the Missouri Association of School Administrators, located in Jefferson City. Hayter says the position continues to allow him the opportunity to promote public education in the state.

“It will be working with professional development with superintendents in districts across the state, Working with our annual conferences, mentoring superintendents, and really just working on a statewide level with all types of legislation and other professional development and management activities” Says Hayter.

His retirement will go into effect December 31.

According to Hayter, enrollment at Branson has grown approximately 40 percent during his tenure. He also notes the passage of two major bond issues in 2005 and 2011 that have accounted for a combined $60 million in completed improvement projects.

Future Superintendent Brad Swofford

Hayter’s replacement was also announced Tuesday; Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Services Brad Swofford. Dr. Swofford has served as assistant superintendent since 2009 and been with the district for 20 years.

“I think one of our jobs as leaders is to prepare others for their career goals, and certainly that’s one of Doctor Swofford’s, so I am very confident in his abilities. He will do an outstanding job, and were leaving the district in good hands, so my congratulations to him in his upcoming superintendency,” Hayter says.

Swofford has served as a high school teacher, coach, and junior high principal for Branson Public Schools. He earned his graduate and undergraduates degrees from Southwest Missouri State University and his doctorate in education from the University of Arkansas Fayetteville.