Leadership
Superintendent David Buck
Dr. David Buck has served as superintendent for the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District since July 1, 2020.
Dr. Buck started his tenure in Lee’s Summit R-7 Schools after serving as superintendent of the Wright City R-II School District near St. Louis. Dr. Buck joined the district near St. Louis in 2008 to serve as assistant superintendent before becoming superintendent in 2015.
A student of science, Dr. Buck worked as a forestry research technician and field botanist prior to beginning a 26-year career in public education. However, his love of science and passion for engaging with people propelled him into public education. He started in education as a science teacher in the Fatima School District and then worked as a high school principal.
Outside of the classroom, Dr. Buck has devoted time to programs that help prepare the next generation for success. He worked as a gifted education teacher and a coordinator for the Missouri Scholars Academy. He has also served as a facilitator for the Leadership Academy through the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. He has served as a three-sport coach as well as a sponsor of an elementary chess club, MS Destination Imagination team and an FFA coach.
He has received the Standing Ovation Award from the Missouri Scholars Academy and was a finalist for Missouri Coach of the Year.
Dr. Buck is the third Missourian to complete the National Superintendent Certification from the American Association of School Administrators. He also has participated in Yale University’s Emotional Intelligence RULER Certification. He received his bachelor’s degree in secondary education from Southeast Missouri State University; he received his master’s degree in education, educational specialist degree and superintendent certification from the University of Missouri; and he received his doctorate in education from Missouri Baptist University.
Superintendent’s Leadership Team
Dr. Christiana Barger
Associate Superintendent of Academic Services
Dr. Steve Shelton
Associate Superintendent of Operational Services
Dr. David Carlson
Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources
Nathan Holder
Assistant Superintendent of Business Services
Dr. Heather Kenney
Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education
Dr. Brett Potts
Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education
Shelly Sanders
Assistant Superintendent of Equity and Student Services
Katy Bergen
Executive Director of Public Relations
Dr. Kevin Whaley
Executive Director of Technology
Administration
Dr. Marlene DeVilbiss
Executive Director of Human Resources
Dr. Eric Flack
Executive Director of Curriculum
Dr. Staci Mathes
Executive Director of Special Services
Ron Alexander
District Athletic Director
Shannan Booth
Director of Career Education
Dawn Butler
Director of Before & After School Services YMCA
Dr. Jesi Cygan
Director of Student Support
Lori Danella
Director of Nutrition Services
Kyle Gorrell
Director of Facilities
Dr. Melanie Hutchinson
Director of Instructional Technology Services/Secondary Online
Dr. Lisa Janeway
Director of Professional Development
Bruce Maples
Director of Transportation
Dan Mullen
Director of Data Systems
Chrissy Symes
Director of the Lee’s Summit Educational Foundation
Dr. Tressa Wright
Director of Assessment