Dr. Jamison’s track record of improving student outcomes, her focus on equity, and her commitment to engaging the community played as key factors in the decision.
The Hazelwood School District Board of Education has selected Dr. Bonita E. Jamison as its next superintendent, effective July 1, 2026, following a comprehensive search process supported by HYA. She will succeed Dr. Nettie Collins-Hart, who is retiring after a decade of dedicated service to the district.
Dr. Jamison brings more than 25 years of experience in public education and currently serves as Superintendent of the Maplewood Richmond Heights School District. Throughout her career, she has built a strong reputation for advancing student achievement, strengthening instructional systems, and fostering meaningful connections with the communities she serves.
Her leadership in Maplewood Richmond Heights has been marked by notable academic progress, including the district earning a 98.5% score on the Missouri School Improvement Program (MSIP 6) review, the highest among K–12 districts in the state. Her work has focused on improving outcomes for all students, expanding access to high-quality instruction, and ensuring alignment across curriculum and teaching practices.
Equally important has been her commitment to transparency and engagement. Through initiatives such as community roundtables, State of the District addresses, and informal opportunities to connect with families and staff, Dr. Jamison has cultivated trust and strengthened relationships across the school community.
The Hazelwood Board of Education emphasized these qualities throughout the search process. Board President Sylvester Taylor II shared the board’s confidence in the selection, noting Dr. Jamison’s track record of improving student outcomes, her focus on equity, and her commitment to engaging the community as key factors in the decision.
HYA partnered with the district to design and lead a search process grounded in stakeholder voice and thoughtful evaluation. Feedback gathered from staff, families, students, and community members helped define the leadership profile and ensure alignment between the district’s priorities and the final selection.
Dr. Jamison expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to serve Hazelwood, highlighting her eagerness to build relationships and continue the district’s progress. With a personal connection to the community as a parent of a Hazelwood graduate and former resident, she brings both professional expertise and a deep understanding of the district’s values. Her leadership approach, rooted in empathy, high expectations, and a commitment to student success, positions Hazelwood School District for continued growth and stability in the years ahead.
HYA Associate Gloria Davis lead this search along with associates Vahn Phayprasert, and Dr. Paul Tedesco. The team is honored to have supported Hazelwood School District throughout this process and congratulates Dr. Jamison and the Hazelwood community on this exciting new chapter.
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