Springfield Public Schools names new chief human resources officer

(From Springfield Public Schools)

Springfield Public Schools has selected Penney Rector as the new chief human resources officer to lead the district's talent attraction, development, retention, engagement, and compensation and benefits initiatives. Rector has worked as assistant to the superintendent for human resources and legal counsel for Jefferson City School District since 2011.

Her previous experience includes working from 2002 to 2011 as director of legal services and governmental relations for Missouri Council of School Administrators, Missouri Association of School Administrators, Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals and Missouri Council of School Administrators Outreach. From 1993 to 2002, Rector was an assistant attorney general for the Office of the Missouri Attorney General.

“Ms. Rector possesses a unique skill set that will benefit SPS and our employees,” said Superintendent John Jungmann. “As a lawyer and human resources professional, she has expertise that will help us continue to improve in our efforts to attract, develop and retain the best and brightest employees to serve our students.”

Dr. Jungmann cited her leadership in establishing Jefferson City School District’s human resources department, efforts to automate systems and services, and success in developing and implementing an effective teacher evaluation system as examples of Rector’s commitment to excellence.

“Being a product of public schools and having had tremendous opportunities as a result, I consider it a great privilege to join the SPS team, and I look forward to working with all members of the team to meet the needs of our students,” Rector said.

She and her family will be relocating to Springfield this summer. Her official first day will be July 1, but she will spend some time at SPS in June to work with Lisa Turner to ensure a smooth transition. Rector is replacing Turner, who is returning to Florida where she lived and worked prior to joining SPS.

“On a personal note, we have long hoped for an opportunity to make Springfield our home,” Rector said. “I grew up in northwest Arkansas and am truly blessed to be moving closer to my sisters and their families.”

During its May 9 executive session, the Springfield school board approved hiring Rector. Her 2017-2018 salary will be $140,000.