West Plains School District Board of Education President Named a 2022 MASA Friends of Education Award Recipient

West Plains School District Board of Education President Jim Thompson was among a group of individuals named a Missouri Association of School Administrators (MASA) Friends of Education Award recipient. The Friend of Education Award is presented annually to recognize eight non-educators, one from each of the eight MASA Regions. The award recognizes Thompson for his contribution to education locally. Thompson received the award at the annual MASA awards banquet at the Lake of the Ozarks on Wednesday, March 23, 2022.

Thompson has spent nearly half his life serving the West Plains School District Board of Education. When Thompson was first elected to the board in 1987. He wanted adequate facilities for students. He was part of a grassroots effort to build a new elementary school to replace the district's aging buildings. He then realized the importance a quality educational system played in the growth and overall well-being of a community. Quality facilities still play a significant role in the educational process, but the scope of his role as a board member has expanded considerably. Thompson focuses on providing the best possible education for kids by ensuring the best administrators and staff are employed in the district so students can be well-rounded, involved, productive citizens.

"We thank Mr. Thompson for his selfless volunteerism and commitment to our students, schools, and community. We appreciate the work of all of our board members and the hours they give to ensure our students have every opportunity for success", says Dr. Lori Wilson, Superintendent of Schools.