One new position is being added as the Branson School District continues to revise the administration team for next school year.

The release below is from the district:

Branson Public Schools will add a new administrative position for the 2025-2026 school year: Director of Human Resources. This new role will focus on developing top-tier educational professionals, overseeing and coordinating recruitment and hiring processes, and providing strategic guidance in developing programs that enhance the district’s educational environment.

Dr. April Hawkins has been appointed as Director of Human Resources. Hawkins joined the district in 2016 and currently serves as principal of Buchanan Elementary. Prior to joining Branson Schools, Hawkins served as a principal in the Nixa and Kirbyville School Districts. In 2022 she was named the Southwest Region Distinguished Principal by the Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals. 

“I am honored and excited to take on this new position,” said Dr. Hawkins. “Branson Public Schools has always been a place of opportunity and growth for students, staff, and families, and I look forward to working with our team to ensure we continue to foster an environment where
everyone can succeed at high levels and thrive to the next!”

Hawkins received her Bachelor’s degree from College of the Ozarks, a Master’s degree from Missouri State University, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis from the University of Missouri - Columbia. She and her husband Jeff have three children.

“We are thrilled to have Dr. Hawkins transition into this critical role,” said Superintendent Dr. Brad Swofford. “Her commitment to excellence, along with her deep understanding of the district’s culture and values, will help us continue to attract and retain talented educators,
support staff, and leaders to serve our students.” 

In addition, Austin Kendrick has been named a new Assistant Principal for Branson High School. He replaces Dr. Sara Strohm, who will step into the role of Branson High School Principal for the 2025-2026 school year. Kendrick is currently a Physical Education teacher and Head Basketball Coach for the Reeds Spring School District. 

Kendrick’s educational background prior to joining Reeds includes teaching for Springfield Public Schools and coaching basketball and baseball for Parkview. He earned a Bachelor’s degree from Missouri State University, a Master’s from William Woods University, and a Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Arkansas State University. He and his wife Jessica have two daughters and one son. 

“I’ve spent my career working to empower young people, both on and off the court, and I look forward to continuing that work with the team at Branson High School. My family and I are grateful for the opportunity to serve the Branson community.” 

Kendrick will serve alongside BHS assistant principals, Dr. Nathan Carter and Byron Richardson. As previously announced earlier this school year, other administration updates for 2025-2026 include:

● Dr. Nate Moore will succeed Superintendent Dr. Brad Swofford, who is retiring after serving the Branson School District for the past 30 years
● Dr. Jack Harris will replace Dr. Nate Moore as Assistant Superintendent of Business Services
● Dr. Tara Roberts will succeed Executive Director of Instructional Services Dr. Mike Dawson, who is retiring after 30 years in public education
● Dr. Kara Swofford will replace Carol Furman as Cedar Ridge Primary Principal
● John-Paul Williams has been named Assistant Principal for Cedar Ridge Intermediate  

All administrators will begin their new duties July 1, 2025.