The Missouri State Board Association has a new representative for the K-8 schools; Shell Knob resident Leah Denton. Recently, Leah took some time to answer some questions and explained what this new role means to the Shell Knob School District.
How did this come about? Walk us through the process.
The immediate past president of MSBA reached out to me once the role opened up and asked if I was interested in serving on the board. From there, I was nominated by the Shell Knob School Board and then appointed at the MSBA reorganization meeting in June. I will serve a 2- year term which will be June 2025-June 2027.
What is MSBA?
The Missouri School Boards Association (MSBA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and guiding school boards in their mission to ensure student success across the state. MSBA offers a wide range of training opportunities, including new board member orientation, board president meetings, and sessions on financial oversight, effective governance, and productive collaboration with superintendents.
Throughout the year, MSBA hosts multiple events designed to foster learning and networking among school board members statewide. The organization also provides access to a legal team as a resource for member districts and maintains an advocacy team that works closely with legislators at the Capitol to represent the interests of Missouri’s public schools.
MSBA’s governance includes a 25-member Board of Directors, composed of representatives from MSBA’s 17 regions, four officers, and four additional representatives from Springfield, Kansas City, St. Louis, and the K-8 districts. Currently, 41 K-8 districts across Missouri are members of MSBA.
What will your responsibility be?
As a member of the Missouri School Boards Association (MSBA) Board of Directors, I will represent the interests and perspectives of Missouri’s K-8 districts at the state level. In this role, I will help shape policy and strategic direction for the organization, advocate on behalf of public education, and support efforts that strengthen school board governance statewide. I will also collaborate with fellow board members from across the state to ensure MSBA continues to provide valuable training, resources, and legislative advocacy for local school boards. My goal is to be a strong voice for K-8 districts and contribute to MSBA’s mission of promoting student success through effective school board leadership.
What do you bring to the table?
I bring a strong combination of leadership experience, strategic insight, and a deep commitment to public education. Now in my third year serving on the school board and currently in the role of Vice President, I’ve gained firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities facing our district.
In my previous role with a national association based in Washington, D.C., I led leadership education programs and successfully launched an executive leadership initiative. I also worked to educate and engage members on the intricacies of navigating non-partisan progress within a politically complex environment. That experience sharpened my ability to advocate effectively, collaborate across diverse perspectives, and stay focused on solutions that serve the greater good. My goal is to bring that same steady, student-centered leadership to everything I do on behalf of our district.
Why get involved in this area of the education world?
I care deeply about my community—I grew up here, went to school here, and have deep roots in this district. I’ve seen firsthand how the success of a school directly impacts the success and vitality of the entire community. When our schools thrive—when students are supported, teachers are empowered, and leadership is strong—our community grows stronger too. That belief is what inspired me to serve on the school board, and it continues to guide my work. Now, through my role with MSBA, I have the opportunity to bring that same passion and perspective to a statewide level—advocating for policies and practices that support public education across Missouri.
How long have you served on the SKS board?
I began my third year on the school board in April, and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon! There’s always more to learn, and I find myself gaining new insights into board policy and our district with each meeting. It’s a continuous learning experience, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to keep growing in this role.
What do you hope to see for the future K-8?
I hope to see K-8 districts continue to be recognized and supported for the vital role they play in Missouri’s public education system. These schools often serve as the heart of their communities, and I’d love to see increased access to resources, professional development, and advocacy tailored to their unique needs. I want K-8 districts to feel empowered—not overlooked—when it comes to policy decisions, funding, and innovation. Ultimately, I hope the future brings stronger connections between districts, more opportunities for collaboration, and continued growth that keeps students at the center of every decision.
What is the most pressing/important issue you want to tackle?
One of the most pressing issues I want to address is how decisions made at the state level impact school funding—especially for rural K-8 districts. When the state imposes new requirements without providing the necessary funding, it puts local schools in a tough position. Rural communities, in particular, often lack the financial capacity to absorb these costs without cutting essential programs or staff. I believe the state has a responsibility to ensure that legislation is paired with practical, sustainable funding solutions. We need a balanced approach—one that respects local control, protects taxpayer dollars, and avoids pushing unfunded mandates onto schools that are already operating on tight budgets.
Principal Ethan Farr had this reaction to Leah's new appointment:
"When it comes to the essence of community in small rural towns, Shell Knob shines above the rest. Our community has always been incredibly supportive of Shell Knob School, and it takes that intentional support to make a rural school as exceptional as ours.
When I say we have the best teachers, staff, and students, I mean it! Our School Board is no exception. This dedicated group of elected members consistently strives for the best for our students.
Recently, one of our School Board Members, Leah Denton, was appointed to the Missouri School Boards’ Association Board of Directors to represent K–8 school districts across the state.
Why is this important? Leah is deeply committed to our community and passionate about the education of our students. She—along with all of our board members—works tirelessly to ensure every student in Shell Knob has the opportunity to succeed. Her additional role not only honors her dedication but also provides our school with valuable insight, collaboration opportunities, and timely knowledge to keep Shell Knob School at the forefront of educational leadership and progress.
We are incredibly proud of Leah and excited for the impact her service will have on our school and students.
From all of us at Shell Knob School District—Congratulations, Leah!"