Carthage R-9 Board of Education Appoints Jason Vance as Principal of Steadley Elementary.

CARTHAGE, MO – The Carthage R-9 Board of Education is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Jason Vance as the new Principal of Steadley Elementary School. Mr. Vance will assume this role following the retirement of Dr. Lisa Northup, effective July 1, 2026.

Mr. Vance is a respected instructional leader with a diverse background in public education. Most recently, he has served for the past two years as Assistant Principal of both Steadley Elementary and Columbian Elementary Schools. Prior to that role, he served as the Instructional Coach at Columbian Elementary, supporting teachers and students through instructional growth and collaboration.

Mr. Vance began his career in the Carthage R-9 School District as an EL Teacher at Steadley Elementary, making this appointment a meaningful continuation of his work within the Steadley community. His professional experience also includes serving as an Elementary Teacher, 7th-grade Teacher, Special Education Teacher, Elementary EL Teacher, and District EL Coach. He earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Southwest Baptist University in 2006 and a Master’s Degree from SBU in 2008. Mr. Vance completed his Specialist’s Degree from Northwest Missouri State University in 2024.

“I am humbled, honored, and grateful for this opportunity to serve as Principal at Steadley,” said Mr. Vance. “I am excited to continue to work even more closely alongside the amazing Steadley teachers, students, and families.”

“Jason is a proven instructional leader who builds strong connections and is fully invested in student and staff success,” said Carthage Superintendent, Dr. Luke Boyer. “His experience, passion for learning, and dedication to Carthage make him an excellent choice to lead Steadley Elementary.”

The Carthage R-9 School District extends its sincere appreciation to Dr. Lisa Northup for her leadership at Steadley Elementary and wishes her the very best in her well-earned retirement.

Please join us in congratulating Mr. Jason Vance on his appointment as Principal of Steadley Elementary School.