Karla Eslinger, the seventh Commissioner of Education in the history of Missouri, has a resume that speaks volumes about her qualifications for the job. Her journey in education began in a small classroom in Theodosia, where she taught first and second graders. From there, she moved on to become a principal and superintendent in Ava and West Plains, gaining valuable experience in school leadership.
Eslinger’s career in education also took her to the university level, where she prepared future school leaders. She then worked at the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education before taking on a federal-level education role that involved collaborating with districts in major cities like Boston, Houston, and Los Angeles. Her diverse experiences have equipped her with a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in education.
Transitioning from her role as a state senator, Eslinger stepped into the position of Commissioner of Education at a crucial time for Missouri’s education system. She faces significant challenges, including a teacher shortage exacerbated by high turnover rates and a lack of applicants for critical positions in school districts. Despite these obstacles, Eslinger remains optimistic and determined to make a positive impact.
One of Eslinger’s key priorities as Commissioner is to focus on improving reading and literacy skills among students in Missouri. She is committed to ensuring that all students can read at grade level, recognizing the importance of literacy in academic success. By addressing literacy challenges and supporting educators, Eslinger believes that Missouri can make significant strides in improving student achievement.
In the midst of her new role, Eslinger is also prepared to navigate potential political challenges, particularly from former colleagues advocating for more school choice and changes in state funding for education. She emphasizes the critical role that the state education department plays in providing essential support services to schools and educators, highlighting the importance of collaboration and communication in addressing complex issues in education.
Eslinger’s dedication to education is deeply rooted in her family, as she comes from a lineage of educators. With her husband and children all involved in the field of education, she understands the multifaceted nature of the profession and the importance of creating a supportive and nurturing environment for both teachers and students. As she embarks on her journey as Commissioner of Education, Eslinger plans to be actively involved in schools across Missouri, engaging with educators and students to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges they face.
Overall, Karla Eslinger’s wealth of experience, passion for education, and commitment to student success position her as a strong and capable leader for Missouri’s education system. As she navigates the complexities of her new role, she remains focused on listening, learning, and collaborating to drive positive change in education across the state.
