(Below is a press release from the West Plains School District.)
West Plains, MO. –The West Plains R-VII School District announces the retirement of Superintendent Dr. Wesley Davis, effective June 30, 2027.
The Board of Education will employ a Deputy Superintendent for the 2026–2027 school year who will work alongside Dr. Davis to ensure a smooth and seamless transition of leadership.
Board of Education President Cindy Tyree emphasized the district’s commitment to continuity and stability, “Dr. Davis has demonstrated throughout his career a deep knowledge of school finance and educational leadership. Our priority is to support a smooth transition as he concludes his tenure. Dr. Davis will remain our superintendent until his retirement in 2027, and the Deputy Superintendent role will exist solely for the 2026–2027 school year.”
Dr. Davis has been a dedicated leader in the West Plains R-VII School District since 2015, when he was appointed middle school principal. After three years in that role, he moved to the central office before assuming the position of superintendent in 2022. Under his leadership, the district has advanced in numerous areas including financial responsibility, facility enhancements, improved security measures, and a strong emphasis on literacy. Prior to his service in West Plains, Dr. Davis spent twelve years in administration at Cabool, four years in administration with the Greenfield School District, and two years as a classroom teacher at Buffalo High School.
Reflecting on his upcoming retirement, Dr. Davis shared “I am beyond grateful for the opportunities this district has provided to me and my family—Stacy, Michael, Cody, Justin, and Brook. The support and encouragement of Zizzer Nation have been immeasurably meaningful to us. The adage, ‘Once a Zizzer… Always a Zizzer,’ resonates deeply within our family. While I did not have the privilege of graduating as a Zizzer myself, I take immense pride that my children Michael, Cody, Justin, and Serah were able to do so.”
President Tyree further reflected on Dr. Davis’ impact. “The Board of Education is profoundly thankful for Dr. Davis’ vision and dedication. His collaborative spirit and steady leadership have left a lasting mark on both the district and the community. Beyond his administrative expertise, Dr. Davis brought his family into the Zizzer tradition, which has been a tremendous gift to us all. While he will be greatly missed, we are grateful for the thoughtful transition he has provided, allowing the district to prepare and maintain stability as new leadership steps forward.”
The West Plains R-VII Board of Education formally accepted Dr. Davis’ resignation during its October 7, 2025 meeting. Dr. Davis will continue to serve as superintendent until his retirement on June 30, 2027.
