Leadership Team
Dr. Lance Stout
Deputy Superintendent
Deputy Superintendent Lance Stout is proud to be a member of the ISD team and truly enjoys coming to work every day. He became deputy superintendent in Independence in 2013, but brought with him a wealth of educational experience. Dr. Stout spent 21 years in the Liberal School District- he taught science and later became a principal, deputy superintendent and superintendent. In the ISD, he works closely with a variety of departments including transportation, nutrition services, technology and athletics. He and his wife Jill have three sons. Dr. Stout enjoys spending time with his family, camping and riding his motorcycle. He also appreciates working with the wonderful people in the ISD and is proud to be part of the team.
Dr. Cindy Grant
Deputy Superintendent
Cindy Grant joined the ISD in 1997 as an elementary teacher. Dr. Grant taught at Glendale Elementary for six years and later served as principal at Randall Elementary for six years. She also served as a Mentor Teacher for the ISD through the University of Missouri Columbia’s Fellowship Program and became Director of Human Resources in 2012. Dr. Grant attended Missouri Southern State University and Rockhurst University where she graduated with a degree in Elementary Education. She earned her master’s degree from Webster University in curriculum and instruction, her educational specialist degree in school superintendency from William Woods University and her doctorate in educational leadership and policy analysis from the University of Missouri, Columbia. Dr. Grant is honored to be part of a school district focused on providing the best educational experience for all.
Dr. Randy Maglinger
Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Education
Dr. Randy Maglinger continues to advance the ISD Academies as the Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Education. Maglinger is a proud product of the ISD, graduating from William Chrisman High School. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of Missouri, his Master of Education from Baker University, his Educational Specialists degree from UCM and his Doctorate at William Woods University. Dr. Maglinger started his teaching and administration career at Truman High School before working in administration at William Chrisman and as principal at Van Horn. He works closely with administrators, staff and teachers to maintain a focus on rigor and relevance as well as college and career readiness for all students.
Leslie Hochsprung
Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Education
Leslie Hochsprung joined the ISD in 2008 as an elementary principal with 16 years of experience in education. After proudly serving as principal at Thomas Hart Benton Elementary for 13 years, Leslie now oversees instruction in the district’s 20 elementary schools as Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Education. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood and Elementary Instruction, Master of Curriculum and Instruction, Education Specialist in Educational Leadership for Elementary School Principals and Superintendent Certification from the University of Central Missouri. Leslie says she is proud to serve alongside dedicated educators committed to student success.
Dr. Pam Boatright
Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction
Dr. Pam Boatright started her career in the ISD more than two decades ago as a math teacher, coach and administrator at Truman High School. She taught for 10 years before becoming an assistant principal and then taking over as the head principal five years ago. Dr. Boatright completed her undergraduate degree from Rockhurst University, her Masters in Educational Technology from Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, a Specialists Degree in Secondary Administration from Northwest Missouri State University and her Doctorate from St. Louis University in Educational Leadership.
Dean Katt
Director of Human Resources
Dean Katt has been in education for more than 30 years, serving as a teacher and a high school principal before becoming superintendent in Scott City, Ottawa and Hays, Kansas.
“It was very apparent from the first time I visited the ISD that the focus was on students and providing them with educational opportunities assuring their success,” Katt said. “The feeling of family was obvious. It’s evident the district values its employees and has high expectations of them.”
Katt’s wife Ronda is a retired elementary school teacher. They have three grown children and four grandchildren. Katt earned his bachelor’s and master’s degree and his superintendent certification from Fort Hays State University and is an active member of several volunteer organizations.
Dr. Tony Robinson
Director of Human Resources
Dr. Tony Robinson began his career in education as a history teacher more than 26 years ago, most recently serving as superintendent for the Sikeston R-6 School District. Dr. Robinson earned his undergraduate degree from Evangel University, a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Northwest Missouri State University, and a doctorate degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Phoenix. He and his wife of 27 years have three children. Dr. Robinson served on the Missouri College and Career Attainment Network (MOCAN), SEMO Foodbank Board, and various other civic and nonprofit organizations.