Kansas City, Mo., Public Schools (KCPS) Deputy Superintendent Marla Sheppard has resigned from her position.

Last night at the June Board of Directors business meeting, school leadership shared a new organizational update. The Board accepted Sheppard’s resignation.

Beginning July 1, 2021, Jennifer Collier will move to the Deputy Superintendent position. Collier has served in KCPS for 21 years and has assumed various roles during that time, including teacher, assistant principal, principal, Director of Human Resources, Chief Human Resources Officer and Chief of Staff.

Collier has also served on Cabinet for 5 years under the leadership and guidance of KCPS Superintendent Mark Bedell.

According to KCPS, Collier is looking forward to leveraging the talent, genius and unlimited potential that lies within both the students and staff in KCPS as they continue our journey toward full accreditation.

“Dr. Collier brings career experience within KCPS and a dedication to serving our staff, students and families to her new role as Deputy Superintendent,” the district’s announcement read. “We welcome Dr. Collier to her new position!”

Additionally, the Department of Communications and Engagement announced the hire of Elle Moxley as Public Relations Coordinator. Moxley joins KCPS from KCUR, Kansas City’s local National Public Radio affiliate, where she most recently served as the education reporter covering educational stories across the city and region.

“She brings 13 years of experience as a journalist and a passion for sharing the stories of educators, families and students in the Kansas City area,” the districts announcement read. “We are thrilled to welcome Ms. Moxley to Team KCPS. She will join us on July 1.”