The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) announces Dr. Kari Monsees as the new deputy commissioner of the Division of Financial and Administrative Services. He will assume this position on June 30, 2020, upon retiring as Superintendent of Schools at the Raymore-Peculiar School District. Dr. Roger Dorson, current deputy commissioner of the Division of Financial and Administrative Services, announced his retirement earlier this year. We are grateful that he has agreed to stay on in this position through June to allow for a smooth transition.

“With over 20 years of experience in Missouri public schools, Kari is well-respected across the state for his professionalism, his commitment to improving opportunities for students and his deep understanding of school finance and governance,” said Commissioner of Education Margie Vandeven. “We are thrilled that he has agreed to bring his expertise to DESE and continue serving Missouri students.”

Dr. Monsees previously served as Chief Financial Officer in the Wentzville School District. Prior to that, he held administrator positions in the Warrensburg School District and the Moniteau County R-I School District. He began his career as a teacher and athletic director in the Smithton R-VI School District.

Dr. Monsees earned his bachelor’s degree in secondary education, master’s degree in secondary school administration and educational specialist degree in school district administration from the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg. He earned his doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Missouri-Columbia.