Springfield Public Schools has named two veteran administrators to lead Central High School in an interim capacity for the 2019-2020 school year. Judy Brunner will serve as interim lead principal and Stephen Seal will serve as interim principal, effective July 1. Each leader will work in a part-time capacity, working together to meet the needs of Central’s students, staff and community.
“We look forward to welcoming this dynamic leadership team to Central High School next year,” said Dr. Shane Dublin, executive director of secondary education for SPS. “Their expertise and willingness to serve on an interim basis enables us to continue the search for the next permanent leader. Our recruitment process is ongoing to ensure we find the best candidate for long-term service.”
Brunner and Seal both retired from SPS – each with 18 years of experience as administrators. Mrs. Brunner retired in 2006 as the principal of Parkview High School and Seal retired in 2003 as principal of Study Middle School. Brunner’s background also includes leadership as principal at Reed and Wilder, as assistant principal at Pershing, and as a special education teacher at Parkview.
In addition to serving 12 years as principal of Study and eight years as assistant director of Greenwood Laboratory School, Seal was also an assistant principal for both Central and Pleasant View, and a teacher and coach at Pershing.
Brunner has undergraduate degrees in sociology and education, as well as a master’s degree and a specialist degree in education – all from Missouri State University. Seal completed his undergraduate studies in education, as well as a master’s degree in guidance and counseling and a specialist degree in education – all from Missouri State University.
“It is an honor to return to Springfield Public Schools and work with the Central High School community,” said Brunner. “The traditions are strong, and I am excited to begin the next chapter at this historic school.”
“I’m absolutely thrilled to be returning to work at Central High School,” said Seal. “I spent my last 17 years in the Springfield Public Schools working in the Study, Central and Pipkin communities. It is my honor to join an award-winning faculty and school. I’m looking forward to supporting Central’s excellence in teaching and learning.”