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October 19, 2026

Moving Forward Together: KCKPS Announces Key Leadership Changes

A graphic reading "KCKPS Announces Key Leadership Changes; 10/19/2026" with headshots of three women.

Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools (KCKPS) is pleased to announce several leadership changes that reflect the district’s continued commitment to excellence, innovation, and student success. 

Effective October 19, 2026, the following changes will take place within KCKPS:

 

Sumner Academy of Arts & Science

Gloria Willis Middle School principal Dr. Samia Guess will take on the position of Interim Principal at Sumner Academy of Arts & Science. 

Dr. Guess has served in her current leadership role at Gloria Willis for nearly a decade, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to the success of both her students and staff. Prior to serving as principal of Gloria Willis Middle School, she served as principal of Eisenhower Middle School for five years. She began her career in education in 1997 as an English teacher at F. L. Schlagle High School.

 

Gloria Willis Middle School

Emerson Elementary School principal Camiece Bivens will be continuing her service to the district as Interim Principal at Gloria Willis Middle School.

Principal Bivens has been serving Emerson Elementary School for two months. But in that short amount of time, she has proven to be a dedicated leader and committed educator. Prior to joining Emerson Elementary School, Ms. Bivens served as the Assistant Principal at Gloria Willis Middle School from 2021 to 2026. She also served as the Dean of Students at Gloria Willis from 2020 to 2021. 

 

Emerson Elementary School

Dr. Kristi Meyer will take on the role of Interim Principal at Emerson Elementary School.

Dr. Meyer’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Emerson Elementary as she steps into this leadership role. She looks forward to building relationships with the school community and learning more about its history and culture. “I am most looking forward to meeting the students, staff and families and getting to know the history and culture of the school and community,” said Dr. Meyer.

She has served as assistant principal at West Park Elementary School for more than a year. Previously, she served as assistant principal at Douglass Elementary School in 2024 and as assistant principal intern at Bethel Early Childhood Center from 2023 to 2024.

These changes represent an exciting step forward as KCKPS continues to strengthen its leadership team and advance its mission of providing high-quality educational opportunities for all students.