Kirksville R-III Schools has announced the retirement of Superintendent Robert Webb, effective June 30, 2025.
Webb is currently in his sixth school year serving as Superintendent of Kirksville Schools. Since arriving in the summer of 2019, he has guided the district through the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and initiated changes to the district's health plans for employees, resulting in substantial savings for the community. He led the district through the transition to Missouri’s School Improvement Plan (MSIP 6), which sets district-wide goals for improvement each year. He also oversaw the early stages of facilities planning, including preparation for the recent school bond initiative that will bring a performing arts center and updated facilities with enhanced safety to the district.
Webb began his teaching career In Minnesota and Bunceton, Missouri. Over the years, he has taught physical education, social studies, Spanish, and yearbook, before spending 12 years as a building principal at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. He has served as superintendent for 16 years in three different districts: a Navajo reservation in Sanders, Arizona; Monte Vista, Colorado; and Kirksville. In a letter to the school board, Webb shared that he has long intended to 'end my professional career where it began, as a teacher.' He plans to return to teaching in some capacity. He and his wife, Jackie, have five children and 13 grandchildren.
Kirksville R-III Board of Education members have expressed their gratitude for Webb’s contributions to the district. Vice President Nan Davis noted that the district has faced challenges and successes during Webb's tenure, from the uncharted territory of the pandemic to his recognition as a statewide leader in school improvement planning. President Jeremy Houser thanked Webb for leaving behind a 'legacy of positive change' in Kirksville.