DeShonda Payton

Transformational educational executive with over 27 years of experience driving district-aligned school improvement, fostering instructional coherence, and enhancing organizational effectiveness within urban systems. Proven track record in advancing student achievement, accelerating growth, and strengthening school culture while ensuring compliance with DESE and MSIP standards. Recognized for strategic vision, talent development, and cultivating cross-sector partnerships while leveraging data-driven decision-making to achieve measurable results. Experienced principal with superintendent certification, complemented by active state-level leadership appointments that underscore a commitment to educational excellence.

• Missouri Association of School Administrators (MASA), Aspiring Superintendent Cohort
• DESE Advisory Council, Gifted and Talented Education
• Howard University Aspiring Superintendents Academy

• District and school improvement planning (CSIP/MSIP)
• Instructional leadership and supervision
• Curriculum, assessment, and MTSS alignment
• Equity and gifted education advocacy
• Talent development and succession planning
• Budget, grants, and resource allocation
• Policy implementation and compliance
• School safety and crisis management
• Community, university, and agency partnerships
• Data governance and accountability systems

• Student Achievement & Growth
• Led sustained gains in Tier 1 instructional effectiveness through aligned curriculum, assessment cycles, and progress monitoring.
• Improved student performance through targeted MTSS structures, data reviews, and instructional coaching aligned to Missouri Learning Standards.
• Expanded enrichment and gifted programming through DESE-aligned advocacy and partnerships.
• Organizational Growth & Systems Improvement
• Strengthened instructional coherence by aligning school practices with district curriculum, assessment, and evaluation frameworks.
• Built leadership capacity by mentoring aspiring principals, onboarding new administrators, and facilitating leadership retreats and districtwide learning.
• Successfully secured and managed grants to support academic intervention, enrichment, and professional learning.
• Culture, Climate, & Community Trust
• Improved school culture through consistent expectations, staff accountability, and student-centered practices.
• Increased family engagement and wraparound supports through strategic community and university partnerships.
• Led high-visibility district events that strengthened staff morale, alignment, and organizational identity.