The Department selected Dr. Blaine Henningsen as Acting Assistant Commissioner in the Office of College and Career Readiness. Dr. Henningsen joined the Department in July of this year as the director of the Pathways to Prosperity Network.

“We are fortunate to have Dr. Henningsen serve on the leadership team, as he brings a wealth of education experience from different regions of Missouri,” said Commissioner of Education Dr. Margie Vandeven.

Dr. Henningsen retired in June after serving seven years as superintendent of Carthage School District in southwest Missouri. He also worked in the Hazelwood School District in St. Louis as an assistant superintendent, principal at Hazelwood East High School and associate principal at Hazelwood West Junior High School. Henningsen started his education career as a social studies teacher. He earned his bachelor’s and his doctorate at the University of Missouri-Columbia and a master’s degree and education specialist degree at Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville.

In his new role in the Office of College and Career Readiness, Henningsen is responsible for overseeing the implementation of state education standards, model curriculum development, the Missouri Assessment Program, and career and technical education programs.