South Callaway School District's new superintendent comes from a family of educators.
Corey Pontius assumed the role in June. He took the position after former Superintendent Kevin Hillman retired after nine years with the district.
"I'm super-excited about this new challenge," Pontius said.
While new to his current role, Pontius isn't new to the district. The 2022-23 school year will be his 19th year with the district.
Originally from northeast Missouri, Pontius has a bachelor's degree in physical education and health. He has a master's degree in exercise physiology and an educational specialist in educational leadership.
He started teaching at Missouri Girls Town and later became the at-risk coordinator at South Callaway. He's also been elementary principal for the past 13 years at South Callaway and a teacher at the elementary school before that.
Pontius said he learned the idea that every child can learn and succeed at an early age through the educators in his family.
During his time with the South Callaway School District, Pontius said, he's enjoyed the support community members show for the district.
With his new role as superintendent, Pontius said he wants the district to continue performing at a high level.
"I want to make sure that we continue that and constantly look for areas to improve and support our students and staff the best we possibly can," he said.
One of the things Pontius enjoys about the education field is seeing people reach and surpass their goals.
"I like to see people reach and surpass their goals, and also working together as a team," Pontius said. "I do feel honored for this opportunity to lead at South Callaway."