West named new Mt. Vernon school chief

Elementary principal to succeed Scott Cook

Mt. Vernon principal Christina West has been named the new superintendent of the Mt. Vernon School District, following the resignation of Superintendent Scott Cook, who held the job for nine years.
A Mt. Vernon native and graduate of all the Mt. Vernon schools as a child, West returned after college as a first-year teacher in 1998 and taught third grade for 16 years.
“I then became a Title I reading teacher for a year before stepping into the role as MVES principal. I have been in that role for 10 years,” she said. “I have been married to Ryan for 27 years, and we have two girls, Josie and Macie.”
West earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Southwest Baptist University and subsequently earned a master’s degree from SBU in 2002, and a Specialist Degree in Educational Administration from SBU in 2019.
“I’m incredibly excited and honored to serve as the new superintendent of Mt. Vernon Schools. This is a special place, and I’m proud to be part of a district that is rooted in traditions and committed to growth.”
West emphasized her passion about investing in every part of the school district, from staff to the students.
“I’m committed to keeping our high expectations and strong values at the forefront, while also making sure we create meaningful opportunities for all students,” West said. “We’ll continue building a strong foundation in core skills, while also finding new and innovative ways – like project-based learning – to keep middle and high school students excited about learning.”
“I’m also committed to keeping our facilities in great shape. We’ve made a lot of important updates over the past several years, thanks to Mr. Cook, who has been proactive and innovative, and it’s important that we stay proactive about maintenance so we can protect the great progress that’s already been made.”
West also wants to pay special attention to the district’s finances, and keep the public versed in that assessment, critical as the district moves into the state-mandated minimum salary of $40,000 base pay for teachers without inching up the salary base, as other districts have done.
“I’m looking forward to helping educate our community on how school finance works, making sure everyone feels informed and involved as we make decisions for our future,” West added. “It is truly humbling and such an honor to be given this opportunity to serve the entire Mt. Vernon school community. I am so proud of our students, staff, and community.”