NEWS RELEASE. 5/12/2026
MSBA Statement on the Retirement of Commissioner of Education Karla Eslinger
COLUMBIA, Mo. — The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) announced today that Dr. Karla Eslinger will retire from her role as Missouri Commissioner of Education effective June 1, 2026.
Melissa Randol, Executive Director of the Missouri School Boards’ Association, issued the following statement regarding the retirement of Commissioner of Education Karla Eslinger:
“I want to thank Commissioner Karla Eslinger for her extraordinary service to Missouri’s public schools and, most importantly, the children we all serve.
“She has dedicated her career to improving educational opportunities for students across our state and has led with professionalism, compassion, and a deep commitment to public education. Her partnership with local school districts, educators, and stakeholders has made a meaningful impact in communities throughout Missouri.
“We are grateful for her leadership and the countless ways she has supported students, schools, and public education during her time at DESE.”