Savannah R3 Announces New Superintendent
During the August 2023 regular business meeting, the Savannah R3 Board of Education accepted a retirement letter from the current Superintendent, Dr. Eric Kurre. After over 35 years in education and six years with the Savannah School District, Dr. Kurre will close the doors on his final school year on June 30, 2024.
This week, the Board unanimously selected Dr. Brian Hansen as Dr. Kurre’s successor. Hansen will begin in this role on July 1, 2024.
Superintendent Dr. Eric Kurre to Retire June 30, 2024
Throughout his tenure, Dr. Eric Kurre’s commitment to our students, staff, and school campuses has left a lasting mark on both our district and the broader SR3 community. District facilities and academic achievement have flourished under his solid fiscal leadership and strategic guidance.
Dr. Kurre notes, “When my family and I first arrived here, we felt like strangers in a new land. However, this district and community have become our home over time, and the people I have met have become my family. I cannot express the depth of my gratitude for how every one of you has welcomed me with open arms and made my family feel at home.”
While Superintendent Kurre looks to close the book on his educational career, Savannah R3 is opening a new chapter with the addition of a brand new Performing Arts Center, thanks to Kurre’s diligent fiscal planning.
Dr. Brian Hansen Unanimously Selected as Superintendent
Over the past several months, the Board of Education has searched for and considered candidates to serve as the next superintendent via the Missouri Association of School Administrators (MASA), the Missouri School Board’s Association (MSBA), and inviting qualified individuals from across Missouri to apply.
In a unanimous 7–0 decision, the Savannah R3 Board of Education has chosen Dr. Brian Hansen as the next Superintendent of Savannah R3 Schools. This vote of confidence reflects the Board’s trust in Dr. Hanson’s ability to not only build upon our solid educational foundation but also lead our district to even greater success.
Board member Joe Barbosa stated, “Dr. Hansen has consistently proven his worth as a vital member of our district leadership team. As we move forward with multi-million dollar facility investments, the board wanted someone who knows these projects.” Board President Than Wagers went on to say, “Dr. Hansen is clearly invested in our community and has a vested interest in our District. As a board, we look forward to working with him for many years to come.”
Dr. Hansen began his tenure at Savannah R3 in 2019 as the Assistant Superintendent. Upon being hired for the position, Hansen noted, “Savannah has been the best community we have been a part of since moving to Missouri from Nebraska in 2011. It instantly felt like home.”
In Dr. Hansen’s role as Assistant Superintendent, he gained various top-level leadership experiences as he supervised the Human Resources department, served as the District Federal Programs Director, and took an active role in all District Leadership teams.
”I am honored the board has put their trust in me, and I’m excited to lead SR3 in the future.” Dr. Hansen comments, “My immediate plan is to align my goals with the priorities of the board of education to establish a solid vision for the future of our district. SR3 has shown great success and growth since I arrived in 2019, but I would like to continue pushing us to new heights for the betterment of our students and families.”
What’s Next?
As we welcome Dr. Hansen into his new role, he and Dr. Kurre will work hand-in-hand throughout the 2023-24 school year to ensure a smooth transition. We are confident that this collaborative approach will help us maintain momentum while continuing to provide our students with an exceptional education.