John Kitchens is the Superintendent of Fatima School District (Osage R-III) in Missouri, where he leads district operations, strategic planning, and community engagement. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from Lincoln University, a Master’s in Educational Administration from William Woods University, and an Educational Specialist Degree from Northwest Missouri State University.

With extensive experience in educational leadership, assessment, and policy, Kitchens has served as Director of Data and Assessment for Hazelwood School District, Executive Director of Assessment and Accountability for Riverview Gardens School District, and the Director of Science Curriculum and Assessment for the state of Missouri’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. In these roles, he developed statewide science assessments, shaped state accountability policy, and partnered with district leaders to strengthen instructional practices. His work has consistently focused on improving student learning, preparing success-ready graduates, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across schools.

Kitchens began his career in education as a high school science teacher at New Bloomfield, where he also coached basketball. His leadership philosophy centers on transparency, student engagement, parent engagement, community partnerships, and data-driven decision-making.