New principal named for Gray Elementary

Springfield Public Schools is pleased to announce Beth Sandbothe will be the next principal at Gray Elementary School. For the past three years, she has served as assistant principal at Disney Elementary School.

"Mrs. Sandbothe is a great selection to continue the incredible work occurring at Wanda Gray Elementary, a model Professional Learning Community at Work campus,” said Dr. Tom Masterson, executive director of elementary schools. “She listens first and is deeply committed to making decisions that honor the stakeholders she serves. Joining a dynamic team, Mrs. Sandbothe ensures the future at Wanda Gray is bright."

She began her career with SPS in 2023 after working as a teacher in Nixa for 12 years. She is a product of Springfield Public Schools. After graduating from Glendale High School, she attended Missouri State University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in education. She also has a master’s degree in educational leadership from Southwest Baptist University. 

"I believe great schools are built through strong relationships with families and a commitment to both academic achievement and students’ social-emotional growth each day,” Mrs. Sandbothe said. “Wanda Gray has a strong history of caring for students and families and continuous academic gains, and I am honored to be part of that work as we continue building a legacy of excellence for generations to come.”