SPS announces new principals for two schools

Springfield Public Schools is pleased to announce two new principals for the 2026-2027 school year. Sydney Dean will be the next principal at Twain Elementary School, and Anne Longwell will be the next principal at Fremont Elementary School.

For the past three years, Dean has served as assistant principal at Bowerman Elementary School.

"Mrs. Dean is the perfect selection to be the next principal at Mark Twain Elementary. She is a passionate, creative leader who is focused on investing in others,” said Dr. Tom Masterson, executive director of elementary schools. 

“Mrs. Dean is dedicated to student success, staff satisfaction, and family engagement. I am excited to see the impact of her leadership in the coming years at Mark Twain.”

She began her career with SPS in 2018 as an English and theater teacher at Kickapoo High School. She has also served as an administrator with the Explore summer learning program, including being Artworks coordinator for the past four years. 

Prior to joining SPS, Dean worked for Mexico Public Schools and Laclede County R-I Schools. She attended Missouri State University where she earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in English education. She also has a specialist degree in educational leadership from University of Missouri. Dean is currently working toward her doctorate in educational leadership from University of Arkansas. 

“I am deeply honored and elated to join the Mark Twain community—a place where an energetic spirit and a heartfelt commitment to every student’s success shape the story of each day,” Dean said. “Together, we will nurture a culture of continuous growth, working side by side to create meaningful learning experiences and ensure every child who walks through our doors feels a true sense of belonging and is surrounded by the opportunities and support they need to grow into their very best selves and achieve great things.”

Longwell currently serves as assistant principal at Delaware and Mann elementary schools. She began her career with SPS in 2015 as a kindergarten teacher. Since then, she has served as a teacher at Gray Elementary and school community liaison at Pittman Elementary. 

“We are excited to welcome Mrs. Longwell as the new principal of Fremont Elementary. She is a reliable and consistent leader who values deep partnerships with students, teachers, and parents,” said Cindy Webster, executive director of elementary schools. “Her ability to cultivate a positive, supportive school culture, combined with her clear strategic direction, will provide a strong roadmap for the students and staff at Fremont Elementary!”

Longwell earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in educational administration at Missouri State University. She also has a master’s degree in education from Drury University. 

“I am honored and excited to join the Fremont Elementary community. I am inspired by the dedication and passion of the staff, and look forward to working alongside such a talented team,” Longwell said. “Most importantly, I am excited to support our Fremont students, and ensure they feel valued, challenged, and inspired to learn each day. Together with our staff and families, we will continue building a school where every student can grow, succeed, and reach their full potential.”

These leadership appointments will take effect July 1, pending approval by the Board of Education.