(Joplin, MO) – Joplin Schools is pleased to announce the promotion of Lori Lazure as the next director of Duenweg Education Center (DEC) and the Beacon Autism Center (BAC), effective July 2026. She succeeds current director Chawn Howard who is set to retire in June 2026.
Lazure has served as a Special Education Process Coordinator with Joplin Schools since 2022, and has worked in the district since 2016. During that time, she has worked with general education students, special education self-contained and resource students, and students with autism. Prior to her time in Joplin Schools, Lazure worked as a paraprofessional and an Early Childhood teacher in regional schools.
Having earned a Bachelor of Science in General Studies with an emphasis in Child & Family Development from Missouri State University in 2016, Lazure went on to earn a Masters of Science degree in Child & Adolescent Developmental Psychology from North Central University (MN) in 2023, emphasizing studies on the impacts of trauma. She graduated this month with an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Administration from Park University (MO).
Lazure is trained as a CPI Certified Instructor, a MAP-A coordinator, a Facilitated IEP provider, and in LETRS. She is also associated with CASA: Court Appointed Special Advocate in Jasper County.
Joplin Schools Director of Student Services Dr. Traci Pattison noted Lazure’s strengths in the field of Special Education and administration.
“Lori has been such an asset to Joplin Schools, and we’re excited to welcome her into the work at DEC and BAC,” said Dr. Pattison. “She brings not only a wealth of knowledge on how to help students reach their full potential, but a depth of care and understanding in helping families navigate their students’ needs. Her collaborative efforts with general education and Special Education team members will serve her well in this space.”
“I am both honored and excited for the opportunity to continue the legacy created by these teams and am looking forward to working alongside staff while learning from their expertise,” said Lazure. “I hope to continue emphasizing an environment that not only grows us as a collaborative staff, but also provides an excellent space for our students to learn and be a part of the school community.”
Reference:
Sarah Coyne, Director of Communications
Joplin Schools
sarahcoyne@joplinschools.org
Be the first to comment