Robinson hired as Sikeston R-6 superintendent

SIKESTON — The Sikeston R-6 Board of Education announced on Monday the district has hired a new superintendent.

Dr. Anthony “Tony” Robinson will begin his duties as superintendent July 1, following the retirement of current superintendent, Tom Williams, who has served the Sikeston district for the past 29 years, seven of those as superintendent.

“All of the candidates were more than qualified to lead the Sikeston R-6 School District,” said R-6 Board President Matt Tanner. “However, the board felt Dr. Robinson encompassed all of the things the board, staff and residents of Sikeston were looking for in the next superintendent.”

Tanner said the school board began the task of searching for a new superintendent after Williams’ retirement announcement. The board employed the services of the Missouri School Board Association, or MSBA, to assist in the search.

MSBA immediately held meetings with the board, staff, teachers and public to gain insight into what the board should be looking for in a new superintendent, Tanner said. MSBA solicited for resumes over a three week period, the Sikeston Board received 18 resumes and chose four candidates to interview.

“Dr. Robinson’s experience, knowledge and proven track record of results convinced the board he was the right choice for the district,” Tanner said.

Robinson is no stranger to Southeast Missouri.

For the past few years, Robinson has served as the deputy superintendent for Cape Girardeau schools. He holds a bachelor’s degree in history with an emphasis in social studies; a master’s degree in secondary education administration; and a doctoral degree in education administration.

On Monday, Sikeston R-6 School District posted on its Facebook page, a letter from Robinson directed to Sikeston students, staff, parents and community members.

“I am honored and humbled to be selected to serve as superintendent of the Sikeston School District,” Robinson wrote in the letter. “I want to thank the Sikeston Board of Education for placing their trust in me to serve and lead the Sikeston School District. I have admired the tradition, pride and strong community that exist in Sikeston.”

Robinson said he was also thankful for the strong leadership the district has had under Williams. He said he has a tough act to follow.

“Throughout my experience as a student and as an educator, I have been impacted by those who invested time and energy into my development as a person, student and professional,” Robinson said. “These teachers, coaches, mentors and colleagues developed personal and meaningful relationships with me that have influenced me, encouraged me, challenged me, given me hope and influenced who I am today.”

Robinson said he believes in the power of relationships and their ability to transform the lives or our students and each other.

“I believe we must work together to provide our students with an incredible learning experience,” Robinson said.

His beliefs in relationships has impacted his work as deputy superintendent of Cape Girardeau Public Schools, director of secondary in the Jennings School District and in his roles as a principal and teacher, Robinson said.

Sikeston’s new superintendent said he looks forward to getting to know students, staff, parents and community members. He will set up some time to visit schools and the community over the next few weeks.

“I am excited to start building new relationships and friendships in Sikeston,” Robinson said.

Robinson’s wife, Stephanie, is a payroll accountant, and the couple have been married for almost 25 years. They have three children: Noah, 21, who is studying to be a science teacher; Jonah, 17; and Kamryn, 11.

“I am extremely thankful and grateful for the opportunity to lead the Sikeston School District,” Robinson said. “The Sikeston community can trust me to listen, collaborate, work hard and advocate students. Let’s continue to inspire, ignite and empower one another.”