February 27, 2025
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February 27, 2025
School Board Approves Two New Administrators to Lead at Emporia Public Schools
Emporia, KS – Emporia Public Schools is pleased to announce the selection of two new district-level administrators for the 2025-26 school year. On Wednesday night, the Board approved Dr. Paula Hough as the Director of Teaching and Learning, and Dr. Stephanie McNemar as the Director of Student Services
Pictured: Dr. Paula Hough and Dr. Stephanie McNemar
Dr. Paula Hough currently serves as a Program Manager for Special Education Policy and Practice at WestEd. Before joining WestEd, she was the Executive Director of Teaching and Learning for the Manhattan-Ogden School District. She also held leadership roles in Holton, Kansas, as the Director of Curriculum and a Middle School Assistant Principal. Throughout her career, Dr. Hough has worked to support students, educators, and school communities.
"I am thrilled to join Emporia Public Schools as the Director of Teaching and Learning,” said Dr. Hough. “I look forward to building strong relationships with educators, students, and community members as we work together to support excellence in teaching and learning."
Dr. Scott Paul, incoming Assistant Superintendent of Teaching, Learning, and Student Services for the 2025-26 school year, noted that “Dr. Hough comes highly recommended by her current and previous supervisors, bringing a passion for students’ academic success, and a deep understanding of curriculum, instruction, and Multi-Tiered System of Supports. It was obvious that Dr. Hough builds trusting relationships, creates professional learning for staff members with active involvement, and continuing the significant work that has been accomplished thus far in the Teaching, Learning, and Student Services Department. We look forward to welcoming Dr. Hough to Emporia Public Schools!”
Dr. Hough earned her Bachelor's degree in English Literature from the University of Montana and a Bachelor's degree in Secondary Education in English from Minnesota State University. She then earned a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from MidAmerica Nazarene University, a Master’s in Building Leadership from Pittsburg State University, and a Master’s in District Leadership from Emporia State University. She later earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Argosy University.
Dr. Hough will assume her duties in July 2025. She will succeed Dr. Erica Mickelson, the current Director of Teaching and Learning, who will transition to the role of Director of Human Resources.
Dr. Stephanie McNemar brings a great deal of experience in education to her new role, having served as a Site Administrator and currently as the Director of Teaching and Learning with Colby Public Schools. Previously, she worked extensively in the Special Education area since 2006 in Geary County USD 475.
“I am excited to have been selected as the Director of Student Services. This position brings me back to my former special education teacher roots,” said Dr. McNemar. “I am also looking forward to working with the districts and families of the Flint Hills Special Education Cooperative to support the learning of all students.”
Dr. Scott Paul, incoming Assistant Superintendent of Teaching, Learning, and Student Services for the 2025-26 school year, said “Dr. McNemar received outstanding endorsements from both her current and former supervisors. She demonstrates a strong commitment to the academic success of all students, along with a profound understanding of Special Education, Teaching and Learning, and the Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS). From our first meeting, it was clear that Dr. McNemar possesses an exceptional depth of knowledge in Special Education. She will play a vital role in advancing the important work already underway in the Teaching, Learning, and Student Services Department. We are excited to welcome Dr. McNemar to Emporia Public Schools!”
Dr. McNemar holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Special Education from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, a Master’s degree in Reading (Reading Specialist) from Loyola University of Maryland, a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Kansas State University, and a Doctorate of Philosophy in Curriculum & Instruction.
Dr. McNemar will assume the role of Director of Student Services in July 2025, succeeding Mrs. Tara Glades following her resignation.