January 23, 2025
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January 23, 2025
School Board Approves Three New Administrators to Lead at Emporia Public Schools
Emporia, KS – Emporia Public Schools is pleased to announce the selection of three new administrators for the 2025-26 school year. On Wednesday night, the Board approved Dr. Erica Mickelson as the Director of Human Resources, Mrs. Stephanie McCracken as an Assistant Principal at Emporia High School, and Dr. Scott Paul as the Assistant Superintendent of Teaching, Learning, and Student Services.
Pictured: Dr. Erica Mickelson, Mrs. Stephanie McCracken, and Dr. Scott Paul
Dr. Erica Mickelson has served as the Director of Teaching and Learning at Emporia Public Schools since July 2023. Prior to this, she was the Director of Elementary Education at Auburn-Washburn USD 437. Throughout her career, Dr. Mickelson has held various leadership positions in education.
Dr. Mickelson expressed her enthusiasm about her new role, saying, "I am incredibly honored and excited to be named the Director of Human Resources for Emporia Public Schools. It is a privilege to continue serving in a district that values its people, prioritizes student success, and fosters a culture of collaboration. Together, we will continue to make a positive impact on our students, families, and community."
"Dr. Mickelson brings an exceptional blend of leadership, experience, and passion for education to this role. Her dedication to fostering strong relationships and her commitment to supporting our staff and students make her the ideal choice to lead our Human Resources department," said Mrs. Pam Stranathan, Assistant Superintendent of Business Operations. "We are thrilled to welcome her to this new position and look forward to the positive impact she will undoubtedly have on our district."
Dr. Mickelson holds a Bachelor’s Degree, two Master’s Degrees, and a Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership from Baker University. She and her husband, Chris, have two daughters, Mae and Marti. The family is actively involved in both education and cattle ranching. Dr. Mickelson will assume the position in July 2025, following the retirement of Mr. Jared Giffin, the current Director of Human Resources.
Mrs. Stephanie McCracken has been with Emporia Public Schools at EHS since August 2010. During her time in the district, she has served as a science/AVID teacher and, more recently, as an Instructional Coach. In both roles, she has taken on various leadership responsibilities and participated in numerous professional development opportunities. Mrs. McCracken has also contributed to extracurricular activities, serving as an assistant basketball and track coach, and as the AVID Coordinator for the past two years.
"I am beyond excited to join the administrative team at Emporia High School as an assistant principal," said Mrs. McCracken. "I look forward to collaborating with our talented staff, supporting our students, and building strong relationships within the school community. I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity and eager to make a positive impact at EHS in this new role."
"Mrs. McCracken has demonstrated outstanding instructional leadership in her current role, earning the respect of our staff through her dedication, expertise, and collaborative approach," said Mr. Dathan Fischer, EHS Principal. "Her commitment to the success of our high school and her ability to foster a positive environment makes her an excellent choice to join our leadership team."
Mrs. McCracken earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Earth Science from Emporia State University in 2010. In 2023, she completed her first Master of Science degree in Curriculum and Instruction, followed by a second Master of Science degree in Educational Administration in 2024. She also holds an ESL endorsement. Mrs. McCracken will assume her duties in July 2025, filling the position left by Mr. Brent Burns, who was recently hired as the principal at Emporia Middle School.
Dr. Scott Paul brings extensive experience in education to his new role, having served as Curriculum Director/Coordinator for Secondary Mathematics with Oklahoma City Public Schools since 2019, where he also led the Southeast Regional Education Board Project. Previously, he worked as an Instructional Coach for Aurora Public Schools in Colorado, as an Educator with the Douglas County School District in Castle Rock, Colorado, and as an Educator and Dean of Students with Scottsdale Unified School District in Arizona for 12 years.
Dr. Paul stated, “I am truly honored to have been selected by the Emporia Public Schools hiring team as the next Assistant Superintendent of Teaching, Learning, and Student Services. I look forward to immersing myself in the Emporia community and getting to know our students, families, and the dedicated team of professionals who are committed to fostering a supportive learning environment for every student.”
Dr. Allison Anderson-Harder, Superintendent, noted that, “Dr. Paul came highly recommended by his current supervisors, bringing a passion for students’ academic success, and a deep understanding of mathematics. It was clear that Dr. Paul puts an emphasis on trusting relationships, professional learning for staff members with active involvement, and continuing the important work that has been accomplished thus far in the Teaching, Learning, and Student Services Department and in our district. We look forward to welcoming Dr. Paul to Emporia Public Schools!”
Dr. Paul earned a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Arizona State University, a Master’s in Business Administration, and a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership and Instruction from Grand Canyon University in 2016. He and his wife, Christy, have been happily married for over 30 years and are proud parents to four children: Carley (26), Harrison (23), Madison (23), and Avery (18). Accompanied by Christy and their three beloved dogs—Griffin, Moxley, and Stella—Dr. Paul looks forward to becoming an active part of the Emporia community. Dr. Paul will assume his position in July 2025 following the retirement of Mrs. Judy Stanley the current Assistant Superintendent of Teaching, Learning, and Student Services.