Jefferson City News

The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has announced that Kelli Jones will serve as the new deputy commissioner of the Division of Learning Services. Jones is set to assume this position on November 1, 2024, bringing over two decades of experience in education to DESE.

“Kelli brings a blend of vision, analytical skills, communication prowess, and enthusiasm for education,” said Commissioner of Education Karla Eslinger. “I am looking forward to working with such a dynamic leader!”

Jones, a Missouri native, currently serves as Governor Mike Parson’s Deputy Chief of Staff, a role she assumed in July 2023. Since 2018, she has served as Parson’s Communications Director and Press Secretary during his tenure as Lieutenant Governor and later as Governor. Her time in the Parson administration was marked by significant achievements related to education, including securing full funding for the Foundation Formula, increasing educators’ salaries, and enhancing pay for veteran teachers.

Before joining state government, Jones was the Communications and Social Science Department Chair and an instructor at State Technical College of Missouri from 2003-2018. In this role, she led a team of more than a dozen educators in developing curriculum and standards, managing assessment plans, teaching communication/English courses, and offering dual credit courses in area high schools.

Jones holds a bachelor’s degree in arts and letters and a master’s degree in communication and management from Missouri State University.

Media may access Jones’ headshot here.

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