The Springfield City School District is proud to announce that longtime staff member Lynn Payton has been named a 2025 Legacy Leader by The Nehemiah Foundation and will be honored at the organization's upcoming Rise & Build Leadership Breakfast.
The annual event convenes Springfield faith and civic leaders to recognize individuals who are creating lasting impact through service, leadership and investment in the next generation. This year’s theme, “Legacy Leaders: Leading with the Next Generation in Mind,” reflects a shared commitment to building a stronger future through mentorship, education, and sustainable community partnerships — values that lie at the heart of the District’s mission.
Payton, who has served in the District since 1996, currently works as the Coordinator of Family Outreach Connections. In this position, she oversees critical programs such as McKinney-Vento homeless services, Adult Education, Early Head Start and Project Springboard. Through her leadership, she has connected hundreds of families with wraparound resources that support stability and lifelong learning.
“Lynn’s dedication to the families of Springfield has been unwavering for nearly three decades,” said SCSD Superintendent Dr. Bob Hill. “Her work is a powerful reminder of how all parts of life affect a child’s educational success. We are thrilled to see her recognized for the legacy she continues to build.”