School and Community Winter 2024

In Memory

New Staff

It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of our dear colleague and MSTA Board member, Christopher Wright. Christopher’s unwavering dedication and contributions to MSTA have left an indelible mark on all of us. Our thoughts and deepest condolences go

Meet Mike Harris, MSTA’s Government Relations Manager Where are you from? I was born in Portland, Oregon but grew up and went to school in Chandler, Arizona. What is your educational background? I attended Truman State University on a football scholarship and graduated in 2003 with a degree in Business Administration. Work background? I coached college football at Truman after graduation, then moved to Jefferson City

out to Christopher’s colleagues, fellow MSTA volunteer leaders and, most importantly, his family during this difficult time. Christopher Shane Wright, of Sullivan, Missouri, passed away on December 11, 2023. Christopher was a beacon of light known for his unwavering faith and joyous spirit. Growing up in Sullivan, Christopher graduated from Sullivan High School in 1996, where he excelled in theatre and choir. He pursued his passion for education, earning a B.A. in Elementary and Early Childhood Education from Southwest Baptist University. In 2000, Christopher began his teaching journey in Rolla, MO, where he became a beloved second and third-grade teacher at Wyman Elementary School. His unique ability to connect with his students and inspire a love of learning was evident in every lesson he taught. After 13 years of shaping young minds, Christopher transitioned into a role as an IT specialist with the Rolla School District. His expertise and passion for technology transformed the educational experience for both students and teachers. Recognized as Teacher of the Year in 2004, Christopher's dedication to education was undeniable. Christopher was a devout follower of Christ and his interests and involvement in his church, Temple Baptist Church, reflected his deep faith. He was an integral part of the technology team, selflessly volunteering his time every Sunday to operate sound and video for worship services. His contributions to the church's mission and community were a testament to his faith-filled spirit. In his younger years, Christopher's passion for service was evident in his participation in youth mission trips, where he helped spread kindness and compassion. A man of many talents and interests, Christopher had a love for reading, watching movies, and could always be counted on for a thorough movie critique or an impressive recall of movie trivia. His sense of humor and intelligence shone through in his hobbies, which included cooking new recipes, as well as a cherished Star Wars collection that he enjoyed adding to over the years. The stories, memories and lessons he left behind will continue to inspire and guide the countless lives he touched.

in 2006 and have worked at the Department of Revenue and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. At DESE, I served as the Chief of Governmental Relations and legislative liaison, working directly with the State Board of Education and the Commissioner. Family details? I have been married for 17 years to Becky, with three kids (Ellie, Holden and Finley) who attend Jefferson City Public Schools. We have a one-year-old puppy named Ajax. Why MSTA? I decided to come to work for MSTA because I firmly believe that teachers are the most significant factor in determining students’ success. Their dedication, knowledge and commitment to nurturing young minds shape not only individual futures, but also the overall trajectory of our state. My hope is to play a part in providing teachers with the resources, advocacy and support they need to excel in their crucial role as educators. Investing in teachers ultimately leads to a brighter and more prosperous future for our students and communities. I most look forward to talking directly with educators about what we can do in the Capitol to help you day to day in the classroom. What’s a fun fact about you? In 2019, I completed the Ozark 100, a 100-mile trail race in the Mark Twain National Forest.

Welcome Jessica Yates to MSTA Accounting! Where are you from? I’m from the Columbia area. All the way back to nursery school at Jack and Jill. My parents met at the Heidelberg and got married at Missouri United Methodist Church! We spent five years in Colorado but came back to the area when I was in junior high. What is your educational background? I went

to Hickman for a bit and ended up graduating from Centralia. Directly after HS, I started college at the University of Missouri, working on a degree in Family Studies and graduated from Columbia College with a degree in Social Work. Work background? I’ve worked in the lending and insurance industries, but spent most of my career in the textbook industry. Family details? I have two daughters who are 15 months apart, who are now grown and have a 5 year old grandson that has taken over my whole heart - and he knows it! I spent a large amount of time juggling being a stay at home mom during the day and completing my college degree in the evenings. Why MSTA? I’m excited to be working at MSTA because I feel like I get to marry my knowledge of insurance with my experience working with teachers to make an impact on those who matter so much (but get so little credit) - our state’s educators! I am a huge proponent of literacy and have spent many hours reading to my kids and even volunteering at the school to read to other kiddos. What’s a fun fact about you? I hope to one day sponsor a book sale at one of our local schools to ensure every child has a book.

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