Chase is out of retirement, back as a schools administrator

COLUMBIA — Phyllis Chase, former superintendent of Columbia Public Schools, is out of retirement and back to work as associate superintendent of teaching and learning in the North Kansas City School District.

Chase has worked part time with the district since January, assisting Todd White, deputy superintendent, with his transition to the role of superintendent.

Chase retired as Columbia Public Schools superintendent on Aug. 31 after five years in the position. She said she decided to come out of retirement after working with the staff of the North Kansas City district and hearing White's vision for the district.

To come out of retirement, Chase had to notify the Public School Retirement System of Missouri that she will again work full time, which will suspend her current retirement benefits.

"I am excited to become a part of this dynamic learning community," Chase said. "With Kansas City being my home, it has also provided me the opportunity to renew relationships with friends and family."

Chase sold her home in Columbia and no longer has a residence in the community. Her new post officially starts July 1.

During the past year, Jim Ritter, former schools superintendent, has served as the Columbia district's interim leader. Chris Belcher, superintendent of the Kearney R-1 School District, was hired by the Columbia School Board in February and takes over the job on July 1.