Director of Student Services

KNPS Names New Director of Student Services
Posted on 03/09/2021
Deenia Hocker Photo

Knob Noster Public Schools is pleased to announce that Mrs. Deenia Hocker has been selected to serve as Knob Noster Public Schools’ Director of Student Services for the 2021-2022 school year.  She will fill the position following the retirement announcement of Dr. Angela Rolofson.

Mrs. Hocker graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology in 1995, a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Special Education in 2000, and a Specialist Degree in Special Education Administration in 2011, all from University of Central Missouri.  She is additionally certified in early childhood special education (PK-K) and mild-moderate cross categorical (K-12). Mrs. Hocker has served as the Director of Special Services for the Holden R-III School District for the past three years.

Mrs. Hocker brings a wealth of experience in special education. She is completing her 26th year in special education, having previously worked in Lee’s Summit, Hickman Mills, Pleasant Hill, and Raytown School Districts in a variety of capacities. Mrs. Hocker has served as K-8 process coordinator, elementary resource and special education co-teacher, autism consultant, and testing examiner.

Along with her experience serving as a teacher and administrator, Mrs. Hocker distinguished herself as the best fit for the position by emphasizing teamwork.  Her collaborative approach to serving students, which includes listening to, valuing, and respecting the opinions of all team members, was the keystone quality and commitment that defined her as the best candidate for this complex leadership position. Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Jerrod Wheeler shared, “We are thoroughly pleased to secure Mrs. Deenia Hocker as our next Director of Student Services.  She offers both the technical expertise as well as the supportive, kind, and compassionate demeanor that is required to successfully navigate challenging issues and bring people together in support of all students.  Dr. Angela Rolofson has done a great job in leading this program for the past six years, and she will be passing the torch into a steady, experienced, knowledgeable, and kind-hearted hand with Mrs. Hocker.”

When asked about the opportunity to serve as Director of Student Services, Mrs. Hocker stated: “I am excited to be joining Knob Noster’s administrative team to continue empowering instruction and learning.”

Mrs. Hocker will begin transitioning into the director role at the end of the school year and will officially take over as Director of Student Services on July 1, 2021. Details on a staff, student and community meet and greet will be communicated in the future.