Perry County School District 32 has completed its 2026-27 administrative team with the recent appointment of three new additions.
Valerie Doran is the new Assistant Principal at the Perryville Primary Center while Josh Hahs joins District 32 as the Director of Maintenance and Jeff Steffens returns to Perryville Elementary to serve as Assistant Principal. Doran and Steffens began their new roles July 1 while Hahs will begin in August.
Doran brings 14 years of classroom experience into her first administrative role. She spent the last six years as the Success Room Coordinator at PPC following eight years as a kindergarten teacher at PPC and New Franklin Elementary .
Doran earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from William Woods University in 2012 and her master’s degree in educational leadership from Northwest Missouri State in 2021. She holds Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) certifications in early childhood and elementary education as well as an initial administrator certification.
"Working with our youngest students has always been my passion, and I am excited to continue supporting their growth and success as Assistant Principal,” Doran said.
Doran joins Principal Lacey Amschler, who enters her first year leading PPC.
Hahs joins District 32 from Oak Ridge R-6 where he has served as the Maintenance Director for the last two years. He brings more than 20 years of construction and maintenance experience to District 32.
Steffens enters his second post-retirement administrative appointment at PES after serving as the building's Principal for the 2023-24 school year. Prior to his retirement in 2022, Steffens served 21 years in administration at Perryville High School, including six years as Principal and 15 as the Assistant Principal and Athletic Director. Steffens began his career as teacher’s aid in District 32 before spending 10 years as a classroom teacher.
Mr. Steffens holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Southeast Missouri State University and a master’s degree in administration from Southwest Baptist University. He is also a longtime bus driver for District 32.
"Perry County School District 32 has truly been my second home. Throughout my career here, nothing has brought me more joy than watching our exceptional teachers help students grow and prosper,” Steffens said. “I am incredibly excited to step back into this role and continue supporting our amazing school community."
Steffens joins Principal Dr. Amy Dill, who enters her third year leading PES.