Our Commitment

The Human Resources staff is committed to hiring quality employees to serve the students and families of the Independence School District. We strive to provide personal connections and excellent service to both candidates seeking employment and to current employees. We look forward to working with you and answering any questions you may have.

Dr. Gary Hogue – Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources

Dr. Gary Hogue joined the Independence School District in 2009 after serving 12 years as Assistant Superintendent in the Logan-Rogersville School District. Prior to that, Dr. Hogue was a principal in Aurora, Missouri. He received his undergraduate degree from Northwest Missouri State University, and his doctorate from the University of Arkansas.

Dr. Hogue is a member of the American Association of School Personnel Administrators (AASPA) and has presented to the Missouri Association of Secondary School Principals.

Dr. Hogue volunteers weekly as a YouthFriend “lunch buddy mentor.”

Dr. Linda Gray Smith - Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources

Dr. Linda Gray Smith joined the Independence School District as Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources in 2011. Dr. Smith came to the district with experience serving as superintendent of the Chillicothe R-II School District and of the Worth County R-III School District. As a principal in Lamoni, Iowa, Dr. Smith worked with the middle school and the elementary school. Starting her career as an elementary teacher and a secondary English teacher, Dr. Smith also worked as a language arts and school improvement consultant in the area education agency system in Iowa.

Holding a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from Iowa State University, Dr. Smith’s master’s degree and undergraduate degree are from Northwest Missouri State University.

When not working in her office or around the district, Dr. Smith can often be found in the district’s Wellness Center trying new fitness classes, or riding her bike around Independence. Dr. Smith has three grown children and two grandchildren.

Notice of Non-Discrimination

It is the policy of the Independence School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs, activities or employment practices.

Inquiries related to District employment practices may be directed to the District Central Office, Director of Human Resources–Certificated Staff, 201 N. Forest Ave., Independence, Missouri 64050; telephone number 816-521-5300. Inquiries related to District programs may be directed to the District Central Office, Title IX Coordinator, 201 N. Forest Ave., Independence, Missouri 64050; telephone number 816-521-5300.

Any person having inquiries or concerns regarding the civil rights compliance of the Independence School District is directed to see the list of Office of Civil Right enforcement offices that serves your area, or call 1-800-421-3481.