The Northwest R-I School District Board of Education is pleased to announce that Travis Dierker will be the district’s new Chief Operating Officer (COO) effective July 1, 2026.
Dierker has served as the district’s Director of Financial Services since November 2021, where he works closely with the current COO, maintains all financial records, and oversees accounts payable, benefits, and payroll for the district. In his new role as Chief Operating Officer, he will continue to support the district’s mission by overseeing operational functions and fiscal responsibility, ensuring efficient, responsible use of resources in support of student success.
Prior to joining the district, Dierker served as City Administrator for the City of St. Clair, Missouri, from January 2014 through November 2021, where he managed and proposed city operating and capital budgets for 10 different funds, set the annual tax levy and created budgetary amendments throughout the fiscal years, administered approved budgets and worked directly with contractors on city project management. His public service also includes time as an Alderman for the City of St. Clair from April 2010 to December 2013. Earlier in his career, he gained extensive experience in the banking industry from 2005 to 2014, providing him with a strong foundation in financial management and supervision.
Dierker holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Central Methodist University (2009), a Master of Business Administration from Missouri Baptist University (2010), and a Master of Public Policy Administration from the University of Missouri (2018). He is also a Certified Administrator in School Finance Operations through the Missouri Association of School Business Officials.
“Mr. Dierker has already done great work for the Northwest R-I District as our current Director of Financial Services, and we are excited to see him step into the role of Chief Operating Officer,” said Northwest interim superintendent Dr. Doréan Dow. “His experience in city administration and his multiple degrees and certifications in finance and accounting make him a well-suited leader for our Chief Operating Officer position. He is a caring, student-centered individual who understands the big picture of school finance and will work hard to help our district realize our strategic planning goals of providing meaningful educational experiences for students, maintaining robust salary and benefits packages for our staff, and ensuring fiscal stability for our district.”
“I’m honored and grateful for the opportunity to step into the Chief Operating Officer role at Northwest R-1 Schools,” Dierker said. “Having served as Director of Finance, I look forward to building on the work already underway while collaborating with our leadership team to ensure strong operations and sound financial stewardship. I’m excited to continue supporting our students, staff, and community as we work toward the district’s long-term goals.”