The Murray Independent school board hired David Meinschein as its next superintendent in March. He will begin his tenure July 1. Photo courtesy David Meinschein
(MURRAY, KY) – With experience spanning the military, corporate sector and the classroom, David Meinschein followed an uncommon path to school district leadership as superintendent of Murray Independent. Meinschein’s journey of wide-ranging careers includes military service, corporate leadership, and time in the classroom.
He said he views each stage of his career as preparation for this moment, a culmination of experience, service and leadership. He dedicated five years to active duty in the U.S. Army with the distinguished 101st Airborne and 25th Infantry divisions, earning accolades such as the AUSA and George C. Marshall Awards for military leadership.
After retiring from the military, Meinschein transitioned to the private sector and worked for Anheuser‑Busch, where he said he gained valuable leadership and organizational experience. When he entered the field of education, first as a teacher and then as an athletic director in 2001, he said the experience in the classroom helped him find his true calling. That passion for supporting students and communities ultimately led him to the superintendent’s office.
“From a leadership standpoint, you have to have the ability to cast a vision that everyone can get behind that says this is where we’re headed and this is why and for me it’s about students,” said Meinschein.
Meinschein said he always aspired to be a superintendent, setting his sights high and working toward increasing his capacity and influence. He said as a teenager, he quickly recognized the importance of building strong relationships by being genuine and supportive of others. Meinschein, who has longstanding ties to the community and Murray State University, said that his familiarity with the area was a key factor in his decision to take the role.
“I spend time in the in the city of Murray and I went to college there. Learning about people is the most important thing to do, spending time with people and developing community relationships is important,” he said.
At the core of his vision for Murray Independent is a focus on preparing students for life after graduation. Whether that path leads to college, technical training or directly into the workforce, Meinschein said he wants every student to leave the district equipped with real-world skills.
“We have to ensure that our students graduate from high school prepared to enter the workforce. Everyone has to have some skills that are immediately transferable to the marketplace,” he said.
Another key goal for Meinschein is the construction of a new elementary school along with bringing new innovative ideas to the district while maintaining its tradition of excellence.
The superintendent’s role is important within the broader community. With new leadership in the district, at Murray State and at the Murray-Calloway County Hospital, Meinschein said this is a pivotal moment for the region.
Meinschein explained his motivation for taking the role of superintendent at Murray Independent, emphasizing his belief that his leadership skills and familiarity with the community and Murray State University make him a good fit for the position.
“I have something to offer Murray Independent schools. I believe the skill set that I have in leadership fits what they’re looking for and what their needs are today,” he said.
Meinschein sees many similarities between military leadership and educational leadership. He compared leadership styles in the military and education, stating that they are similar because of the importance of authenticity, vision, and assisting in the development of people. He also said that people want strong leaders and he leads with grace and mercy.
“I think when people think of a military leader, they think very rigid and that’s just not the case. I find that I have to be authentic in my leadership where when you talk to me, I hope … you feel that I’m telling you the truth,” said Meinschein.
Meinschein said his perspectives have been shaped over the years by many mentors, from military leaders and educational mentors to his own parents, who have always instilled in him the importance of a good education. He said his most important mentor is his wife.
“My greatest mentor and, definitely my friend, is my wife, Mary. She’s not only the mother of our seven children, but she’s taught me how to truly care for people and given me the confidence to lead,” he said.
Meinschein said some advice he’d give to aspiring leaders is to seek out great mentors, say yes to opportunities, and always put people first.
As he looks to the future, Meinschein hopes to be remembered as a superintendent who was not only visionary, but an approachable person who led with heart and has positively impacted many children’s lives.
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