Shawnee Mission School District announced the appointment of two new high school principals for the 2026‑27 school year, highlighting deep local ties and a focus on student achievement and community belonging.
Leah Vomhof Returns to SM East
Leah Vomhof, a 1998 graduate of Shawnee Mission East, will serve as the school’s next principal. “I truly care about this school and this community, having grown up here,” Vomhof said. “I live in the community now as an adult, and I don’t take that for granted. The opportunity to support East is a true honor and privilege.”
Vomhof brings two years of experience as principal of Blue Valley Northwest and a lifelong family background in education—her mother, grandmother and aunt were all teachers. She earned a bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s in curriculum and instruction from the University of Kansas, followed by a school‑leadership licensure program at Fort Hays State University. She is currently completing a district leadership program at KU.
Her immediate goals for SM East focus on academic achievement and a sense of belonging. “We know if a student has a trusted adult or something they look forward to outside of academics, they’ll want to come to school,” Vomhof explained, noting the connection between engagement and attendance.
LaTisha Williams Leads SM Northwest
LaTisha Williams, originally from Atchison, Kansas, steps into the role of principal at Shawnee Mission Northwest. “I have come to a school building that is so supportive and inclusive of everyone,” Williams said, praising district administrators, associate principals, office staff and teachers.
Williams attributes her love of education to her grandmother, who taught Sunday school and organized church plays. She earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary and special education from Benedictine College, a master’s in building administration from the same institution, and a doctorate of education from Kansas State University in 2025.
For her first year, Williams plans to deepen relationships across the school community. “My first goal is to really build those relationships with folks across the board,” she said. She also wants to learn more about the academic programs offered at Northwest and ensure no barriers prevent any student from succeeding.
Community Impact
Both principals emphasized the importance of strong adult relationships, supportive environments, and inclusive practices—values that resonate with families throughout the district. Their appointments reflect the district’s commitment to promoting leaders who understand the local community and can foster a culture where every student feels seen and valued.
The district looks forward to the upcoming school year, confident that Vomhof’s and Williams’s shared dedication to education, faith in community, and focus on student well‑being will help drive continued success for Shawnee Mission’s high schools.
Original reporting: Johnson County Post (Overland Park) — read the source article.
