The Cape Girardeau Public Schools (CGPS) Board of Education has selected Dr. Brice Beck, the District’s current Deputy Superintendent, to serve as the next Superintendent of Cape Girardeau Public Schools following the retirement of Dr. Howard Benyon at the conclusion of the 2026-2027 school year.
The early selection provides an opportunity for a thoughtful and seamless leadership transition. Dr. Benyon and Dr. Beck will work collaboratively throughout the upcoming school year to maintain the momentum of the District’s strategic priorities and ensure continuity for students, staff, families and the community.
Dr. Beck is a highly respected leader within Cape Girardeau Public Schools and throughout the state of Missouri. His deep understanding of the District, commitment to student success and experience leading key District initiatives position him to build upon CGPS’s progress while providing the consistency and stability valued by the school community.
“I have had the pleasure of working alongside Dr. Beck for several years,” said Dr. Benyon. “He has been instrumental in implementing the District’s strategic plan, which was shaped by valuable feedback from our school community. He understands where we are, where we want to go, and the work it will take to get there. I am confident he will continue moving our school district forward.”
Dr. Beck, who was recognized as the 2025 Southeast Missouri Deputy Superintendent of the Year, brings extensive experience at both the building and district levels to the superintendent’s role. He joined the CGPS central office in 2022 after serving as a building-level administrator at Cape Central High School.
His career in public education began in the classroom and on the athletic field. Dr. Beck previously served as a teacher and coach at McCluer High School in the Ferguson-Florissant School District, as well as at Dexter and Hayti High Schools. Those experiences, combined with his work as a school and district administrator, have provided him with a broad perspective on the needs of students, educators and school communities.
“I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to serve as the next Superintendent of Cape Girardeau Public Schools,” said Dr. Beck. “This is a special school community, and I am proud of the work taking place across our District every day. I look forward to learning alongside Dr. Benyon during this transition year and continuing our work to provide every student and staff member with the opportunities and support needed to succeed.”
Dr. Beck will officially assume the role of Superintendent following Dr. Benyon’s retirement at the conclusion of the 2026-2027 school year.