After more than two decades of leadership and service, Superintendent Matt Zoph is retiring from the Grandview R-II School District—a place he proudly calls his home. His impact on Grandview, Jefferson County, and the lives of countless students and staff will be felt for many years to come.
From the Classroom to the Superintendent’s Office
When asked what first inspired him to go into education, Zoph recalled his early dreams of becoming a football and baseball coach.
“I had a passion for sports and a strong interest in history,” he shared. “After several years in the classroom, I felt called to expand my role and set my sights on becoming an Athletic Director.”
That plan changed quickly. Before he could begin his new position, Grandview’s high school principal resigned—and Zoph was asked to step into the role. “Although I never had the opportunity to serve as Athletic Director, I embraced the challenge,” he said.
Under the mentorship of Superintendent Dr. Brown, Zoph later earned his superintendent certification and was encouraged to lead the district. “Becoming a principal or superintendent was never part of my original plan, but Grandview has always been my home,” Zoph reflected. “I made a commitment to give my best and make Grandview a place our students, staff, and community could be proud of.”
Finding a Home at Grandview
Though Zoph grew up in De Soto, it didn’t take long for Grandview to capture his heart.
“The staff genuinely cared for one another and the community made me feel like part of a family,” he said. “At the end of my first year, De Soto offered me a job, but after much reflection, I knew where my heart belonged. I’ve never looked back.”
Grandview became such a home to him that his son, Mitchell, and daughter, Jordyn, became Eagles, even though his home is located in the De Soto School District.
A Legacy of Growth and Innovation
Throughout his tenure, Zoph helped lead the district through an era of transformation—both educationally and structurally.
“I’ve always believed that being a student or employee at Grandview should never mean having fewer opportunities than those in larger districts,” he explained.
That belief guided a long list of achievements: expanded course offerings, new college-credit options, the launch of the Agriculture program, the transition to a four-day school week, significant salary improvements for teachers, and numerous facility upgrades across the district.
Grandview also became the first district in Jefferson County to go 1:1 with student computers, and the first to develop a model for virtual students—paving the way for programs like the Missouri Online Virtual Academy (MOVA) and the Missouri Online Summer Institute.
Leading Through Adversity
Zoph’s time as an administrator was not without challenges. He shared two that shaped him most deeply.
During his first year as high school principal, Grandview endured an unimaginable string of losses—including the deaths of students and a teacher.
“It was the most difficult period of my career,” Zoph said. “But in that heartbreak, I saw the strength and compassion of our students, staff, and community. I will carry that with me for the rest of my life.”
Years later, as superintendent, Zoph uncovered a $1.8 million embezzlement case involving the district’s business manager.
“It was a painful experience, but it taught me how to lead through adversity with transparency and resilience,” he said. “Once again, Grandview came together and became an even better version of itself.”
The Heart of a Teacher
Even as superintendent, Zoph never lost his identity as a teacher. He shared a story from his early days at Grandview about a shy student whose confidence blossomed after a few words of encouragement. Years later, that same student thanked him during her salutatorian speech for helping her rediscover her purpose.
“Those are the moments that remind us why we teach,” Zoph said. “You never know whose life you may be changing.”
Words from His Colleagues
Joe Willis, Assistant Superintendent at Dunklin R-V, has long considered Zoph both a mentor and friend.
“Matt has always been my go-to for thinking outside the box,” Willis said. “He understands DESE regulations to the letter, not just by assumption. He’s levelheaded, innovative, and never seeks the spotlight.”
“After I lost a student while serving as principal, Matt showed up early the next morning with breakfast for my staff and advice on how to help us through it,” he said. “That’s who he is.”
As for Zoph’s legacy, Willis described him as “an innovator, a voice of reason, and a source of calm amid the constant changes of education.”
Clint Freeman, a fellow superintendent, echoed those sentiments:
“Matt is a man of few words, but when he speaks, all the superintendents in the room listen,” Freeman said. “His leadership has been transformative—he didn’t just manage the district, he nurtured it. I wish him and his family all the best in this exciting new chapter.”
He goes on to highlight his perception of Mr. Zoph by witnessing his behind the scenes work on behalf of the Grandview R2 School District and the Jefferson County schools in general.
"As a fellow superintendent I appreciate his dedication, wisdom, and the countless hours he has invested in making Grandview a place of excellence, but also as his role as Superintendent. I have learned so much from him over the years."
Looking Ahead
When asked what he hopes his legacy will be, Zoph responded simply:
“That I was someone who always tried to do what was best for kids, the district, and the community.”
As he looks toward retirement, Zoph plans to travel the world with his wife, Tracy—exploring Europe, Asia, and South America, and maybe even starting a travel YouTube channel together.
Still, leaving won’t be easy.
“Grandview has been all I’ve known for over half my life,” he said. “What I’ll miss most are the people.”
And perhaps his best advice for those who remain—students, teachers, or future leaders—is this:
“Your attitude sets the direction for your life. Be the leader, not the complainer. You truly decide your own destiny by your attitude in every situation. Enjoy life—it’s too short.”
Thank you, Mr. Zoph, for your vision, integrity, and decades of service to the Grandview community.