In May 2019, Elfrink began her role as the Digital Learning Coordinator for Launch, the virtual learning platform developed by Springfield Public Schools that partners with 341 school districts statewide. Elfrink’s role at Launch allows her to support partner school administrators, liaisons and students as their districts implement and expand the use of Launch courses for their virtual learning needs.

“I work with districts on various levels, from implementation to parent and student support,” Elfrink says. “I’ve seen first-hand countless students who—without Launch—wouldn’t have the opportunity to take online classes or, in many cases, even graduate high school. This position has absolutely been the most rewarding way to finish out my career in education.”

Prior to joining the Launch team, Elfrink spent 25 years in the Reeds Spring School District, where she served as a classroom teacher, an instructional technology specialist and—most recently—District Administrator for Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment.

“Janna joined the Launch team with years of experience from various levels of public education," says Dr. Nichole Lemmon, Launch's Director of Digital Learning. “Her knowledge has proven to be an integral factor in Launch’s growth and support across the state of Missouri. She’s a trusted advisor for many of our partner district liaisons, and she will be deeply missed."

After retirement, Elfrink plans to move to Kansas City, where she will live closer to her family, and she hopes to continue working in public education in some capacity. “I have been proud to be part of a profession that has brought me so much joy and has had an impact on the lives of children and families,” she says. “I’d love to stay connected to this world.”

On February 1, Launch began its search to hire Elfrink’s replacement. While the district and Launch plan to take as much time as needed to find the most-qualified candidate, the goal is to hire a replacement as early as possible so Elfrink can work closely with the candidate before her departure on June 30. The job application for Launch’s Coordinator of Digital Learning can be found at spsjobs.org or fueledbylaunch.com/careers.