Matt Harding named North Middle School principal

(From Joplin Schools)

Joplin Schools announced today that Matt Harding has been named principal of North Middle School. He will begin the position August 1. He replaces Dr. Brandon Eggleston, who was recently named principal for Joplin High School.

Mr. Harding has served as an assistant principal at Joplin High School since 2010. He helped manage the operations of the temporary JHS 9/10 Campus from 2011 to 2014 following the tornado.

“Mr. Harding is a great fit for this important leadership role,” said Dr. Norm Ridder, interim superintendent for Joplin Schools. “His experience in the classroom and years as a high school assistant principal will ensure a continued positive focus on improvement and excellence for students and staff at North Middle School.”

Mr. Harding began his teaching career at Joplin High School in 1999. He has served the district for 17 years. He received a bachelor’s degree in secondary education from Missouri Southern State University, Joplin. He earned a master’s degree in education administration from William Woods University and a specialist degree in education leadership from Southwest Baptist University. Mr. Harding was also named Assistant Principal of the Year by the Southwest Missouri Association of Secondary School Principals.