Bret Ingle to serve as principal at West Central and Columbia

(From Joplin Schools)

Joplin Schools is pleased to announce Bret Ingle as the new head Principal for West Central and Columbia Elementary. For the last eight years, Ingle has served as the principal at West Central.

Ingle grew up in Northern California but has lived in Joplin most of his life. He has been with Joplin schools since 2003. Ingle taught upper elementary at Columbia Elementary for eight years before serving as assistant principal at North Middle School for two years.

Dr. Moss, Superintendent of Schools said, “Mr. Ingle has proven himself as a trusted and effective leader within Joplin Schools. His credibility will go far in establishing a newly united Dover Hill Elementary community of learners.”

Ingle has served on a number of committees for the district over the years and also has experience as the summer school director. He has also served on the Art Feeds Joplin board and is currently a board member for Bright Futures Joplin. 

Ingle said,“I feel extremely blessed to have been a part of Joplin schools and to have the opportunities that I’ve been given. I am looking forward to working with both buildings to preserve the histories and traditions of Columbia and West Central, as well as utilizing them to establish a new identity as Dover Hill Elementary.”

Bret Ingle has his bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Missouri Southern, his master’s of science degree in educational leadership from Pittsburg State, and his education specialist in leadership degree from William Woods. His wife, Shannon is a former Joplin employee and his two daughters attend Jefferson Elementary.