Former Webb City, East Newton, Liberal principal named Monett superintendent

(From Monett Schools)

During the February 3, 2021, special board meeting, the Monett Board of Education named Dr. Mark Drake Superintendent of the Monett School District. Dr. Drake will officially begin his duties on July 1, 2021, as he succeeds Dr. Kent Medlin, who served as the Interim Superintendent after Mr. Russ Moreland's passing. Dr. Mark Drake will be the leader of 2,648 students and 444 staff members.

"I would like to thank the Monett Board of Education and the Monett School District for allowing me to serve this community. I am honored to have joined the Monett team for a short time," said Dr. Medlin. 

Dr. Drake has been in education for 22 years and in his current position since 2020. As the current assistant superintendent for Monett Schools, Dr. Mark Drake assists the Interim Superintendent, Dr. Medlin, in providing leadership in developing, achieving and maintaining the best possible educational programs and services. 

School Board President, Mr. AJ Bahl, said, "Out of high applicants, Dr. Mark Drake is the transformational leader the Monett School District needs. The Board of Education gained input from collaborative groups made up of staff and community members. 

We used the information received to carefully evaluate candidates for the Monett Superintendent role. Dr. Drake's background and experience proved he is the right candidate to lead Monett Schools. He understands the importance of community building and acquires an unyielding commitment to students' success."

Dr. Drake has significant experience in administration as the High School Principal at Liberal, MO for four years, Middle School Principal at East Newton for four years, and Elementary School Principal at Webb City for eight years. After serving as the Elementary School Principal at Webb City, he joined the Monett R-I School District as the Assistant Superintendent. 

"We have faced trials and tribulations this year. We have proven that we can persevere, overcome, and meet students' needs in trying times. I look forward to working with students, staff, and our School Board of Education to continue advancing the mission and vision of the Monett School District," said Dr. Mark Drake.