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Parnell to Lead Wildcat Athletics and Activities Beginning July 1

January 24, 2023

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The Cassville R-IV School District has selected Lance Parnell as the next Activities Director at Cassville Schools. Parnell will begin serving in his new role on July 1 of this year.

Parnell has worked for the district for over 25 years. He began his teaching career at Eunice Thomas Elementary in 1998 as the physical education teacher. After teaching in the primary, he transitioned to the high school where he eventually led the weight-lifting program. Currently, he is serving as the Success Academy teacher, which is an intervention program that began this school year; he is also presently serving as the middle school activities director.

“I am excited for the opportunity to serve as the Activities Director,” said Parnell. “I look forward to serving the district athletic and activity programs in a different role.”

As a veteran wildcat educator and coach, he has spent his entire teaching and coaching career at Cassville. In 1998 he began coaching as an assistant high school coach for the football, basketball and track programs. In 2002, he was named Defensive Coordinator for the varsity football team and earned the spot as Head Varsity Football Coach in 2013 and remained as the head coach until last school year.  

He also served as the Head Golf Coach from 2001-2014.

"We are excited to welcome Coach Parnell to our administrative team," said Dr. Merlyn Johnson, Cassville R-IV Superintendent. "After a successful coaching and teaching career, we know he is a great fit to lead our athletics and activities programs. Over the years, Coach Parnell has done an exemplary job building positive relationships with staff, students and families and we are excited for him to lead all of our district athletic and activity programs."

The decision to hire Parnell comes after current Activities Director, Doug Martin, announced his retirement during the January School Board meeting. Martin has been with the district for 8 years.

“Mr. Martin has done an outstanding job in his tenure here at Cassville,” said Parnell. “He has been a great mentor to me.”

Parnell, and his wife Suzy, live in Cassville and have three daughters and one grandson.