Introducing TWO new Joplin Schools Principals for 2025-26!

Eagles,

We are thrilled to let you know that two of our own Eagles have accepted positions as head Principals for the 2025-26 school year. Please help us congratulate Tylan Harris as the next principal at Eastmorland Elementary, and Josh Thompson as the next principal at Jefferson Elementary!

Mr. Harris currently serves as Assistant Principal at Irving Elementary, having been an educator in Joplin Schools since 2018. He began his time in the district as a fifth grade teacher at Jefferson Elementary, and held the position of head coach of the Freshman Football Team from 2020-2023. Prior to joining the field of education, he spent time in social work, behavior support, and client treatment supervision. 

Mr. Harris earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Missouri Southern State University, followed by a Masters of Science in Educational Leadership from Pittsburg State University. 

He has been nominated for the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce’s Golden Apple award four times, and was a Runner-Up for Joplin Schools Teacher of the Year in 2019-20. As head principal at Eastmorland, Mr. Harris will succeed Heather Surbrugg, who is transitioning to building leadership at Joplin Early Childhood.

Currently serving as Assistant Principal at Soaring Heights Elementary since 2023, Mr. Thompson has been an educator in Joplin Schools since 2016. He has held positions teaching English Language Arts and Physical Education at East Middle School, and served on the building’s Leadership Team. He was also head coach of the boys and girls soccer teams at Joplin High School from 2018-2023.  

Mr. Thompson earned a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from Missouri Southern State University, followed by a Master of Science in Educational Administration, also from Missouri Southern State University.

As head principal at Jefferson Elementary, Mr. Harris will succeed Kern Sorrell, who has announced his retirement at the end of the 2024-25 academic year.