Carl Junction Board of Education Announces New Superintendent

The Carl Junction Board of Education is proud to welcome Dr. David Pyle as the next superintendent for Carl Junction Schools. Dr. Pyle will lead 3,370 students and 505 district staff members when his duties begin on July 1, 2025.

The unanimous decision was made after an extensive search and interview process in partnership with the Missouri School Boards Association, in which Dr. Pyle emerged as the top candidate due to his outstanding qualifications, experience, commitment to educational excellence, and community involvement.

Dr. Pyle brings 28 years of experience in education, having most recently served as the Assistant Superintendent of Operations and High School Principal at Carl Junction Schools, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to improving student outcomes. He holds a Bachelor of Science in education degree from Missouri Southern State University, a Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Pittsburg State University, and an Educational Specialist and Doctor of Education from Southwest Baptist University. Dr. Pyle has been at Carl Junction Schools since 2002, starting as a high school science teacher. In 2016, Pyle was named the Missouri State High School Principal of the Year by the Missouri Association of Secondary School Principals.

“The Board of Education carefully evaluated candidates under the light of district goals and priorities,” said Board President Larry Cowger.  “Dr. Pyle has an outstanding reputation of building student success, fostering staff harmony, leading through example, and setting student-centered priorities. This is what we were looking for in our next superintendent.”

“My greatest excitement about becoming the next Superintendent of Carl Junction Schools is the opportunity to continue working alongside the best instructional and support staff anywhere,” said Pyle. “The greatest strength of our school and community is the people. Our staff is committed to the academic development of our students each day. I am honored to have the opportunity to continue leading and serving with them in my new role next school year”.

Dr. Pyle succeeds Dr. Phillip Cook, who announced his retirement in January and will leave the district at the end of June after 20 years as superintendent. He will work closely with district staff and the Board of Education to ensure a seamless transition in the coming months.

“We are confident that Dr. Pyle will be an exceptional leader for our school district,” added Cowger. “We look forward to working closely with him as we collectively strive to provide our students the best possible educational experience.”