The Licking R-8 School District administrative team recently conducted interviews with several qualified candidates for the position of elementary assistant principal for the upcoming school year. Following the interview process, the district administrative team selected Mr. Dustin Bell to fill the position. Regarding Mr. Bell’s hiring, Mr. Brian Barry, Licking Elementary Principal, stated, "I am extremely excited to have Mr. Bell join the Licking Elementary Family for the 2026-27 school year. Mr. Bell clearly aligns with our mission and vision of "Excellence and Integrity Every Day." In his interviews, he clearly demonstrated a passion for learning, as well as a commitment to the children and stakeholders of this district. Mr. Bell will be an extremely valuable asset to the district as we continue to serve the members of this community and work toward excellence in academic achievement for the students here in the Licking R-8 school district."
An experienced educator of 10 years, Mr. Bell has taught at neighboring districts, Salem R-80 and Houston R-1, during his teaching career. His assistant principalship at Licking Elementary will be his first experience as a school administrator. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in history from Drury University, a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction also from Drury University, and a Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership from Northwest Missouri State University.
A resident of the Licking R-8 School District, Mr. Bell enjoys spending time with his family, being outdoors, playing golf, and traveling. When asked about his upcoming role as Elementary Assistant Principal, he said, “It is a privilege to serve as the Elementary Assistant Principal and to uphold our district’s mission of excellence and integrity every day for students, staff, and community. I look forward to being a visible and approachable presence, working alongside families and educators to support the best possible educational outcomes for our students.
We welcome Mr. Bell to the Wildcat Family and look forward to his contributions to the academic success of our elementary school students.