Monett superintendent dies

Photo courtesy Monett R-1 School District

Russ Moreland led the district since 2018.

Monett R-1 School District Superintendent Russ Moreland died unexpectedly yesterday.

School district officials announced Moreland's death on its website and Facebook page. His age and cause of death were not disclosed, though media reports indicated he was 50 years old.

"The loss of Mr. Moreland is felt by all of our staff, students and parents. Our hearts go out to his family and we join them in grief," Assistant Superintendent Mark Drake said in a statement. "Our immediate focus is on supporting our staff and students by providing the resources they need to process this unexpected news and begin the process of grieving together."

Monett R-1 School District Board of Education President Andrew Bahl said in a statement yesterday that the board would meet in executive session in the evening to discuss the leadership transition.

Moreland in 2018 became the district's superintendent after previously leading Pierce City schools, according to the Joplin Globe.

In Monett, a $21 million building for Monett Middle School is underway after the district passed a quarter-cent tax levy increase in June, according to past reporting.