Wardsville, MO – The Blair Oaks School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Clay Crouch as the new principal of Blair Oaks High School. Mr. Crouch has spent the past five years serving in the Blair Oaks School District, giving him a strong understanding of Blair Oaks High School, its traditions, and the community it serves. He will succeed Chris Marshall, who has accepted the position of superintendent of the Morgan County R-1 School District.
During his tenure as Activities Director and Assistant Principal at Blair Oaks High School, Mr. Crouch has demonstrated a strong commitment to excellence in both academics and activities. In his current role, he has managed the district’s athletics and activities programs while also carrying out key assistant principal responsibilities, providing support in areas such as student supervision, discipline, and daily school operations.
Prior to working at Blair Oaks High School, Mr. Crouch served as a Physical Education and Health teacher at Linn High School, where he also was the Head Boys Basketball Coach for three years, the Head Baseball Coach for two years, the Middle School Boys Basketball Coach for five years, and the District Athletic Director for one year.
Mr. Crouch holds a Bachelor of Science in K–12 Physical Education and Health from Culver-Stockton College and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from William Woods University. His professional preparation and hands-on experience have equipped him to lead with a focus on high expectations, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
“I am honored and excited to serve as the new principal of Blair Oaks High School,” said Crouch. “I look forward to working alongside our students, staff, families, and community to build on Blair Oaks’ strong tradition of excellence and ensure every student is supported and challenged to reach their full potential.”
Superintendent Ben Meldrum shared, “Mr. Crouch brings a wealth of valuable experience that has prepared him well for this next step in his career. His leadership in athletics and activities, combined with his work as an assistant principal, has given him a strong foundation to succeed as principal. As a district, we are committed to supporting him through this transition and look forward to the positive impact he will have on Blair Oaks High School.”
Mr. Crouch will officially begin on July 1, 2026. The district looks forward to his leadership as Blair Oaks High School continues its mission of providing high-quality educational opportunities for all students.