Jason D. Merkel
Education Leader | Strategic Planner | Visionary Collaborator
Bourbon,MO
Summary
Professional Summary
Visionary education leader with over 20 years of progressive experience in the Sullivan School District, delivering excellence in academic recovery, strategic facility management, and financial stewardship. Proven track record of transforming challenges into opportunities through transparent communication, data-driven decision-making, and collaborative leadership. Committed to aligning resources and policies to improve student outcomes, enhance operational efficiency, and foster community trust. Prepared to lead the Sullivan School District toward sustainable academic growth and operational success.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Principal
Sullivan High School
06.2020 - Current
- Spearheaded post-COVID academic recovery initiatives, resulting in measurable improvements in AYP metrics through targeted interventions and support programs
- Successfully led the approval and implementation of a $22 million bond issue, including planning for safety upgrades, architectural improvements, and long-term capital projects
- Established a comprehensive communication plan leveraging newsletters, social media, and community forums to maintain transparency and foster trust among stakeholders
- Developed innovative programs, including the Early College Academy and Freshman Seminar, enhancing student preparedness and aligning with district strategic goals
- Directed safety upgrades, including classroom door modernization and facility assessments to meet contemporary standards
- Led school improvement efforts by setting clear expectations for staff performance and providing regular feedback on progress towards goals.
- Streamlined school operations by evaluating processes and procedures, identifying inefficiencies, and recommending improvements.
- Cultivated partnerships with community organizations to provide additional resources and support for students in need.
- Managed budgets and resources efficiently to ensure optimal allocation of funds for school programs and initiatives.
- Led transition to remote learning during unprecedented times, ensuring minimal disruption to education.
- Coordinated facility upgrades and maintenance, ensuring safe and modern learning environment.
Assistant Principal & Athletic Director
Sullivan High School
06.2017 - 06.2020
- Provided leadership in daily operations, emphasizing collaboration and accountability among staff and students
- Directed athletic and extracurricular programs, achieving compliance with district policies and MSHSAA standards while enhancing student engagement
- Oversaw logistical operations, including transportation, custodial services, and event coordination, ensuring seamless functionality across departments
- Supported hiring, training, and disciplinary action in compliance with legal guidelines and requirements.
Head Girls' Basketball Coach
Sullivan High School
06.2005 - 06.2018
- Achieved 294 career wins and multiple District Championships, earning regional recognition for excellence in athletic leadership
- Integrated data analytics and technology into coaching practices, improving player performance and strategy
- Consistently achieved Academic All-Conference honors, blending athletic and academic success for student-athletes
Physical Education Teacher
Sullivan High School
06.2005 - 06.2017
- Delivered innovative, technology-enhanced lessons to engage students and promote wellness, earning positive evaluations from students and parents
- Adapted curriculum to meet the diverse needs of special education students, fostering an inclusive learning environment
A+ Program Coordinator
Sullivan High School
06.2007 - 06.2008
- Managed the district's A+ Program, ensuring full compliance with state standards while mentoring over 100 students in career readiness and community service roles
- Facilitated student access to post-secondary opportunities, contributing to increased program enrollment and graduation rates
- Maintained detailed records of program activities and participant data, ensuring compliance with internal policies and external regulations.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Physical Education
Missouri Western State University
Saint Joseph, MO 05.2001 - 12.2021
Specialist in Educational Administration -
Lindenwood University
Saint Charles, MO 05.2001 -
Master of Educational Administration -
Lindenwood University
Saint Charles, MO 05.2001 -
Skills
- Visionary Leadership & Strategic Planning
- Stakeholder Engagement & Transparent Communication
- Financial Stewardship & Budget Oversight
- Facility Upgrades & Bond Issue Management
- Data-Driven Decision-Making & Academic Recovery
- Visionary Leadership & Strategic Planning
Accomplishments
- Exemplary New Principal Award | 2023
- East Central Region Coach of the Year | 2006, 2009, 2013
- Four Rivers Conference Coach of the Year | 2009, 2013, 2014, 2017
- Missouri Basketball Coaches' Association All-Star Game Coach
- Bourbon High School Teacher of the Year | 2005
Additional Information
Leadership & Committee Experience
- District Leadership Team Member
- Bond Issue Planning & Facilities Strategist
- Instructional Practices Inventory (IPI) Trained Evaluator
- DESE District of Continuous Improvement/MTSS Initiative Leader
- MSHSAA Investigative Committee Participant
Leadership & Committee Experience
Leadership & Committee Experience
- District Leadership Team Member
- Bond Issue Planning & Facilities Strategist
- Instructional Practices Inventory (IPI) Trained Evaluator
- DESE District of Continuous Improvement/MTSS Initiative Leader
- MSHSAA Investigative Committee Participant
Leadership Philosophy
Leadership begins with trust, transparent communication, and a shared vision for progress. I believe in fostering a culture of collaboration and data-driven decision-making to overcome challenges and ensure equitable opportunities for all students. By uniting the Board of Education's mission with the needs of the community, I am committed to advancing Sullivan Schools' legacy of excellence.
Timeline
Principal
Sullivan High School
06.2020 - Current
Assistant Principal & Athletic Director
Sullivan High School
06.2017 - 06.2020
A+ Program Coordinator
Sullivan High School
06.2007 - 06.2008
Head Girls' Basketball Coach
Sullivan High School
06.2005 - 06.2018
Physical Education Teacher
Sullivan High School
06.2005 - 06.2017
Bachelor of Science - Physical Education
Missouri Western State University
05.2001 - 12.2021
Specialist in Educational Administration -
Lindenwood University
05.2001 -
Master of Educational Administration -
Lindenwood University
05.2001 -
Similar Profiles
Natasha KingNatasha King
Security Guard at Sullivan High SchoolSecurity Guard at Sullivan High School
Kidus GutaKidus Guta
Information Technology Coordinator Assistant at Chicago Public School, Sullivan High SchoolInformation Technology Coordinator Assistant at Chicago Public School, Sullivan High School
Gabriella SorrellGabriella Sorrell
Volunteer at The Sullivan FFA OrganizationVolunteer at The Sullivan FFA Organization