BELLE — The Maries County R-2 School District Board of Education has approved Kaci Jones as the next principal of Belle High School (BHS) for the 2026–27 school year, as current principal Garrett Haslag prepares to leave the district at the end of the current academic year.

Jones brings 10 years of service within the district, where she has built a reputation centered on student success, staff collaboration and community involvement. Her familiarity with the district’s operations, culture and long-term goals comes from holding multiple roles over the years.

She began her career as a paraprofessional before moving into the classroom, teaching first grade and later working in Title I at Bland Middle School. Jones also served as an instructional coach, supporting both students and fellow educators. In addition to her academic roles, she has been active in extracurricular programs, coaching volleyball and overseeing the community’s youth volleyball league.

Jones said she is looking forward to stepping into the role and continuing the progress made at the high school.

“I am excited for the opportunity to lead Belle High School and support our students in reaching their full potential,” Jones said. “My focus will always be on creating a positive environment where every student feels supported, challenged, and prepared for their future.”

Jones praised Haslag’s leadership and impact on the district as he prepares to exit his position.

“Mr. Haslag has been an outstanding leader for our district, and we appreciate the commitment and care he has shown to our students and staff,” Jones said. “I am excited for the opportunity to serve as principal and to continue supporting our school’s growth and success moving forward.”

Haslag commented on his time at BHS and the relationships built during his tenure.

“It has been an honor to serve this school community and work alongside such dedicated students, staff and families,” Haslag said. “While I am excited to begin a new chapter at Osage County R-2, I am grateful for the experiences and relationships that will stay with me. Belle, and the people of Belle, will always hold a special place in my heart.”

He expressed confidence in Jones as she prepares to take over the role.

“Mrs. Kaci Jones has been a longstanding educator in our community,” Haslag said. “I trust her experience and relationships. Belle High School has been a major contributor to the school district’s success in APR growth; increasing overall academic achievement over 10 percent the last two years. I look forward to working with her on a smooth transition to continue that success.”

Superintendent Dr. Lenice Basham lamented Haslag’s departure and remarked about his impact on the school.

“We were very sad to have Mr. Haslag leave the district,” Basham said. “He has done a tremendous job at BHS and is leaving our district in a better academic space than when he came here. We are thankful for his contribution to this district. We wish him luck in his next position.”

Basham said she believes Jones will be a strong fit as the next principal.

“Mrs. Jones will do a great job in her new position,” Basham said. “She brings a decade of dedicated service to the Maries County R-2 School District, where she has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to student success, staff collaboration and community engagement. Her experience within the district has provided her with a deep understanding of its values, traditions and goals.”