Officer Rick Hirshey served in Joplin Schools as a School Resource Officer during his time with the Joplin Police Department, and has made a lasting impact on students, staff, and the community thanks to his bravery and perseverance. 

A 1968 Joplin graduate, Sallie Beard led the creation of the women’s athletics program at Missouri Southern State College in 1974 and went on to coach and lead for several decades.

General Howie Chandler is a 1970 Parkwood graduate, a fighter pilot, and a 4-Star General for the United States Air Force.

Joseph Newman was a 1954 graduate of Joplin High School, a business owner, and an economic developer.