It is with a heavy heart that we share the sad news of the passing of Dr. Ralph Scott, former Superintendent of the Monett R-1 School District and a beloved member of the community.
Dr. Ralph Scott's teaching career has extended across several educational institutions, including the Monett High School, Monett Junior College, the Brentwood School District, and the Cabool School District. He taught Science, Biology, Chemistry, Botany, Zoology, and Physical Education. In 1957, he returned to Monett, taking on the role of head football coach for two years while also teaching courses in Physics and Science.
In 1965, Dr. Scott was appointed the Superintendent of Monett R-1 Schools, a position held with distinction from 1965 to 1987. Dr. Scott dedicated a total of 36 years of service to the Monett R-1 School District as a teacher, coach, principal, and superintendent of schools.
Dr. Scott was more than an exceptional superintendent; he was a visionary leader dedicated to shaping the future of our community. During his tenure, he initiated a series of transformative projects to enhance our community's well-being.
With a deep understanding of the evolving educational landscape, Dr. Scott took the lead in crafting a groundbreaking plan. This visionary strategy resulted in the approval of four bond issues, securing the necessary funds for significant construction projects. Under Dr. Ralph Scott’s leadership, the Monett Vo-Tech School came into existence. Additionally, the old three-story brick high school building that housed grades 9-12 and the Monett Junior College were torn down to make room for a new high school building, now known as the old Middle School white building.
The Scott Regional Technology Center, formerly known as the Vo-Tech School, stands as a guiding light of educational excellence, empowering our students with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in today's dynamic job market. It is a testament to the dedication of Dr. Ralph Scott, whose commitment to our youth's growth and prosperity remains an enduring legacy.
Throughout his career, Dr. Scott received numerous awards and accolades, including the Outstanding CTA/MSTA School Administrator (1983), the Missouri State Teachers Association Outstanding Administrator (1987), the first Pearce Award from the Missouri Association of School Administrators (of which he served as president from 1972-1973), and the Missouri Pioneer in Education Award from the State Board of Education (1993).
Dr. Scott continued to be actively involved with the Monett R-1 School District, participating in the groundbreaking ceremony in June 2021 for the new Monett Middle School and the ribbon-cutting ceremony in August 2023.
Dr. Ralph Scott's legacy is not confined to the bricks and mortar of our school buildings but lives on through the individual hearts he touched and his profound impact on our community. His dedication, vision, and passion for education have left a lasting imprint on our hearts and will continue to shape the future of our community for generations to come.
The visitation will be on Friday, October 20th, from 4:00-7:00 p.m., and the funeral service will be on Saturday, October 21st, at 11:00 a.m. The visitation and funeral will be held at the First United Methodist Church in Monett.
Dr. Ralph Scott’s family has established a Ralph Scott Memorial fund dedicated to furthering the education of students at Scott Regional Technology Center. To make a donation, please click here.
To read Dr. Scott’s obituary, please click here.
