A Houston High School graduate and current HHS social studies teacher has been hired as Licking’s next assistant elementary principal.
Dustin Bell was cited for his passion for learning and commitment to children as his hire was announced by the district. His duties begin July 1 for the 2026-27 school year.
A 2009 HHS graduate, Bell completed both undergraduate and graduate work from Drury University in Springfield. He earned an Educational Specialist degree in K-12 Administration from Northwest Missouri State University.
Bell taught two years at Houston High School after spending eight in Salem.
“I look forward to being a visible and approachable presence,” Bell said, “working alongside families and educators to support the best possible educational outcomes for our students.”
Bell is married to his wife, Macie, and has a two-year-old son, Daxton.