LINN — Linn R-2 welcomes Dr. Billy Cobb as the district’s new activities director and middle/high school assistant principal.

“I’m excited to be here,” said Dr. Cobb, who was hired at the June meeting. “I bring a deep understanding of what it takes to lead with integrity, build positive school culture, and create meaningful opportunities for student success. Serving in dual roles as an assistant principal and activities director, I will consistently prioritize both academic excellence and student engagement, knowing that a thriving school community depends on both.”

With over 15 years of administrative experience in the school system, Dr. Cobb has worked in several large districts but prefers smaller educational settings. “I grew up in a small town and I enjoy it because you get to know everyone,” he said. “Linn has a great community, and the school is a big part of that.”

Dr. Cobb added that in his role as an educational leader, he strives to support high-quality teaching and learning while also recognizing the critical role that co-curricular experiences play in student development. “I work to create systems that support academic achievement, behavior interventions, and student well-being, while also designing and facilitating extracurricular programs that promote engagement, school spirit, and student voice,” he said. “My approach to leadership is collaborative, equity-focused, and grounded in strong, mutually beneficial relationships. I work closely with students, staff, families, and the wider community to ensure that both academic initiatives and student activities are aligned with our school’s mission and values. Whether I’m supporting teachers in data-driven instruction, leading restorative practices, or coordinating school-wide events, I lead with purpose, empathy, and a belief in the transformative power of education.

I believe that student activities are not just ‘extra’—they are essential. They build character, connect students to school, and help them develop the social-emotional and leadership skills they’ll carry for life. I work closely with teachers, coaches, staff, and families to ensure all programs reflect our community’s diversity and meet the evolving needs of our students.”

Most recently, Dr. Cobb was the director of construction for Rolls in St. Roberts. He operated a $100 million construction company and oversaw several projects, including a $40 million renovation of Bennet Spring Hatchery, construction of an $8 million FEMA shelter at Salem R-80, and a remodel at Echo Bluff State Park. Dr. Cobb also coordinated staff retention and training.

During the 2023-24 school year, Dr. Cobb was the Driver’s Education lead instructor at Capital City in Jefferson City. He served as the department chair and wrote a grant for driver-impaired equipment.

Dr. Cobb spent four years (2019-23) at the Waynesville R-VI School District, where he was the executive director of operations responsible for supervising transportation, food service, safety, and facility maintenance.

He held a similar position at Lexington R-V (2017-19), after being the assistant principal and athletic director from 2014-17. Among his many duties, Dr. Cobb led all athletic operations, collaborated with district patrons, staff and students on the implementation of a comprehensive five year (2016-2021) District Strategic Plan, established motivational programs and accountability standards that increased student and faculty attendance, and was responsible for the leadership and direction of 30 faculty and staff members.

Dr. Cobb established and maintained effective discipline policies/plans for students, implemented a student intervention period, which increased academic improvement and reduced student failure rate, raised building ACT/EOC scores and student attendance to highest level, coordinated daily operations, and established motivational programs and accountability standards that increased student, and faculty attendance.

Dr. Cobb began his career at Odessa R-7, where he served as the PE and middle school activities director from 2008-14.

After earning his Bachelors of Science in Physical Education (K-12) at Central Missouri State University in Warrensburg, Dr. Cobb earned his Masters in Teaching (2010) at Webster University in Kansas City, followed by a Specialist in Educational Administration (2012) and his Doctorate of Educational Administration  (2020), both at William Woods University in Fulton.

Throughout his career, Dr. Cobb said he has consistently demonstrated a commitment to being a visible, approachable, and solutions-oriented leader. “Whether organizing school-wide events, managing crisis response, mentoring students, or supporting staff development, I bring consistency, compassion, and a clear vision for student achievement and belonging,” he noted. “Ultimately, my goal is to create a school climate where all students have access to opportunities that develop their character, leadership, and confidence. Through balanced leadership that honors both instructional priorities and the vibrant life of the school community, I aim to help students grow into well-rounded, empowered individuals ready to succeed in life.

Dr. Cobb has coached several sports in his career, including baseball, wrestling, football, and basketball.

He and his fiancee, Bre, are moving to Linn. Billy has two children, Kendall, 17, and Maddux, 15.

Dr. Cobb will officially start his duties on Aug. 1.