Carthage School District Announces New Director of Security

Carthage School District Announces New Director of Security

The Carthage School District is proud to announce the appointment of Larry Swinehart as the Director of Security. This new position is focused on ensuring the safety and security of all district campuses and will oversee a variety of key responsibilities, including public safety, traffic management, and parking. The Director of Security will serve as the main liaison with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, helping to maintain strong partnerships with law enforcement partners and other community organizations.

The Director of Security will also play a vital role in emergency management, collaborating with the Assistant Superintendent of Business to ensure the district is fully prepared to respond quickly and effectively in any emergency situation. In addition, the Director will supervise and support all School Resource Officers (SROs), working to foster positive relationships between students and law enforcement while ensuring a safe learning environment for all.

“We are thrilled to welcome Larry Swinehart as the new Director of Security for Carthage Schools,” said Dr. Holley Goodnight, Carthage Schools Assistant Superintendent of Business. “Mr. Swinehart has been a familiar face around our district for many years, building strong, trusted relationships with both students and staff. His extensive background in law enforcement, combined with over 30 years of experience in public safety and community engagement, makes him the perfect fit for this important role. We are excited to have someone with his knowledge, leadership, and dedication leading our security efforts and helping us continue to create a safe, supportive environment for all students and staff.”

With deep roots in the community, Mr. Swinehart shared his gratitude for the opportunity to continue serving the district and his family’s legacy of service. “I am blessed to have the opportunity to continue serving the students and staff of the R9 District. Service is a cornerstone of our family.  My wife, Jennifer, serves the district as an Administrative Assistant, and our daughter, Shelby, serves as the girls wrestling coach and a medic with Mercy Hospital.  Our oldest, Larry, is a Staff Sergeant in the Army.  Our youngest, Hayden, is a Sergeant with the Carthage Police Department.  Being able to serve in this role is an honor. 

Mr. Swinehart is a seasoned law enforcement professional with extensive experience in public safety, supervision, and community engagement. He holds a BS in Criminal Justice Administration from Missouri Southern State University and currently serves as the School Resource Liaison Officer for the Carthage Police Department and Carthage R-9 School District. His prior roles include Police Captain with the Joplin Police Department and Patrol/Field Training Officer in Carthage.

The Carthage School District looks forward to the leadership and partnership that Mr. Swinehart will bring to our schools and community.