With over half of the capacity crowd attending the 2018 Heart of Education Banquet composed of his former students, John Willis was presented the Heart of Education Award by the McDonald County Schools Foundation.
Willis was named principal at McDonald County High School in 1967, one year after the formation of the district. He served in that role for 24 years before retiring in 1991.
His friendly but stern leadership of the high school student body earned Willis the respect of both students and parents alike.
This year's award was presented to Willis by Randall Smith, a member of the board of directors for the foundation, former teacher and principal at MCHS and former superintendent of the McDonald County School District.
"It is with great honor and pleasure that we recognize John Willis and the whole Willis family," Smith said. "We thank you for everything you have done. I am proud to present you with the Heart of Education Award. It is very well deserved."
In a video featuring former students, teachers and friends, the humility which Willis displayed toward everyone he meets was referenced more than once. That same humility was displayed in the remarks Willis made after receiving this year's award.
"I don't know that I deserve all of this," Willis said. "Anyway, I thank you, guys. It is amazing and quite a surprise. I really can't believe it for sure. I appreciate the foundation for having me here for this program. I would like to thank all the teachers that worked for me. I would also like to thank all those kids that put up with me. They have gone on to do well in all kinds of occupations. Some went on to colleges, and I appreciate what they have done. I also appreciate those who didn't go to college and have gone out there and gotten honorable jobs and made an honorable living."
Willis also proved "once a principal, always a principal." He took the opportunity to remind one table (Class of 1972) that they needed to be a little quieter.
"By the way, there was one group here behind me that was acting up while this award was going on," Willis said. "They are going to have to come by my office on Monday morning."
Willis was also presented resolutions from the Missouri House of Representatives and the Missouri State Senate, as well as having a Congressional Record of Statement presented from the office of Rep. Billy Long.
Closing comments were provided by Mark Stanton, superintendent of the McDonald County School District.
"To Mr. Willis and to his family, thank you for all that you have done and for all that you still do," Stanton said. "You have paved the way for many, many people who came after you. We thank you for what you did and all the accomplishments your family has achieved as well."
Community on 03/15/2018