Jim Newsted will be the new high school physical education teacher, head football coach, and head track coach. The West Platte School Board voted to hire Newsted at a Friday morning special meeting.
Coach Newsted began his teaching career at Cass Midway in Cleveland, Missouri, where he taught all levels of high school science. While at Cass Midway, Coach Newsted also served as the offensive line coach for the football program and coached track and girls basketball.
Coach Newsted helped the Cass Midway football program win a class one state football title in 1996.
After four years with the Cass Midway School District, he moved to Centralia, Missouri to teach science and coach. Over his 22-year tenure at Centralia High School, Newsted coached girls basketball, wrestling, track, and football.
As a football coach, he served as both defensive and offensive coordinator at different times over 17 years, helping Centralia to multiple conference and district championships, two state finals appearances, and a state championship in 2003. For the past three years, Coach Newsted has compiled a record of 21-11 as Centralia’s head football coach, with an undefeated regular season in 2019.
Jim Newsted is originally from Newton, Kansas. He graduated from Baker University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology. He earned his Master’s Degree in Administration through William Woods University.
“Football is more than just a game, it’s a bond of individuals. It is a sport that unifies individuals into one working machine, Coach Newsted said. “Players become accountable for themselves and each other. They ultimately become family. I feel privileged to have the opportunity to build this West Platte football family.”
Brett Swope will be the next elementary school physical education teacher, head wrestling coach, and assistant varsity football coach.
The West Platte School Board voted to hire Swope at a Friday morning special meeting.
Coach Swope began his teaching career in St. Joseph, Missouri at Central High School, where he taught all levels of high school physical education and was department chair.
Coach Swope has been head wrestling coach at Central H.S. for the past 17 years and has coached numerous State qualifiers and medalists in class 4.
While in St. Joseph, Coach Swope also served as assistant football coach. He has held various football coaching positions such as varsity offensive line coach (11 years), varsity defensive line coach (6 years), special teams coordinator (1 year), and defensive coordinator (3 years).
Coach Swope is originally from St. Joseph, Missouri. He was a student-athlete and graduated from Missouri Western State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physical Education. He then finished his Master’s Degree in Educational Administration through William Woods University.
“My family and I are excited for the opportunity to join the great community of Weston,” Coach Swope said. “I look forward to building great relationships with West Platte staff, students, and the community. Go Blue Jays!”