The Purdy school district announced the hiring of two professionals on May 21, both of which have 32 years of experience in education.

A lifelong athlete, Stephanie Heman made her name at Joplin High School, graduating in 1987 and going on to play basketball and volleyball for Pittsburg State University, where she graduated in 1991 with her Bachelor’s in Education. Eager to further her knowledge and expertise, she continued to collect degrees over the course of her career, such as a Master’s in Education as well as Educational Administration.

Her coaching career saw her lead teams in volleyball for sixteen years, basketball for twelve years, and softball for three years.

“I’m thrilled and deeply honored to have the opportunity to teach and coach at Purdy, a school with such a rich tradition in athletics,” Heman said. “Sports have always been a passion of mine and I hope to pass that love along.”

Brad Stewart has been a head basketball coach for 34 years, the last 31 of those spent at Verona High School, which is only a short drive from Purdy. Boasting a whopping 511 career wins and an undefeated state championship team in 2003, Stewart has no shortage of previous successes and is hungry for more. Having coached six players move on to college basketball careers, his arrival promises ample opportunity for Purdy’s strong boys basketball program.

“Purdy has a great sports tradition that I am excited to be part of,” he said.

Heman will serve as the head girls basketball coach, with Stewart as head boys basketball coach for the 2024-2025 academic year.

“This new era of Purdy basketball is sure to bring exciting new developments and successes,” said Jennifer Cornelius, athletic director and assistant principal. “Purdy schools is excited for the 24-25 basketball season. The fact that these new hires are not only top-notch coaches but also top-notch educators is a testament to what makes Purdy a special place to be. These two candidates will continue to grow the rich traditions that athletics has at Purdy.”