With the new school year coming up, many local schools are introducing their new staff – including the Hardin-Central (H-C) School District. Having served as H-C Superintendent since July 1, Oak Grove native Austin Purvis has been in the district for eight years as the elementary school principal. “I was wanting to increase my knowledge of the district and how I could be a greater asset to the district, families and students. It seemed like a logical step to make so I could be of service to others,” he said. Purvis received his undergraduate degree from Graceland University, master’s degree from Central-Missouri University and superintendency from Northwest Missouri State. Purvis started his teachings in Raytown School District as a first-grade teacher and an assistant principal from 2009-2015 and was H-C elementary school principal from 2015-2023. Purvis’ favorite part about the school district is the students and supportive families, he noted. “With my time here, I have had the…