Harper has spent all 27 years of his career working as an English language arts teacher at Mehlville High School. In 2024, he was named the Mehlville School District Teacher of the Year and a Missouri Regional Teacher of the Year.

In addition to his work in the classroom, Harper spent 17 years as the head boys soccer coach, tallying 7 district championships, 7 trips to the state quarterfinals, and one appearance in the final four. He has also coached the girls soccer and basketball teams.

“Mr. Harper is a true lifelong Panther, having attended Mehlville High School as a student and spending nearly three decades in MHS classrooms,” Dr. Haug said. “His passion for Mehlville High School will be instrumental in ensuring students excel in clubs, activities and sports in this new role.”

Harper is a Mehlville High School alum. He has a Bachelor of Science in Education from University of Missouri-St. Louis and a Master of Arts in Educational Administration from Lindenwood University.

“I am truly honored to step into this new role at Mehlville High School, especially as an alumnus of this district,” Harper said. “After 27 years of teaching and coaching, my passion for supporting our students’ growth both on the field and in their extracurricular pursuits has only grown stronger.”

Harper will begin serving in this new role on July 1, 2026. He is replacing Dr. Tim Champion, who is retiring at the end of the 2025-2026 school year.