CLAFLIN — Following a special meeting early Friday morning, the USD 112 Board of Education approved extending a contract to Bobby Murphy effective July 1.

The board announced Murphy’s hiring Monday in a news release.

The district’s search for a new superintendent has been ongoing since October, when the board sought assistance from Kansas Association of School Boards Field Specialist Gary Sechrist with the application, screening and selection process. The board had accepted the resignation of Interim Superintendent Bill Lowry at its Sept. 11, 2023, meeting. Lowry’s contract as district superintendent and principal of Wilson Elementary School ends June 30. 

Murphy’s profile

Murphy comes to Central Plains from Sublette, where he has spent the past three years as Sublette Middle School/High School principal. Before his principal position at USD 374, he taught at the elementary school and middle school at USD 483 Southwestern Heights.

During that time, Murphy coached multiple sports and assisted in leading activities in the community.

Murphy said he looks forward to building relationships with students, teachers and community members as he integrates with the USD 112 school district.

Murphy’s wife Jess has spent the past three years as guidance counselor at Sublette. Before that, she spent 10 years as a fourth grade teacher.

Their two sons, Kasen (fifth grade) and Holden (first grade) are also involved in multiple sports, including football, basketball and baseball.

The Murphy family will be relocating to the area during the summer.