Hatfield Named Transportation Director

The Board of Education, at the May 21 meeting, approved the hire of Tony Hatfield as the Director of Transportation. Hatfield comes to Ozark with 34 years of experience in school transportation. 

“I am incredibly honored to join the Ozark School District family and lead our exceptional transportation team,” Hatfield said. “My career has been built on a ‘safety-first’ foundation, and after 30 years in the shop and in administration, my goal remains the same: Ensuring every student has the safest, most reliable ride possible every single day. I am eager to get to work and look forward to the great things we will accomplish together.” 

Hatfield has worked as a director of transportation at three school districts since 2001, currently working in the Camdenton School District since 2021. In Camdenton, he manages 58 routes, daily shuttle buses, as well as buses for after-school programs, early childhood, special education and trips for athletics and activities. In contrast, Ozark has 47 routes and runs daily shuttles between the OIC and OHS. 

Hatfield has also been active, including serving two years as president, on the Missouri Association of Pupil Transportation. 

Executive Director of Operations Richie Fretwell said Hatfield will be a welcome addition to the Ozark team.

“Tony brings a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective to this role, making him an incredible asset to our district,” Fretwell said. “We are eager to watch the Transportation Department grow and improve under his leadership as we continue to provide the best possible service for our students and community.”

Hatfield will start his position July 1. Austin Mitchum has also been promoted to Transportation Supervisor effective immediately.