Assistant principal and athletic director Ricky Hammer has been hired as the new Purcell High School principal.

And junior high assistant principal Daniel “Rowdy” Cole has been elevated to principal of that building.

The hires were made official at the board of education meeting Monday night.

A familiar face within the district, Hammer transitions into this leadership role following his tenure as the school’s assistant principal and athletic director.

Hammer’s deep roots in the community and his firsthand experience with the student body make him uniquely qualified to lead the “Home of the Dragons” into its next chapter. During his time in administration and athletics, he has been a vocal advocate for student growth, both in competitive arenas and in academic excellence.

“Transitioning into the principal role isn’t just a career step for me, it’s an opportunity to serve a community I truly care about,” Hammer said. “We have a unique spirit here in Purcell—a blend of tradition, grit and heart that you just don’t find everywhere else.”

A Commitment to Continuity and Excellence

In a formal letter addressed to the students, families and the Purcell community, Hammer emphasized that while his title has changed, his dedication to the town remains steadfast. He highlighted his excitement to channel the “new energy” of this transition into tangible results for student futures.

Key priorities for the new administration include:

•Strengthening Community Bonds: Fostering a “team-first” mentality between the school and local families.

Supporting Student Growth: Continuing to watch students excel as they transition into adulthood.

Honoring Tradition: Maintaining the “Grit and Heart” that defines Purcell High School.

“A school is only as strong as the community that supports it,” Hammer added. “I am so incredibly excited for us to navigate this transition as a team. Let’s make this next chapter the best one yet. Go Dragons!”

Cole will formally assume his leadership role in July.

He joined the Dragon family in July 2025 and has quickly become an integral part of the junior high administration.

His appointment ensures a seamless transition of leadership, allowing the school to maintain its current momentum in academic achievement and school culture,” Superintendent Dr. Sheli McAdoo said.

Cole brings a unique blend of educational expertise and private-sector leadership to the position.

He began his career in 1993 in the Moore School District, where he taught history and coached.

After a 15-year tenure in the corporate world—specializing in staffing, recruiting and sales—he followed a calling to return to his roots in education in 2020, subsequently earning a Master’s in Educational Leadership.

“I am truly humbled and blessed to be selected for this position,” Cole said.

“Ms. Testa is leaving the junior high with a solid foundation of leadership and impressive growth in state test scores.

“I am excited to continue this upward trajectory and look forward to identifying new areas where we can innovate and improve for our students,” he continued.

When he isn’t roaming the halls of the junior high or cheering on the Dragons at local athletic events, Cole is a dedicated family man.

He and his wife of 13 years, Sonya, share a busy house hold featuring six children, five grandchildren, and a small menagerie of pets, including two Golden Retrievers and four cats.

The Coles are avid travelers who enjoy retreating to their family cabin in Northern New Mexico or visiting family in Florida.

The district looks forward to the “Rowdy” Cole era at Purcell junior high, focusing on:

•Sustaining Academic Growth: Building upon the recent successes in state testing. 

•Leadership Continuity: Utilizing his current role as assistant principal to ensure a smooth handoff in July.

•Community Engagement: Bringing his background in recruiting and sales to foster strong relationships with Purcell families.