Principal's Message

Welcome to Pineville Junior High School!

With 27 years of experience in education, Mr. Yoist has dedicated his career to supporting students, staff, and communities. He earned an undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Louisiana at Monroe, a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Northwestern State University, and a Master’s +30 in Special Education from Southeastern Louisiana University.

Mr. Yoist’s career journey began in the classroom, where he spent 13 years as a Special Education and Social Studies teacher and athletic coach at West Feliciana High School, Tioga High School, and Tioga Junior High. He then transitioned into leadership roles, serving 5.5 years as Assistant Principal at Buckeye High School before becoming the principal of Pineville Junior High, where he has proudly "Made His Mark" for the past 8 years.

His leadership philosophy centers on empowering faculty, staff, and students by providing resources, guidance, and encouragement to foster success. “I believe people are more motivated to succeed when they feel empowered,” Mr. Yoist explains. His approach is grounded in the idea that the best leadership occurs when followers don’t realize they are being led—a principle that embodies his style of quietly yet effectively steering the school community toward success.

Throughout his career, Mr. Yoist has been recognized for his excellence in teaching and leadership. His accomplishments include being named Teacher of the Year in 2007-2008, VFW Teacher of the Year in 2008-2009, and the Louisiana Council for the Social Studies Outstanding Social Studies Teacher in 2010.

Under Mr. Yoist’s leadership, Pineville Junior High continues to thrive as a place where students are encouraged to grow academically, socially, and personally, while staff are supported in their professional growth and success.