Knob Noster Public Schools is pleased to announce the selection of Mr. Adam Peterson to lead the Knob Noster Football program as head coach, following a unanimous vote by the Board of Education at its January 21, 2026 meeting.
Peterson brings 15 years of experience in coaching football to the role. Peterson joined Knob Noster in 2022, serving as defensive coordinator and offensive line coach where he helped lead the Panthers to some of the program’s most successful seasons in recent decades. Coach Peterson will transition from his current role as Advanced Mathematics teacher at Knob Noster High School into the weights and conditioning program.
Prior to his time in Knob Noster, Coach Peterson spent five seasons at Missouri Valley College as the defensive backs coach and special teams coordinator. Before his time at Missouri Valley, he was part of the coaching staff at Kentucky Christian University, University of Central Missouri, and Bethel College in Kansas.
Superintendent Jerrod Wheeler shared, “We could not be more pleased to promote Coach Peterson into the head coaching role for our football program. Coach Peterson has played a pivotal role in the recent success our student athletes have achieved. He knows our players, he knows our program, and he is committed to continuous improvement in the years ahead. It has been nearly two decades since our football program has transitioned leadership in this manner, and this speaks to the culture that has been built among the coaching staff in the last four years. We send a special thank you to Coach Mike Franklin and wish him the very best in his next chapter. We look forward to all that Coach Peterson will bring to our students, the program, and the entire coaching staff as he steps into the head coaching role.”
Peterson earned his bachelor’s degree in math and physics from Wayne State College, a master’s degree in physics from University of Texas at Dallas and has completed additional graduate coursework at University of Central Missouri.
Coach Peterson and his wife Caitlin have three children: Jax, Brecklyn and Maci.
“I am honored and excited for this great opportunity. Coach Franklin is a cherished mentor and friend, and I am excited for him and his opportunity. I am committed to building on the foundation we have established for the past four years with integrity, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of excellence,” Peterson said. “Our focus will remain on developing young men of character on and off the field, competing at the highest level, and creating a culture that our players and community will be proud of.”