Jason Parsons was born in Peoria, Illinois, and graduated from Canton High School in 1994. He attended Spoon River College, where he studied art and education, before earning a Bachelor’s in Education, a Master’s in Instructional Technology, and a Master’s in Educational Leadership—all from Western Illinois University.
Jason spent 12 years teaching art and graphic design and another 14 years as a K–12 administrator, all within the Canton CUSD #66 district. In 2007, he was honored as Canton High School’s Teacher of the Year. As curriculum director, he helped launch several innovative programs, including Lego Education, the Dual Credit Running Start program, and Project Lead the Way courses in biomedical science, engineering, and computer science.
Today, Jason is the owner and operator of Snowman’s Reindeer Farm, which he has run for the past two years, and he also serves as the part-time principal at Canton Royals Alternative School.
His commitment to the community runs deep—he helped found the Canton High School Archery and Trapshooting programs, served as head Trapshooting coach for six years, led local Canada canoe trips for 21 years, coached numerous youth teams, and was a dedicated Boy Scout troop leader.
One of Jason’s lifelong goals is “to continue growing as a successful business owner within our community, creating opportunities to provide visitors with a magical and educational experience at our reindeer farm.”
Jason is married to Dawn and has three children: Mady, Carter, and Jaycee.
