With the 2018-2019 school year wrapping up this week, I wanted to share some final thoughts and highlight some moments from the past nine months. First, I would like to thank all our faculty and staff for their commitment each day to improving our student’s knowledge and creating an atmosphere that is positive. At the beginning of the year, we welcomed our new superintendent Dr. Chris Kell and several new teachers. Standards were set high and upon reflecting, our expectations were met and exceeded. Many of these expectations were met with the help of our community and the involvement within the school. We are lucky to be surrounded with the community we have!
Several guest speakers came into speak to our students including former state representative Mike Kelley and juvenile officer Jeremy Ruddick. Mr. Kelley spoke to our students about the impact of bullying and the definition of what bullying is. He had a personal story to share with our students to demonstrate how successful any of them could be, no matter what is said. Mr. Ruddick brought a message about E-Cigarettes and the negative health effects these products have. Many students believe this is a safe alternative from cigarettes, however the risks of these products are very detrimental to their development and health.
Academically, several students and organizations competed at the area, district, and state level. Our junior high students competed in an English contest against other students from southwest Missouri, FBLA students competed at the district and state contest, FCCLA participated at their district competition, our band was invited to play at the state capital during their art and music fest, FFA students traveled to the state and national convention, choir competed in area contests, and we hosted a district art show to name a few. Each year, our students become more involved and competitive in each event they participate in.
Athletically, our football team returned to playing an 11-man football schedule for the first time in four years. Volleyball, girls’ basketball, baseball, track and field, and boys’ basketball all enjoyed successful seasons and our softball team secured their first district title in the program’s existence. Several student-athletes were named to their respective all-state academic teams’, we had athletes named to all-district teams in every varsity sport, our baseball team being recognized as having one of the best G.P.A’s in the state, and several athletes qualifying to participate at the state track meet. This summer all our teams are hosting athletic camps, playing in summer leagues, and spending time in the weight room to increase their athleticism and development. If your child is interested in becoming involved in any of these extra-curricular activities, please contact the high school office for more information.
Along with graduations, induction ceremonies for various activities, and banquets, our high school hosted a job and career fair at the conclusion of the school year. We were able to have five speakers come into our building to discuss careers with our underclassmen and fifteen places of employment from the area to meet with our upperclassmen to practice interview skills or potentially fill job opportunities. A special thanks goes to all of those companies and individuals who participated.
With the help of many, each school year comes and goes. Our faculty and staff, along with the students, demonstrated their ability to work hard and we are looking forward to next year as we take all summer to plan and reflect on how to make the 2019-2020 school year more successful. As a school district, we wish all of you a happy summer and see you in August!