This week (May 1-5) is Teacher Appreciation Week. On behalf of the Board of Education and administration at Cassville R-IV School District, I would like to express my deep gratitude to our educators for the work they do each day to ensure the success of all our students.

The opening words of the Bible “In the beginning…” (Genesis 1:1) introduce a work in progress.

I couldn’t help falling in love at Barn at Bear Ridge on Saturday. The Purdy Prom Committee brough Elvis to shake, rattle and roll the scene. Attendees wearing their blue suede shoes had a little less conversation when the King took the stage. Elvis preached a don’t be cruel message, so no one was left crying in the chapel, and that’s all right. It was a unique Prom experience, one that will remain always on my mind as I go to other proms. Kudos to the Purdy kids for creating unique memories!

I have finally made it to my final quarter before graduation with my Bachelor’s Degree. I have also been revisiting a series of stories I wrote back in 2021 about Celebrate Recovery and where those people are now in their journey.

I’m surrendering a chunk of space this week in my column to someone with a message that is more significant than anything I had on my mind today. Susej Burks Thompson, my youth group leader when I was a teenager, posted some of her thoughts Monday night on faith, prayer and our relationships with God or any other higher power.

“Stop hurting each other” was all I could get out as I looked at the congregation.

I left the river on Thursday to attend part of the Missouri State School Board meeting at Emory Melton Inn. They don’t put fish on the agenda, but I have an item for the board on behalf of students. Bring back sodas and energy drinks! I’ve had many students promise they’ll behave better if you give back “my precious Red Bull.” There’s also a potential for behavior improvement — at least the kids won’t be tired or asleep!  

It’s not every day we have the state’s leaders in our backyard. That was the case on Thursday as the entire State Board of Education, the commissioner of education and multiple staffers, 21 in total, met with Cassville’s superintendent and assistant superintendent, as well as multiple school board members.

I would like to talk to you about seed. As we enter springtime and begin to plant our gardens this year, I find it most convenient to sow some seed here.