School
Purdy school board studies facility needs
The Purdy school board reviewed pressing facilities needs and updates on operations at its September meeting.

JAG learns trees at Community Garden
The Barry County Community Garden hosted 20 youth in the Cassville High School Jobs for America’s Graduates program. Master Gardener Skip Easter gave a demonstration on fall tree planting and an overview of what a forester does as a job.

Cassville Wildcat Pride wins at Pitt State Homecoming Parade
The Cassville Wildcat Pride Marching Band kicked off its competitive season with a resounding victory at the Pittsburg State University Homecoming Parade held on Oct. 11.

Cassville Middle School teacher receives grant
Cassville Middle School (CMS) agriculture teacher, Mrs. McKenzie Brashers, has been awarded a $500 grant from the Missouri Retired Teachers Association and Foundation (MRTA). The grant is one of only 84 funded out of 595 applications statewide.

Cassville teacher recognized by MOSHAPE organization
The Cassville school district has announced that Cassville High School Teacher Erin Flehmer has been selected as the 2025 Physical Education Teacher of the Year for the Southwest District by the Missouri Society of Health and Physical Educators (MOSHAPE).

Merlyn Johnson: Smooth start to school year
As we settle into the 2025–2026 academic year, I am pleased to report that the school year is off to a smooth and positive start across all of our Cassville R-IV campuses.

Book Fair bustles on Grandparents Night
Gayla Hughes-Wiggins, of Colcord, Okla., otherwise known as Lolli, helps her granddaughter, Brielle Carter, 5, pick out a new book at the Book Fair during Grandparents Night on Sept. 9 at Cassville schools. Kyle Troutman/ktroutman@cassville-democrat.com
5 get CFO scholarships
Five graduates of Barry County high schools have received scholarships administered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks.

CHS music program shares sound accomplishments
Multiple band members, vocalists recognized
Purdy school board focuses on preparation
The Purdy school board reviewed developing programs and preparations for the opening of school during the August meeting.



