School

Lueckenhoff serving as new SPO
The Cassville school district has added an additional layer of safety with the addition of John Lueckenhoff serving as the district’s School Protection Officer (SPO).

Community Voices — Merlyn Johnson: State should do its part
I have worked in public education for 30 years, including 17 years as a superintendent, and I cannot remember a time when Missouri’s education community has been more concerned about the direction of public school funding.

Wheaton Class of ‘76 celebrates 50th
Wheaton's Class of 1976 had their class reunion on Sept. 5.

1961 Purdy grads gather for 65th reunion
The Purdy High School class of 1961 recently met for their 65th reunion.

Community Voices — Merlyn Johnson: New grading system coming to Missouri
Missouri is moving forward with a new A-F School and District Grading Framework designed to give parents and the public a simplified picture of academic performance.

Having a grand time!
Cassville second-grader Hadley Crain, left, smiles at her grandparents, Shelly Ickes, middle, and Daryl Ickes, of Washburn, after the trio completed a word search activity during Grandparents Day.

Purdy school board reviews tax levy, repairs
Purdy school board members completed preparations for the new school year, including a review of troublesome facility issues, at its Aug. 13 meeting.

New ‘Cats, old ‘Cats back in class
Cassville senior Kamden Beebe launches himself onto an air mattress during a relay race at the back-to-school assembly at Cassville High School on Aug. 25.

7 join Southwest staff
The Southwest school district has seven new staffers for the 2026-2027 school year.

Publisher’s View — Kyle Troutman: Memories incoming
Beyond the weeks of school supply and clothes shopping, making sure all needs are met before school begins, there is always one event that signals the first day of a new year is just around the corner.



