School
Hunting big plays, sparks on the gridiron
A mix of returners and newcomers will line up at various special teams positions for Cassville this year, including an All-Conference punter and two new soccer players looking to make a mark on the gridiron. Clay Weldy, Cassville football coach, said punting duties will mostly be in the hands of quarterback Bodee Rose, who utilizes a rugby style punting method to maximize offensive possibilities.

Drake Thomas: ‘So, God Made A Teacher’
And on the 8th day, God looked at those made in his image and said, “I need a caretaker.” So, God made a teacher. God said, “I need someone willing to get up before dawn, collect last night’s grading, kiss their family goodbye, teach all day at school, bring home more grading, eat supper, then go back to school and stay until 9 to watch a student’s basketball game.

25 new hires at Cassville schools
The Cassville school district welcomes the following new certified staff to the district for the 2024-25 school year.

Lady Eagles settling into youthful season
The Purdy volleyball team may be the youngest Coach Barry Wheeler has had throughout his 38-year career, and it will rely on four returners among five freshmen to reach its goals this season. Leading the squad this year are three seniors — setter Zoey Webb, middle hitter Gracie Patton and defensive specialist Brooklynn Bunch — as well as a junior, outside hitter Lauren Brooks.
Southwest to host volleyball jamboree Tuesday
Southwest High School will host a volleyball jamboree featuring four area teams on Tuesday in Washburn. Along with Southwest, Hurley, Purdy and Wheaton will be participating.
Cassville back to school info released
Calendar, enrollment, ParentSquare, schedule info given The Cassville school district has released information for parents and guardians regarding the upcoming school year. The first day of school for students is Tuesday, August 20.

Michelle Hilburn: Librarians are on the front lines of literacy
The school year is quickly approaching, which means children are enjoying their last days of summertime and parents are preparing to send them back to school. As a school librarian, this is a very busy time of year, and I have already returned to work.
15 total Southwest grads have fully-funded educations
Six individuals from the 2024 Southwest High School graduates have received coveted grants and scholarships to continue their education fully paid for, joining nine of their peers in having their continued education fully funded.

Merlyn Johnson: Anticipation building for new school year
The 2024-2025 school year will begin on Tuesday, August 20. We are excited to welcome our students and staff back for another great year at Cassville R-IV School District.

Supplying supplies!
Remi Dunfee, 9, of Cassville, volunteered her time on Saturday to help with Cassville schools’ “Stuff the Bus” event at Walmart.