School
Michelle Hilburn: Realizing the importance of science of reading strategies
As I enter my 19th year in education, I have experienced a number of shifts in the profession which include new strategies, new requirements, and new evidence to study. The most recent literacy education approach adapts learning strategies to align to the science of reading.
Community painting Portrait of a Graduate
Program aims to improve student outcomes in schools A collaborative effort between five Barry County school districts is attempting to improve student outcomes, and the project is asking for the community’s help. Traci Mitchell, Cassville assistant superintendent, said the Portrait of a Graduate (POG) work, which ties to district improvement plans and has been shown to improve student outcomes, reflects the county’s agreed upon competencies necessary for students to be effective and successful mem- bers of the community.
A sight to be ‘scene’
Northbound drivers on Main Street in Cassville have a new scene to sight as they travel into downtown Cassville. The Cassville Area Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the completion of a vibrant new mural that now adorns the south side of the Cassville Democrat building.
Home school co-op celebrates first semester
The SHINE Ozarks Co-op held its open house and end of semester celebration on May 21st. The group, comprised of mainly Barry County residents, has 25 families enrolled and held its first semester in the spring. Five local homeschool mothers started the co-op to give families the opportunity for community while homeschooling. The group thanks First Baptist Church in Cassville and Washburn First Baptist Church for facility use. Interested families can find the co-op on Facebook at SHINE Ozarks Co-op Information or email ShineOzarks@gmail.com.
Merlyn Johnson: Unsung heroes at Cassville schools
During the summer months, we celebrate the accomplishments of another successful year while simultaneously beginning to prepare for the next school year. Before we completely close-out this school year, I want to take a moment to express my appreciation for the hardworking and dedicated members of our transportation, maintenance, custodial, and food service departments for supporting all of our district accomplishments over the past 12 months.
Summer school soaked in fun
From left, Samantha Adams, Laura Horton, Sianna Vargas Revolorio and Jeremiah Blankenship jump in the pool together during pool day at Cassville Summer School on Friday.
3 Southwest seniors awarded Hagan Scholarship
Three Southwest High School Class of 2024 graduates will avoid student debt in coming years, as each has been awarded the Hagan Scholarship, worth up to $60,000 over four years. Scholarships were awarded to Lilly Wolf, who is planning to attend the University of Idaho to study Wildlife Resource Management; Faith Outhouse, who is planning to attend Missouri State University to study Nursing; and Kameron Kelley, who is planning to attend Drury University to study Architecture.
Fastest Wildcats named
Cassville Primary and Intermediate held their annual Sports Day on May 7. After a fun day of various field events, races and water activities, students competed to earn the title of “Fastest Wildcat.” Primary winners, from left: Evan Bowman, Reese Artherton, PJ Boyle, Ren Hodge, Brynn Weldy and Riley Hayward.
Drake Thomas: Rules in summer aren’t a bummer; the beauty of keeping a schedule during off seasons
Reading that title may give you pause. Summer is a time for respite, rejuvenation — and most importantly, no alarms — right? Why in the world would anyone want to keep their rigid normal schedule when the days are longer, and cookouts, ball games and pool parties seem to jump out from every direction? It is difficult to convince little minds that it is bedtime when the sun sits low and fat on the horizon boasting perfect playing light, before disappearing completely and giving the stage to twinkling fireflies that hover at the perfect height to be cupped and observed by tiny hands.
Kyle Troutman: It’s the inside that counts
On the south end of Cassville High School, the Performing Arts Center has taken its shape. The building, an impressive 36,025 square feet, is completely dried-in, meaning all exterior construction is complete and no precipitation will enter the building.
