School
Purdy students Shine at MSSU Media Showcase
Students taking classes in business technology, multimedia, and yearbook were invited to submit their work to the annual Southern Media Showcase hosted by Missouri Southern State University on April 16. This competition draws students from large schools all over Southwest Missouri, including Joplin, Webb City, Carthage and Nixa.
Michelle Hilburn: Reading recommendations for post-graduation
Graduation season is here, and as the parent of a senior, it’s not just a milestone for my son — it marks a transition for my husband and me as well.
Kyle Trouman: Commencement is personal in Barry County
For about 250 high school seniors, this month marks a grand transition.
Southwest grads say ‘aloha’ to high school
Colton Phillips, Southwest High School graduate, hugs his grandmother, Marsha Myers, during the flower presentation at Friday’s commencement ceremony.
Cassville students receive MAP awards for 2024 scores
Cassville Middle School student Bear Lackey receives a MAP testing proficiency award from Principal Samantha Cosper. The grades 6-8 school held an ice cream social on April 28 for students who earned advanced or proficient on their 2024 MAP testing.
Spring Vocal Concert delivers songs, smiles
Karma Kessinger, right, hugs Jenny Ortega after receiving her senior award at the end of the 2025 Spring Vocal Concert on April 15 at the performing arts center. Kyle Troutman/ktroutman@cassville-democrat.com
Cooking up a win
Purdy High School took home first place at Missouri State University’s annual Culinary Showdown on April 4, where students from across Missouri competed in a fast-paced culinary challenge that tested creativity, teamwork and technical skills.
Kid Kat, Middle School choirs sing for spring
Trinity Granger, left, and Elizabeth Whiteley, under direction of Katie Stockton, high school and middle school vocal music director and choreographer, perform “Beautiful Day/Best Day of My Life” at the Spring Vocal Concert on April 22.
3 years, one diploma
Exeter High School student Biaktha Hnem, daughter of Biak Cung and Biak Sung, has squeezed four years of instruction into a three-year career and will walk with the Class of 2025 during graduation ceremonies on May 16.
