School
Reading innovation drives Purdy success
Program in third year boosting student achievement
Hall retiring from Southwest after 45 years
Southwest Elementary School Secretary Debbie Hall is retiring this year after 45 years of service to Southwest school district. She started working in the elementary cafeteria when her own children were in elementary school, later moving into the position of elementary secretary. Hall has watched many children go through Southwest Elementary School. She has seen them become parents and grandparents to the students currently attending Southwest schools. She has taken great pride in knowing the families and loving them without judgement or criticism. “Hall has been a priceless asset to the school and will be truly missed,” a school press release said. “Her presence in the community will be known forever.” People may visit the school to take a picture with Hall, share a memory or wish her a happy retirement between now and the end of summer school. Cards may be mailed to: Debbie Hall, 529 E. Pineville Rd., Washburn, MO 65772. Contributed photo
Big win in the Big 8
The Cassville art program celebrated a massive victory recently, sweeping the Big 8 Art Show's Best in Show awards and winning a total of 77 awards in the competition.
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
