De Soto #73 School District
610 Vineland School Road De Soto, MO 63020
Reminder: Board of Education Meeting
Our Board of Education will be meeting on Tuesday, April 14, 2026. These meetings are a great opportunity to stay informed about what's happening in our district and hear important updates that impact our students, staff, and community.
Location: 610 Vineland School Rd.
Time: 6:00 PM
Everyone is welcome to attend! We value your input and look forward to seeing you there.
Big congratulations to our De Soto High School Choir students!
We are proud to share that our talented DHS choir has won a radio contest and will have the incredible opportunity to sing with the band Foreigner this August!
This is an amazing accomplishment and a true reflection of their hard work, dedication, and talent.
A huge THANK YOU to everyone who took the time to vote and support our students—we couldn’t have done it without you!
We are proud to share that our talented DHS choir has won a radio contest and will have the incredible opportunity to sing with the band Foreigner this August!
This is an amazing accomplishment and a true reflection of their hard work, dedication, and talent.
A huge THANK YOU to everyone who took the time to vote and support our students—we couldn’t have done it without you!
Annual Student Information Renewal is Now Open
Each spring, all families are asked to complete the Annual Student Information Renewal (Registration) in Infinite Campus to help us prepare for the 2026–2027 school year. Even though this information is for next school year, it must be completed now so we can accurately plan schedules, transportation, staffing, and student services.
Deadline: May 1
We strongly encourage families to complete this as soon as possible.
Why this matters?
Your timely completion helps the district:
• Build accurate class schedules for 2026–2027
• Create bus routes and transportation plans
• Keep health and emergency information current
• Ensure you continue receiving important school messages
If not completed by May 1, families may experience:
• Delays in receiving student schedules
• Delays or changes in bus assignments
• Temporary loss of access to the Infinite Campus Parent Portal
• Suspension of student Google accounts at the end of the 2025–2026 school year (until completed)
How to complete your renewal:
- Log in to your Infinite Campus Parent Portal
- Select “More” from the menu
- Click “Annual Student Information Renewal”
- Review, update, and submit your student’s information
If you need help logging in or have questions, please contact your student’s building office — they’re happy to help.
Thank you for partnering with us to ensure a smooth and successful start to the 2026–2027 school year for every student!
Each spring, all families are asked to complete the Annual Student Information Renewal (Registration) in Infinite Campus to help us prepare for the 2026–2027 school year. Even though this information is for next school year, it must be completed now so we can accurately plan schedules, transportation, staffing, and student services.
Deadline: May 1
We strongly encourage families to complete this as soon as possible.
Why this matters?
Your timely completion helps the district:
• Build accurate class schedules for 2026–2027
• Create bus routes and transportation plans
• Keep health and emergency information current
• Ensure you continue receiving important school messages
If not completed by May 1, families may experience:
• Delays in receiving student schedules
• Delays or changes in bus assignments
• Temporary loss of access to the Infinite Campus Parent Portal
• Suspension of student Google accounts at the end of the 2025–2026 school year (until completed)
How to complete your renewal:
- Log in to your Infinite Campus Parent Portal
- Select “More” from the menu
- Click “Annual Student Information Renewal”
- Review, update, and submit your student’s information
If you need help logging in or have questions, please contact your student’s building office — they’re happy to help.
Thank you for partnering with us to ensure a smooth and successful start to the 2026–2027 school year for every student!
Please join us in welcoming Miss Riley Stephenson to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year!
Position/Title:
3rd Grade Teacher
Building:
De Soto Intermediate (Vineland)
Previous Experience:
Miss Stephenson completed her student teaching and worked as a substitute teacher in the Warrensburg School District. She also gained valuable experience working at a daycare while in college.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby:
She danced in college on a nationally ranked dance team! In her free time, she enjoys painting, cross-stitching, reading, and spending time with her family.
What She’s Excited About:
Miss Stephenson is beyond excited to begin her teaching journey and is looking forward to building relationships with her students while supporting their learning and growth.
We’re excited to have Miss Stephenson join our team and can’t wait for the positive impact she’ll make with our students and families. Please help us give her a warm Dragon welcome!
Position/Title:
3rd Grade Teacher
Building:
De Soto Intermediate (Vineland)
Previous Experience:
Miss Stephenson completed her student teaching and worked as a substitute teacher in the Warrensburg School District. She also gained valuable experience working at a daycare while in college.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby:
She danced in college on a nationally ranked dance team! In her free time, she enjoys painting, cross-stitching, reading, and spending time with her family.
What She’s Excited About:
Miss Stephenson is beyond excited to begin her teaching journey and is looking forward to building relationships with her students while supporting their learning and growth.
We’re excited to have Miss Stephenson join our team and can’t wait for the positive impact she’ll make with our students and families. Please help us give her a warm Dragon welcome!
We hope everyone had a relaxing and enjoyable Spring Break!
This is a friendly reminder that school resumes tomorrow—we are excited to welcome our students back and finish the school year strong!
Also, the Annual Student Information Renewal (Registration) in Infinite Campus will open tomorrow, Tuesday, April 7. Completing this process helps ensure we have the most up-to-date information for your student as we prepare for the upcoming school year.
We look forward to seeing everyone back tomorrow!
This is a friendly reminder that school resumes tomorrow—we are excited to welcome our students back and finish the school year strong!
Also, the Annual Student Information Renewal (Registration) in Infinite Campus will open tomorrow, Tuesday, April 7. Completing this process helps ensure we have the most up-to-date information for your student as we prepare for the upcoming school year.
We look forward to seeing everyone back tomorrow!
At the March Board of Education meeting, we proudly recognized several of our Board of Education members for earning advanced certifications through the Missouri School Boards’ Association (MSBA)
These achievements reflect a strong commitment to professional growth, effective governance, and continued dedication to serving the students, staff, and community of the De Soto School District.
Board Member Recognitions
• Trish Coleman — Master Board Member Certification (not pictured)
• Beverly Wilson — Distinguished Board Member Certification
• Mark Ferrell — Master Board Member Certification
• Kari Brooks — Advanced Board Member Certification
• Jonathan Cook — Advanced Board Member Certification (not pictured)
• Michael Golightly — Master Board Member Certification
These certifications require significant time, training, and ongoing professional learning focused on strengthening leadership, policy understanding, and governance in public education.
We are grateful for the dedication these individuals have shown in continuously growing to better serve our district and community.
These achievements reflect a strong commitment to professional growth, effective governance, and continued dedication to serving the students, staff, and community of the De Soto School District.
Board Member Recognitions
• Trish Coleman — Master Board Member Certification (not pictured)
• Beverly Wilson — Distinguished Board Member Certification
• Mark Ferrell — Master Board Member Certification
• Kari Brooks — Advanced Board Member Certification
• Jonathan Cook — Advanced Board Member Certification (not pictured)
• Michael Golightly — Master Board Member Certification
These certifications require significant time, training, and ongoing professional learning focused on strengthening leadership, policy understanding, and governance in public education.
We are grateful for the dedication these individuals have shown in continuously growing to better serve our district and community.
At the March Board of Education meeting, De Soto Middle School proudly recognized an outstanding staff member and two exceptional students
Staff Recognition
De Soto Middle School would like to recognize Kerri Lawson for the incredible work she does for both students and staff. As the leader of our Character Council Program, Kerri creates meaningful opportunities throughout the year—from monthly luncheons and Career Day to assemblies and student socials.
Beyond that, she plays a vital role in supporting staff and building a positive culture throughout the school. Her willingness to step in, help others, and lead with heart truly defines what it means to be a team player. We are incredibly fortunate to have her at DMS!
Student Recognition
We would also like to recognize Chris C. and Aleah J. for their outstanding achievements. Selected by Choir Director Mr. Harris, they auditioned for the De Soto High School production of High School Musical—going through the same process and expectations as high school students.
Their dedication, professionalism, and talent set them apart. By fully committing to rehearsals and performances, they represented De Soto Middle School with pride and showed just how capable our students are.
Congratulations, Chris and Aleah—you made DMS proud!
Staff Recognition
De Soto Middle School would like to recognize Kerri Lawson for the incredible work she does for both students and staff. As the leader of our Character Council Program, Kerri creates meaningful opportunities throughout the year—from monthly luncheons and Career Day to assemblies and student socials.
Beyond that, she plays a vital role in supporting staff and building a positive culture throughout the school. Her willingness to step in, help others, and lead with heart truly defines what it means to be a team player. We are incredibly fortunate to have her at DMS!
Student Recognition
We would also like to recognize Chris C. and Aleah J. for their outstanding achievements. Selected by Choir Director Mr. Harris, they auditioned for the De Soto High School production of High School Musical—going through the same process and expectations as high school students.
Their dedication, professionalism, and talent set them apart. By fully committing to rehearsals and performances, they represented De Soto Middle School with pride and showed just how capable our students are.
Congratulations, Chris and Aleah—you made DMS proud!
Please join us in welcoming Miss DiMercurio to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year!
Position/Title:
Kindergarten Teacher
Building:
De Soto Primary (Athena)
Previous Experience:
Miss DiMercurio served as a paraprofessional at Ste. Genevieve Elementary for the past two years, where she gained valuable experience supporting students and staff.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby:
She enjoys working out, being outdoors, and spending time with her family and friends.
Miss DiMercurio is excited to be part of the Dragon family and is looking forward to meeting her future kindergarten students, as well as the faculty and staff.
We’re excited to have Miss DiMercurio join our team and can’t wait for the positive impact she’ll make with our students and families. Please help us give her a warm Dragon welcome!
Position/Title:
Kindergarten Teacher
Building:
De Soto Primary (Athena)
Previous Experience:
Miss DiMercurio served as a paraprofessional at Ste. Genevieve Elementary for the past two years, where she gained valuable experience supporting students and staff.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby:
She enjoys working out, being outdoors, and spending time with her family and friends.
Miss DiMercurio is excited to be part of the Dragon family and is looking forward to meeting her future kindergarten students, as well as the faculty and staff.
We’re excited to have Miss DiMercurio join our team and can’t wait for the positive impact she’ll make with our students and families. Please help us give her a warm Dragon welcome!
Today we celebrate the incredible paraprofessionals who make a difference in our schools each and every day!
Your dedication, patience, and compassion help support our students in ways that truly matter. Whether you’re providing one-on-one support, assisting in the classroom, or building meaningful connections, your impact does not go unnoticed.
Thank you for the care, commitment, and positivity you bring to our district. We are so grateful for all that you do for our students, staff, and school community.
Happy Paraprofessional Day!
Your dedication, patience, and compassion help support our students in ways that truly matter. Whether you’re providing one-on-one support, assisting in the classroom, or building meaningful connections, your impact does not go unnoticed.
Thank you for the care, commitment, and positivity you bring to our district. We are so grateful for all that you do for our students, staff, and school community.
Happy Paraprofessional Day!
At the March Board of Education meeting, Vineland Elementary proudly recognized students and staff for their outstanding efforts in the Kids Heart Challenge
Top Fundraisers
• Lillie H. – $1,027.61 raised
• Deckland B. – $633.23 raised
• Kahlan R. – $464.39 raised
Thank you for your hard work, dedication, and commitment to supporting heart health. Your efforts are making a difference!
Staff Recognition
Vineland would also like to recognize Amanda Pruitt for her incredible dedication to the Kids Heart Challenge/Jump Rope for Heart program. For 20 years, she has led this fundraiser with passion and care—making a lasting impact on our students and community.
We are proud of our Dragons for leading with heart!
Top Fundraisers
• Lillie H. – $1,027.61 raised
• Deckland B. – $633.23 raised
• Kahlan R. – $464.39 raised
Thank you for your hard work, dedication, and commitment to supporting heart health. Your efforts are making a difference!
Staff Recognition
Vineland would also like to recognize Amanda Pruitt for her incredible dedication to the Kids Heart Challenge/Jump Rope for Heart program. For 20 years, she has led this fundraiser with passion and care—making a lasting impact on our students and community.
We are proud of our Dragons for leading with heart!
Please join us in welcoming Ms. Mattelyn Edwards to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year! 🐉
Position/Title:
Kindergarten Teacher
Building:
De Soto Primary (Athena)
Previous Experience:
Ms. Edwards recently completed her student teaching in second grade at Festus Elementary School. She also brings experience tutoring a first grade student during her time at Lindenwood University and has served as a substitute teacher for the past year and a half, primarily working with students in grades K–3.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby:
Outside of the classroom, Ms. Edwards enjoys spending time with family and friends, as well as her two dogs, Maggie and Allie. She loves reading, traveling, and being outdoors—whether that’s playing pickleball, hiking, or going for walks. She’s also a big movie fan and has watched all of the Disney Pixar films!
Ms. Edwards is excited to begin her teaching career in kindergarten and is passionate about helping students discover a love for learning. She’s looking forward to growing alongside both students and staff in the De Soto community.
We’re excited to have Ms. Edwards join our team and can’t wait for the positive impact she’ll make with our students and families. Please help us give her a warm Dragon welcome!
Position/Title:
Kindergarten Teacher
Building:
De Soto Primary (Athena)
Previous Experience:
Ms. Edwards recently completed her student teaching in second grade at Festus Elementary School. She also brings experience tutoring a first grade student during her time at Lindenwood University and has served as a substitute teacher for the past year and a half, primarily working with students in grades K–3.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby:
Outside of the classroom, Ms. Edwards enjoys spending time with family and friends, as well as her two dogs, Maggie and Allie. She loves reading, traveling, and being outdoors—whether that’s playing pickleball, hiking, or going for walks. She’s also a big movie fan and has watched all of the Disney Pixar films!
Ms. Edwards is excited to begin her teaching career in kindergarten and is passionate about helping students discover a love for learning. She’s looking forward to growing alongside both students and staff in the De Soto community.
We’re excited to have Ms. Edwards join our team and can’t wait for the positive impact she’ll make with our students and families. Please help us give her a warm Dragon welcome!
Students in Mrs. Burke’s Advanced English 9 class recently brought history to life in a powerful and meaningful way.
As part of their learning, students researched a Righteous Gentile—a non-Jewish individual who risked their life to save Jews during World War II. Through their work, students discovered that these heroes shared remarkable qualities like bravery, compassion, creativity, and selflessness.
Using recyclable materials, each student designed and built a monument to honor their chosen individual. They then combined their research and creativity into a written piece that paid tribute to their World War II hero.
To wrap up the project, students had the opportunity to present their work to members of the Board of Education and district leadership. They truly enjoyed sharing their learning with an authentic audience—and it showed!
We are incredibly proud of these students for their thoughtful work, creativity, and dedication to honoring history in such a meaningful way.
As part of their learning, students researched a Righteous Gentile—a non-Jewish individual who risked their life to save Jews during World War II. Through their work, students discovered that these heroes shared remarkable qualities like bravery, compassion, creativity, and selflessness.
Using recyclable materials, each student designed and built a monument to honor their chosen individual. They then combined their research and creativity into a written piece that paid tribute to their World War II hero.
To wrap up the project, students had the opportunity to present their work to members of the Board of Education and district leadership. They truly enjoyed sharing their learning with an authentic audience—and it showed!
We are incredibly proud of these students for their thoughtful work, creativity, and dedication to honoring history in such a meaningful way.
At the March Board of Education meeting, De Soto High School proudly recognized our state wrestlers for their outstanding accomplishments this season.
Congratulations to:
Brenton D. – 3rd place, 126-pound weight class
Levi H. – 3rd place, 175-pound weight class
Milayna D. – 4th place, 100-pound weight class
Cheyenne K. – 4th place, 110-pound weight class
We also want to recognize Coach John Brown for his leadership and dedication to our wrestling program.
We are proud of these student-athletes for their hard work, determination, and the way they represented De Soto High School on the state stage.
Congratulations to:
Brenton D. – 3rd place, 126-pound weight class
Levi H. – 3rd place, 175-pound weight class
Milayna D. – 4th place, 100-pound weight class
Cheyenne K. – 4th place, 110-pound weight class
We also want to recognize Coach John Brown for his leadership and dedication to our wrestling program.
We are proud of these student-athletes for their hard work, determination, and the way they represented De Soto High School on the state stage.
At the March Board of Education meeting, De Soto High School proudly recognized our Dance Team for an incredible season filled with achievement both on and off the floor.
Congratulations to our team for:
2nd Place in Mix Division
(Lyla B., Shelby B., Amelia D., Kaitlyn H., Goldie K., Taylor R., Raegan S., Shelby S., Mya W.)
Community Service Award – Division 3
Academic All-State Honors:
4.0 GPA – Raegan S. and Shelby S.
3.6–3.9 GPA – Lyla B., Mya W., and Taylor R.
A special thank you to Coaches Allison Williamson and Angie Burke for their leadership and dedication.
We are proud of these student-athletes for their talent, commitment, and the way they represent De Soto High School in competition, in the classroom, and in the community.
Congratulations to our team for:
2nd Place in Mix Division
(Lyla B., Shelby B., Amelia D., Kaitlyn H., Goldie K., Taylor R., Raegan S., Shelby S., Mya W.)
Community Service Award – Division 3
Academic All-State Honors:
4.0 GPA – Raegan S. and Shelby S.
3.6–3.9 GPA – Lyla B., Mya W., and Taylor R.
A special thank you to Coaches Allison Williamson and Angie Burke for their leadership and dedication.
We are proud of these student-athletes for their talent, commitment, and the way they represent De Soto High School in competition, in the classroom, and in the community.
Join us in congratulating our DHS Varsity Cheerleaders who earned Academic All-State honors!
This recognition reflects their dedication, discipline, and commitment to excellence both in the classroom and on the mat. We are incredibly proud of the hard work these student-athletes put in every day to represent our district with pride.
Way to go, Dragons!
This recognition reflects their dedication, discipline, and commitment to excellence both in the classroom and on the mat. We are incredibly proud of the hard work these student-athletes put in every day to represent our district with pride.
Way to go, Dragons!
At the March Board of Education meeting, Athena Elementary proudly recognized one of our outstanding students
Student Recognition
Athena would like to recognize Lilly T. for her kindness and leadership. Lilly recently stepped in to support a fellow student who was struggling—offering comfort and helping them transition smoothly into class.
Her compassion and willingness to help others truly reflect the character we strive to build in our students. We could not be more proud of her!
Lilly is a shining example of the amazing students at Athena Elementary!
Student Recognition
Athena would like to recognize Lilly T. for her kindness and leadership. Lilly recently stepped in to support a fellow student who was struggling—offering comfort and helping them transition smoothly into class.
Her compassion and willingness to help others truly reflect the character we strive to build in our students. We could not be more proud of her!
Lilly is a shining example of the amazing students at Athena Elementary!
De Soto Middle School is hosting a Map Kick-Off Movie Night on the Football Field, and you won’t want to miss it!
April 22
6:00 PM
J.C. Culwell Stadium
Enjoy a night of:
Hot dogs, popcorn, and snacks (available for purchase)
Games and activities for all ages
A showing of The Sandlot
$5 per person
All proceeds support the DMS Renaissance Program
Bring your blankets and your friends—we can’t wait to see you there!
April 22
6:00 PM
J.C. Culwell Stadium
Enjoy a night of:
Hot dogs, popcorn, and snacks (available for purchase)
Games and activities for all ages
A showing of The Sandlot
$5 per person
All proceeds support the DMS Renaissance Program
Bring your blankets and your friends—we can’t wait to see you there!
Spring Break Reminder
Just a reminder that Spring Break will be March 30 – April 6.
We hope our students and staff enjoy a relaxing and fun break! School will resume on Tuesday, April 7.
Enjoy the time off, Dragons!
Just a reminder that Spring Break will be March 30 – April 6.
We hope our students and staff enjoy a relaxing and fun break! School will resume on Tuesday, April 7.
Enjoy the time off, Dragons!
We’re growing and looking for great people to join our team!
De Soto #73 School District is now hiring for the following positions for the 2026-2027 school year:
High School Family and Consumer Science Teacher
Contact: Mr. Roop at roop.jon@desoto.k12.mo.us
Middle School Special Education Teacher (Resource)
Contact: Mr. Hammond at hammond.zeb@desoto.k12.mo.us
ECC Process Coordinator
Contact: Mrs. Casey at casey.diana@desoto.k12.mo.us
Primary School Special Education Teacher
Contact: Mrs. Wagner at wagner.meagan@desoto.k12.mo.us
If you’re passionate about making a difference for students and being part of a supportive, community-focused team, we’d love to hear from you.
Competitive benefits
Supportive team environment
Opportunities to make an impact every day
Join us in making a difference!
De Soto #73 School District is now hiring for the following positions for the 2026-2027 school year:
High School Family and Consumer Science Teacher
Contact: Mr. Roop at roop.jon@desoto.k12.mo.us
Middle School Special Education Teacher (Resource)
Contact: Mr. Hammond at hammond.zeb@desoto.k12.mo.us
ECC Process Coordinator
Contact: Mrs. Casey at casey.diana@desoto.k12.mo.us
Primary School Special Education Teacher
Contact: Mrs. Wagner at wagner.meagan@desoto.k12.mo.us
If you’re passionate about making a difference for students and being part of a supportive, community-focused team, we’d love to hear from you.
Competitive benefits
Supportive team environment
Opportunities to make an impact every day
Join us in making a difference!
The 2026–2027 school calendar has been officially approved by the Board of Education!
The first day of school will be Wednesday, August 26, 2026, and the last day of school is scheduled for May 27, 2027 (pending inclement weather).
School Day Times:
De Soto High School (DHS) / De Soto Middle School (DMS): 7:38 AM – 2:35 PM
De Soto Intermediate (Vineland): 8:20 AM – 3:15 PM
De Soto Primary (Athena): 8:40 AM – 3:35 PM
Early Childhood Center (ECC at Rock Road) – Full Day: 8:15 AM – 3:10 PM
Early Childhood Center (ECC at De Soto Primary) – Full Day: 8:15 AM – 3:10 PM
ECC – Half Day (AM): 8:15 AM – 11:10 AM
ECC – Half Day (PM): 12:10 PM – 3:10 PM
As part of our new elementary grade-level centers, Intermediate will begin 20 minutes before Primary. This schedule was carefully planned through research and timing tests to support smooth transitions for families. Bus routes have also been redesigned to maintain efficiency, with some of our longest routes expected to be slightly shorter.
We will be sharing additional details soon regarding Open House and Parent-Teacher Conferences to ensure families with students in multiple buildings can attend with ease.
