De Soto #73 School District
610 Vineland School Road De Soto, MO 63020 Phone 636-586-1000 Fax 636-586-1009
We’re Hiring!
The De Soto #73 School District is looking for a bus technician/mechanic to join our transportation team!
If you're interested, you can apply:
Online: via MOREAP
In Person: Visit our Transportation Office at 3781 Athena School Rd. De Soto, MO 63020.
Have questions?
Contact Mr. Eric Young at 636-586-1078 or young.eric@desoto.k12.mo.us.
Help us keep our students safe and moving—join the Dragon team
The De Soto #73 School District is looking for a bus technician/mechanic to join our transportation team!
If you're interested, you can apply:
Online: via MOREAP
In Person: Visit our Transportation Office at 3781 Athena School Rd. De Soto, MO 63020.
Have questions?
Contact Mr. Eric Young at 636-586-1078 or young.eric@desoto.k12.mo.us.
Help us keep our students safe and moving—join the Dragon team
Board of Education Recognition — Celebrating Excellence in Music Education
At last week’s Board of Education meeting, De Soto Middle School proudly recognized Seth Harris, Middle School Choir Director, for his dedication and outstanding impact on the choir program.
When Mr. Harris began teaching at the middle school, the program included just 6 students in Men’s Glee and 30 students in Women’s Glee. Through his commitment to building relationships and creating a positive, welcoming environment, the program has grown tremendously — now serving 30 students in Men’s Glee and 67 students in Women’s Glee.
This growth reflects the time, energy, and passion Mr. Harris invests in his students each day. Beyond the classroom, he provides meaningful performance opportunities, including organizing a National Anthem performance at a St. Louis Ambush game and taking students to Kansas City to perform and compete at the Worlds of Fun Festival alongside other middle school choirs.
Thank you, Mr. Harris, for your dedication to our students and for helping our music program thrive!
At last week’s Board of Education meeting, De Soto Middle School proudly recognized Seth Harris, Middle School Choir Director, for his dedication and outstanding impact on the choir program.
When Mr. Harris began teaching at the middle school, the program included just 6 students in Men’s Glee and 30 students in Women’s Glee. Through his commitment to building relationships and creating a positive, welcoming environment, the program has grown tremendously — now serving 30 students in Men’s Glee and 67 students in Women’s Glee.
This growth reflects the time, energy, and passion Mr. Harris invests in his students each day. Beyond the classroom, he provides meaningful performance opportunities, including organizing a National Anthem performance at a St. Louis Ambush game and taking students to Kansas City to perform and compete at the Worlds of Fun Festival alongside other middle school choirs.
Thank you, Mr. Harris, for your dedication to our students and for helping our music program thrive!
History Made!
Congratulations to Kolton C. on becoming the first Tier 1 qualifier in the history of archery at De Soto!
This is an incredible accomplishment and a proud moment for our entire Dragon community. Kolton’s hard work, focus, and dedication to the sport have truly paid off — and he’s officially etched his name into De Soto archery history.
We can’t wait to see what’s next. Way to go, Kolton!
Congratulations to Kolton C. on becoming the first Tier 1 qualifier in the history of archery at De Soto!
This is an incredible accomplishment and a proud moment for our entire Dragon community. Kolton’s hard work, focus, and dedication to the sport have truly paid off — and he’s officially etched his name into De Soto archery history.
We can’t wait to see what’s next. Way to go, Kolton!
Welcome to De Soto #73!
Please join us in welcoming Ms. Kirstin to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year!
Position/Title:
Bus Aide
Building or Department:
Transportation Department
Previous Experience:
Ms. Kirstin previously served as a bus aide in another district and shared that she had such a blast working with the students.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby / What She’s Excited About:
Ms. Kirstin is a bookworm at heart and has already read 11 books this year! She also enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and participating in activities with her daughter’s Girl Scout troop.
We’re excited to have Ms. Kirstin 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!
Please join us in welcoming Ms. Kirstin to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year!
Position/Title:
Bus Aide
Building or Department:
Transportation Department
Previous Experience:
Ms. Kirstin previously served as a bus aide in another district and shared that she had such a blast working with the students.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby / What She’s Excited About:
Ms. Kirstin is a bookworm at heart and has already read 11 books this year! She also enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and participating in activities with her daughter’s Girl Scout troop.
We’re excited to have Ms. Kirstin 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!
Board of Education Recognition — Thank You, Milfeld Foundation!
At last week’s Board of Education meeting, the District proudly recognized the Milfeld Foundation for their incredibly generous $100,000 donation to support our High School Art Program.
This extraordinary investment will have a meaningful impact on students across multiple grade levels by funding new kilns, updated equipment, and essential classroom supplies that enhance instruction and expand creative opportunities. The donation also opens the door for transformative student experiences, including potential educational travel opportunities such as a trip to Chicago to explore art, museums, and cultural institutions.
The Milfeld Foundation’s support strengthens our fine arts programming and reinforces the importance of creativity, expression, and innovation in our schools. We are deeply grateful for this partnership and the opportunities it creates for our students both inside and outside the classroom.
At last week’s Board of Education meeting, the District proudly recognized the Milfeld Foundation for their incredibly generous $100,000 donation to support our High School Art Program.
This extraordinary investment will have a meaningful impact on students across multiple grade levels by funding new kilns, updated equipment, and essential classroom supplies that enhance instruction and expand creative opportunities. The donation also opens the door for transformative student experiences, including potential educational travel opportunities such as a trip to Chicago to explore art, museums, and cultural institutions.
The Milfeld Foundation’s support strengthens our fine arts programming and reinforces the importance of creativity, expression, and innovation in our schools. We are deeply grateful for this partnership and the opportunities it creates for our students both inside and outside the classroom.
I scream, you scream, we all scream for ICE CREAM!
Join us for a sweet treat that supports a great cause at our Little Dragons fundraiser!
Monday, February 23
4:00–8:00 PM
De Soto Dairy Queen — 120 Jefferson Square
DQ will donate 20% of all sales to the Early Childhood Center!
Funds raised will support activity nights, equipment, classroom supplies, and other building needs for our youngest learners.
Bring your family, invite your friends, and help us chill out for a good cause!
Join us for a sweet treat that supports a great cause at our Little Dragons fundraiser!
Monday, February 23
4:00–8:00 PM
De Soto Dairy Queen — 120 Jefferson Square
DQ will donate 20% of all sales to the Early Childhood Center!
Funds raised will support activity nights, equipment, classroom supplies, and other building needs for our youngest learners.
Bring your family, invite your friends, and help us chill out for a good cause!
DHS Varsity Cheer Tryouts Are Coming!
Do you have school spirit, energy, and a love for cheering on the Dragons? Now’s your chance to join DHS Varsity Cheer!
Tryouts: Saturday, March 21
Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Open to high school students interested in being part of the DHS Varsity Cheer team.
Informational Meeting:
Thursday, February 26
7:20 AM
Coach Roop’s Room #131
Attend the informational meeting to learn about expectations, requirements, and the tryout process.
Let’s go, Dragons!
Do you have school spirit, energy, and a love for cheering on the Dragons? Now’s your chance to join DHS Varsity Cheer!
Tryouts: Saturday, March 21
Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Open to high school students interested in being part of the DHS Varsity Cheer team.
Informational Meeting:
Thursday, February 26
7:20 AM
Coach Roop’s Room #131
Attend the informational meeting to learn about expectations, requirements, and the tryout process.
Let’s go, Dragons!
De Soto High School’s HOSA students recently had an incredible opportunity to connect with affiliates of the Future Health Professionals organization, share the importance of their program, and learn more about national health organizations. Students also explored the state capitol and spoke with legislators to advocate for their program and the future of healthcare education.
What is HOSA?
HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) is a global, student-led organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services, along with several federal and state agencies. Its mission is to empower future health professionals to become leaders in the global health community through education, collaboration, and hands-on experience. HOSA promotes career opportunities in the health field while supporting the delivery of quality healthcare for all.
This growing program, led by Mrs. Frazier, is continuing to expand and will be accepting applications for new members at the start of the 2026–2027 school year.
What is HOSA?
HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) is a global, student-led organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services, along with several federal and state agencies. Its mission is to empower future health professionals to become leaders in the global health community through education, collaboration, and hands-on experience. HOSA promotes career opportunities in the health field while supporting the delivery of quality healthcare for all.
This growing program, led by Mrs. Frazier, is continuing to expand and will be accepting applications for new members at the start of the 2026–2027 school year.
We’re Hiring for the 2026–2027 School Year!
Join our team and make a difference in the lives of students by supporting learning, growth, and success for all.
Now Hiring:
Primary (K–2nd Grade) Behavior Resource Teacher
Intermediate (3rd–5th Grade) Self-Contained Behavior Teacher
If you are passionate about supporting students and creating positive learning environments, we would love to hear from you!
Questions? Contact Christina Bourbon at bourbon.christina@desoto.k12.mo.us.
Join our team and make a difference in the lives of students by supporting learning, growth, and success for all.
Now Hiring:
Primary (K–2nd Grade) Behavior Resource Teacher
Intermediate (3rd–5th Grade) Self-Contained Behavior Teacher
If you are passionate about supporting students and creating positive learning environments, we would love to hear from you!
Questions? Contact Christina Bourbon at bourbon.christina@desoto.k12.mo.us.
This past week, Mrs. Pagano's World History classes kicked off our new unit on Imperialism with an interactive African Colonization simulation! Students stepped into the roles of European countries and participated in a fast-paced game that brought history to life.
As the rounds progressed, students strategically selected African territories to claim and competed with one another using rock, paper, scissors to represent conflict between nations. Winning two out of three rounds earned control of a territory, and by the end of the activity, the country with the most territory claimed victory.
Through this engaging, hands-on experience, students gained a deeper understanding of European imperialism in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The simulation allowed students to explore the competition, conflict, and impact of imperial expansion—all while having fun and actively learning.
As the rounds progressed, students strategically selected African territories to claim and competed with one another using rock, paper, scissors to represent conflict between nations. Winning two out of three rounds earned control of a territory, and by the end of the activity, the country with the most territory claimed victory.
Through this engaging, hands-on experience, students gained a deeper understanding of European imperialism in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The simulation allowed students to explore the competition, conflict, and impact of imperial expansion—all while having fun and actively learning.
Support De Soto Dragon Archery!
Join us for a Texas Roadhouse Fundraiser Night and help support our student archers while enjoying a great meal!
Texas Roadhouse – Festus, MO
Wednesday, February 18
3:00–10:00 PM
Dine-In or To-Go
Just present this flyer to your server or to-go specialist, and 10% of your total food purchase will be donated back to De Soto Dragon Archery.
Bring your family, invite your friends, and help make a difference for our students!
Join us for a Texas Roadhouse Fundraiser Night and help support our student archers while enjoying a great meal!
Texas Roadhouse – Festus, MO
Wednesday, February 18
3:00–10:00 PM
Dine-In or To-Go
Just present this flyer to your server or to-go specialist, and 10% of your total food purchase will be donated back to De Soto Dragon Archery.
Bring your family, invite your friends, and help make a difference for our students!
Happy Presidents Day
Today we recognize Presidents Day and the leadership that has helped shape our nation.
Reminder: Students will return to school tomorrow, Tuesday, February 17.
We look forward to welcoming everyone back!
Today we recognize Presidents Day and the leadership that has helped shape our nation.
Reminder: Students will return to school tomorrow, Tuesday, February 17.
We look forward to welcoming everyone back!
Reminder: Board of Education Meeting
Our Board of Education will be meeting on Thursday, February 19, 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.
Our Board of Education will be meeting on Thursday, February 19, 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.
Happy National School Resource Officer (SRO) Day!
Today we recognize and thank our School Resource Officers for their dedication to keeping our schools safe, building positive relationships, and supporting students, staff, and families each day. Your presence helps create a welcoming, secure environment where learning can thrive.
Thank you for all you do—we appreciate you!
Today we recognize and thank our School Resource Officers for their dedication to keeping our schools safe, building positive relationships, and supporting students, staff, and families each day. Your presence helps create a welcoming, secure environment where learning can thrive.
Thank you for all you do—we appreciate you!
This week, students at Athena Elementary took their learning beyond the classroom with a hands-on recycling education lesson!
A big thank you to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources for making this project possible through the Scrap Tire Grant! Your support is helping us create safer, more inclusive play spaces and empowering students to think like environmental problem-solvers.
A big thank you to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources for making this project possible through the Scrap Tire Grant! Your support is helping us create safer, more inclusive play spaces and empowering students to think like environmental problem-solvers.
Reminder:
There will be no school on Monday, February 16, in observance of Presidents Day.
Enjoy the long weekend, and we’ll see students back on Tuesday!
There will be no school on Monday, February 16, in observance of Presidents Day.
Enjoy the long weekend, and we’ll see students back on Tuesday!
This past Saturday, the Senior High School proudly hosted its annual D.C. Trivia Night at Vineland Elementary School, and it was a huge success! Students participating in the Washington, D.C. trip worked together to make the evening run smoothly and create a fun, welcoming atmosphere for all who attended.
Guests enjoyed an exciting raffle featuring student-created baskets, including beauty baskets, lottery baskets, and popular De Soto gear. The 50/50 raffle was a highlight of the night, raising a record-breaking amount thanks to the generosity of our community and the hard work of our students.
Community members and school staff alike had a great time testing their knowledge during the trivia rounds—and even learned a few new facts along the way! The D.C. sponsors and students would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to everyone who attended and supported the event.
Proceeds from Trivia Night help cover student meals during this once-in-a-lifetime trip to Washington, D.C., where students will have the opportunity to explore our nation’s history firsthand. We are grateful for the continued support that helps make experiences like this possible for our students.
Guests enjoyed an exciting raffle featuring student-created baskets, including beauty baskets, lottery baskets, and popular De Soto gear. The 50/50 raffle was a highlight of the night, raising a record-breaking amount thanks to the generosity of our community and the hard work of our students.
Community members and school staff alike had a great time testing their knowledge during the trivia rounds—and even learned a few new facts along the way! The D.C. sponsors and students would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to everyone who attended and supported the event.
Proceeds from Trivia Night help cover student meals during this once-in-a-lifetime trip to Washington, D.C., where students will have the opportunity to explore our nation’s history firsthand. We are grateful for the continued support that helps make experiences like this possible for our students.
Welcome to De Soto #73!
Please join us in welcoming Ms. Meghan Randolph (Ms. Randolph to her students!) to the De Soto #73 School District for the 2026–2027 school year!
Position/Title:
Third Grade Teacher
Building:
Vineland Elementary
Previous Experience:
Prior to joining the De Soto team, Meghan has taught for seven years at Sunrise R-9 School District and St. Rose of Lima. This will be her eighth year in the classroom.
Fun Fact / What She’s Excited About:
She’s excited to build strong relationships with students and create a fun, engaging classroom environment this year!
We are thrilled to welcome Meghan to our team and look forward to the positive impact she will have on our students and school community. Please help us give her a warm Dragon welcome!
Please join us in welcoming Ms. Meghan Randolph (Ms. Randolph to her students!) to the De Soto #73 School District for the 2026–2027 school year!
Position/Title:
Third Grade Teacher
Building:
Vineland Elementary
Previous Experience:
Prior to joining the De Soto team, Meghan has taught for seven years at Sunrise R-9 School District and St. Rose of Lima. This will be her eighth year in the classroom.
Fun Fact / What She’s Excited About:
She’s excited to build strong relationships with students and create a fun, engaging classroom environment this year!
We are thrilled to welcome Meghan to our team and look forward to the positive impact she will have on our students and school community. Please help us give her a warm Dragon welcome!
Grant Shoutout & Thank You!
We are incredibly grateful to the Jefferson Foundation for awarding our district the Every Student Moves grant! Because of their generous support, new PE equipment has been purchased and is now being used by students during physical education classes at Athena Elementary School.
This grant is helping increase student movement, engagement, and access to inclusive physical activity opportunities—supporting healthy habits and active learning for all students.
Thank you, Jefferson Foundation, for investing in our students and helping ensure that every student moves!
Our students had an outstanding performance at the Kingston Archery Tournament on Saturday. The middle school team earned 3rd place finishes in both Bullseye and 3D, and several middle and elementary students received individual medals.
Congratulations to our archers and coaches on their dedication and success—we are proud of their achievements!
Congratulations to our archers and coaches on their dedication and success—we are proud of their achievements!
