De Soto #73 School District
610 Vineland School Road De Soto, MO 63020
Board of Education Recognition – De Soto Primary Administration, Faculty & Staff!
At the October Board of Education meeting, the De Soto #73 School District proudly recognized Mrs. Wagner-Westermayer, Mrs. Hensley, and the entire De Soto Primary team for their exceptional leadership, professionalism, and dedication to students!
The start of the school year has brought its share of challenges, but the De Soto Primary team has continued to demonstrate patience, flexibility, and an unwavering commitment to students.
Their response to the September 16 power outage was a true example of teamwork and resilience. While emergency responders, utility crews, and contractors worked to address the situation, Mrs. Wagner-Westermayer and Mrs. Hensley provided steady leadership, helping coordinate communication and ensure the safety of students and staff.
Meanwhile, teachers and staff continued caring for students, with many classrooms maintaining instruction despite being without power!
We are incredibly proud of our De Soto Primary team! While the recognition was presented to the building administration, this honor belongs to every faculty and staff member at De Soto Primary. Their teamwork, dedication, and ability to put students first during challenging circumstances truly represent what it means to be a Dragon!
On behalf of the De Soto #73 School District and Board of Education, thank you to Mrs. Wagner-Westermayer, Mrs. Hensley, and the entire De Soto Primary faculty and staff for all you do for our students and school community!
Congratulations to Our De Soto Middle School Musicians!
We are proud to recognize three talented De Soto Middle School students who recently auditioned for the Middle School All-District Band!
Clair T., Kian L., and Easton F. all auditioned on trumpet, competing against more than 30 students for just 9 available spots!
Each of these students dedicated countless hours to preparing for their auditions, and we are incredibly proud of their hard work, determination, and willingness to challenge themselves!
A special congratulations to Claire H. for earning a spot in the All-District Band! She will have the opportunity to perform at Farmington High School on Saturday, November 7!
Congratulations to all three students for representing De Soto Middle School! Your dedication and passion for music make us Dragon Proud!
We are proud to recognize three talented De Soto Middle School students who recently auditioned for the Middle School All-District Band!
Clair T., Kian L., and Easton F. all auditioned on trumpet, competing against more than 30 students for just 9 available spots!
Each of these students dedicated countless hours to preparing for their auditions, and we are incredibly proud of their hard work, determination, and willingness to challenge themselves!
A special congratulations to Claire H. for earning a spot in the All-District Band! She will have the opportunity to perform at Farmington High School on Saturday, November 7!
Congratulations to all three students for representing De Soto Middle School! Your dedication and passion for music make us Dragon Proud!
Community Partner Recognition – De Soto Rural Fire Protection District & Hematite Fire Protection District!
At the October Board of Education meeting, the De Soto #73 School District proudly recognized the De Soto Rural Fire Protection District and Hematite Fire Protection District (not pictured) for their exceptional response, professionalism, and dedication to keeping our students and staff safe!
When the September 16 incident at De Soto Primary brought down power lines and utility poles, causing a significant power outage, these emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene to assess the situation and thoroughly inspect the building and campus grounds to ensure everyone's safety.
Throughout the incident, firefighters provided a calm and reassuring presence, interacting positively with students and staff while working diligently to address safety concerns.
Their commitment went above and beyond! Before leaving the scene, department members checked with district administration to make sure there was nothing more they could do to help.
We are incredibly grateful for the De Soto Rural Fire Protection District and Hematite Fire Protection District! Their quick response, professionalism, and genuine care for our school community made a tremendous difference during an unexpected and challenging situation.
On behalf of the De Soto #73 School District and Board of Education, thank you to both fire protection districts for your outstanding service and unwavering commitment to our Dragon community!
At the October Board of Education meeting, the De Soto #73 School District proudly recognized the De Soto Rural Fire Protection District and Hematite Fire Protection District (not pictured) for their exceptional response, professionalism, and dedication to keeping our students and staff safe!
When the September 16 incident at De Soto Primary brought down power lines and utility poles, causing a significant power outage, these emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene to assess the situation and thoroughly inspect the building and campus grounds to ensure everyone's safety.
Throughout the incident, firefighters provided a calm and reassuring presence, interacting positively with students and staff while working diligently to address safety concerns.
Their commitment went above and beyond! Before leaving the scene, department members checked with district administration to make sure there was nothing more they could do to help.
We are incredibly grateful for the De Soto Rural Fire Protection District and Hematite Fire Protection District! Their quick response, professionalism, and genuine care for our school community made a tremendous difference during an unexpected and challenging situation.
On behalf of the De Soto #73 School District and Board of Education, thank you to both fire protection districts for your outstanding service and unwavering commitment to our Dragon community!
School Resource Officer Recognition – Deputy Ross & Deputy Godi!
At the October Board of Education meeting, the De Soto #73 School District proudly recognized Deputy Ross and Deputy Godi for their exceptional service and unwavering commitment to keeping our students, staff, and schools safe!
As our School Resource Officers, their impact goes far beyond providing a law enforcement presence in our buildings. They play an important role in educating students, supporting staff, and strengthening safety throughout our district.
Last year, they introduced the Safe and Sober curriculum during Red Ribbon Week and will continue providing this valuable education to students again this year.
They have also led comprehensive active attacker response training for district staff, using realistic scenarios and follow-up discussions to strengthen emergency preparedness. In addition, they actively participate in behavioral risk assessments and other proactive school safety efforts.
We are incredibly grateful for Deputy Ross and Deputy Godi! Their dedication, professionalism, and genuine care for our students and staff make them invaluable members of our Dragon family.
On behalf of the De Soto #73 School District and Board of Education, thank you, Deputy Ross and Deputy Godi, for all you do to keep our schools safe!
At the October Board of Education meeting, the De Soto #73 School District proudly recognized Deputy Ross and Deputy Godi for their exceptional service and unwavering commitment to keeping our students, staff, and schools safe!
As our School Resource Officers, their impact goes far beyond providing a law enforcement presence in our buildings. They play an important role in educating students, supporting staff, and strengthening safety throughout our district.
Last year, they introduced the Safe and Sober curriculum during Red Ribbon Week and will continue providing this valuable education to students again this year.
They have also led comprehensive active attacker response training for district staff, using realistic scenarios and follow-up discussions to strengthen emergency preparedness. In addition, they actively participate in behavioral risk assessments and other proactive school safety efforts.
We are incredibly grateful for Deputy Ross and Deputy Godi! Their dedication, professionalism, and genuine care for our students and staff make them invaluable members of our Dragon family.
On behalf of the De Soto #73 School District and Board of Education, thank you, Deputy Ross and Deputy Godi, for all you do to keep our schools safe!
Community Partner Recognition – Thank You to Our Local Churches!
At the October Board of Education meeting, the De Soto #73 School District proudly recognized First Baptist Church of De Soto, Journey Community Church, and De Soto Community Church of God for their continued generosity, service, and dedication to supporting our students, staff, and schools!
First Baptist Church of De Soto has generously volunteered time and talents over the years to assist with facility improvements, painting projects, district events, and other needs throughout our schools. Most recently, the church offered the use of its facilities when district spaces were temporarily unavailable due to construction, helping ensure our athletic programs could continue without interruption.
Journey Community Church continues to be a valued partner by regularly providing volunteers for school events and activities. Their members generously give their time and talents to support our students and staff, making a positive impact throughout our district.
De Soto Community Church of God consistently demonstrates its commitment to our schools by providing volunteers for district events and activities. Their generosity, compassion, and willingness to serve help strengthen our schools and the greater De Soto community.
We are incredibly grateful for these outstanding community partners! Their willingness to step up, lend a helping hand, and give back to our schools is a wonderful example of the strong community support that makes De Soto such a special place.
On behalf of the De Soto #73 School District and Board of Education, thank you to First Baptist Church of De Soto, Journey Community Church, and De Soto Community Church of God for your continued partnership, generosity, and dedication to our Dragon community!
At the October Board of Education meeting, the De Soto #73 School District proudly recognized First Baptist Church of De Soto, Journey Community Church, and De Soto Community Church of God for their continued generosity, service, and dedication to supporting our students, staff, and schools!
First Baptist Church of De Soto has generously volunteered time and talents over the years to assist with facility improvements, painting projects, district events, and other needs throughout our schools. Most recently, the church offered the use of its facilities when district spaces were temporarily unavailable due to construction, helping ensure our athletic programs could continue without interruption.
Journey Community Church continues to be a valued partner by regularly providing volunteers for school events and activities. Their members generously give their time and talents to support our students and staff, making a positive impact throughout our district.
De Soto Community Church of God consistently demonstrates its commitment to our schools by providing volunteers for district events and activities. Their generosity, compassion, and willingness to serve help strengthen our schools and the greater De Soto community.
We are incredibly grateful for these outstanding community partners! Their willingness to step up, lend a helping hand, and give back to our schools is a wonderful example of the strong community support that makes De Soto such a special place.
On behalf of the De Soto #73 School District and Board of Education, thank you to First Baptist Church of De Soto, Journey Community Church, and De Soto Community Church of God for your continued partnership, generosity, and dedication to our Dragon community!
WE'RE HIRING! JOIN OUR DRAGON TEAM!
De Soto #73 School District is looking for a Recess Aide to join our team at De Soto Intermediate School!
If you enjoy working with students and helping create a fun, safe, and positive school environment, we encourage you to apply!
Have questions? Contact Mrs. Melissa Dunnegan at dunnegan.melissa@desoto.k12.mo.us.
Come be part of our Dragon family!
De Soto #73 School District is looking for a Recess Aide to join our team at De Soto Intermediate School!
If you enjoy working with students and helping create a fun, safe, and positive school environment, we encourage you to apply!
Have questions? Contact Mrs. Melissa Dunnegan at dunnegan.melissa@desoto.k12.mo.us.
Come be part of our Dragon family!
A Little Dragon with a BIG Heart!
At the October Board of Education meeting, the De Soto #73 School District proudly recognized Diesel E., a kindergarten student, for his bravery, quick thinking, and heroic actions during an emergency.
When a staff member began experiencing a medical emergency and asked Diesel to get help, he immediately sprang into action and quickly found assistance. His quick response helped ensure the staff member received the attention they needed.
We are incredibly proud of Diesel! His courage and willingness to help during a frightening situation are truly inspiring.
Thank you, Diesel, for showing us that heroes come in all sizes!
At the October Board of Education meeting, the De Soto #73 School District proudly recognized Diesel E., a kindergarten student, for his bravery, quick thinking, and heroic actions during an emergency.
When a staff member began experiencing a medical emergency and asked Diesel to get help, he immediately sprang into action and quickly found assistance. His quick response helped ensure the staff member received the attention they needed.
We are incredibly proud of Diesel! His courage and willingness to help during a frightening situation are truly inspiring.
Thank you, Diesel, for showing us that heroes come in all sizes!
Wrapping Up National School Bus Safety Week with a HUGE Thank You!
As National School Bus Safety Week comes to a close, we want to recognize the incredible members of our De Soto #73 Transportation Department!
Our bus drivers are often the first smiling faces our students see in the morning and the last they see before heading home. Rain or shine, early mornings and busy afternoons, they work hard to safely transport our Dragons every school day.
We also want to recognize our transportation staff who work behind the scenes to keep our buses running and our routes operating smoothly.
THANK YOU for your dedication, patience, and commitment to our students!
Dragon families, help us show our appreciation! Drop a kind message in the comments to thank our amazing transportation team!
As National School Bus Safety Week comes to a close, we want to recognize the incredible members of our De Soto #73 Transportation Department!
Our bus drivers are often the first smiling faces our students see in the morning and the last they see before heading home. Rain or shine, early mornings and busy afternoons, they work hard to safely transport our Dragons every school day.
We also want to recognize our transportation staff who work behind the scenes to keep our buses running and our routes operating smoothly.
THANK YOU for your dedication, patience, and commitment to our students!
Dragon families, help us show our appreciation! Drop a kind message in the comments to thank our amazing transportation team!
Finishing the Season with a WIN!
Congratulations to our 7th and 8th Grade Dragon Football Teams on their victories over Potosi in their final games of the season!
A special shoutout to our 8th grade football players and cheerleaders as they celebrated their final middle school game! What a great way to wrap up their middle school football and cheerleading careers!
We are proud of all our players, cheerleaders, and coaches for their hard work, dedication, school spirit, and teamwork throughout the season!
Check out these pictures of our 8th graders celebrating their final middle school victory!
Way to go, Dragons!
Congratulations to our 7th and 8th Grade Dragon Football Teams on their victories over Potosi in their final games of the season!
A special shoutout to our 8th grade football players and cheerleaders as they celebrated their final middle school game! What a great way to wrap up their middle school football and cheerleading careers!
We are proud of all our players, cheerleaders, and coaches for their hard work, dedication, school spirit, and teamwork throughout the season!
Check out these pictures of our 8th graders celebrating their final middle school victory!
Way to go, Dragons!
Taste It Day Was a HUGE Hit at De Soto Primary!
On Monday, our food service partner, SFE, hosted a special Taste It Day at De Soto Primary School!
Students had the opportunity to sample delicious cheese-stuffed breadsticks in a fun, no-pressure environment!
The goal of Taste It Day is to introduce students to new lunch options and encourage them to try something different. If they love what they taste, they can choose it as part of their school lunch in the future!
The verdict? The cheese-stuffed breadsticks were a HUGE hit! Students loved them, making this Taste It Day a great success!
A big thank you to our SFE team for finding fun and creative ways to get our Dragons excited about school lunch!
On Monday, our food service partner, SFE, hosted a special Taste It Day at De Soto Primary School!
Students had the opportunity to sample delicious cheese-stuffed breadsticks in a fun, no-pressure environment!
The goal of Taste It Day is to introduce students to new lunch options and encourage them to try something different. If they love what they taste, they can choose it as part of their school lunch in the future!
The verdict? The cheese-stuffed breadsticks were a HUGE hit! Students loved them, making this Taste It Day a great success!
A big thank you to our SFE team for finding fun and creative ways to get our Dragons excited about school lunch!
Important Information Regarding State Education Funding
Please see the attached letter from Jefferson County superintendents regarding concerns about state education funding and a call to action for families.
All Jefferson County school superintendents are working together to raise awareness about this important issue and its potential impact on public education throughout our communities.
We encourage our families, staff, and community members to review the letter and consider reaching out to the following state education leaders and elected officials to share their thoughts and concerns.
Missouri State Board of Education
573-751-3563
SBE@dese.mo.gov
State Representative Bill Lucas – District 115
573-751-7735
Bill.Lucas@house.mo.gov
State Senator Mike Henderson – District 3
573-751-2108
mike.henderson@senate.mo.gov
Thank you for your continued support of the De Soto #73 School District and public education throughout Jefferson County.
Please see the attached letter from Jefferson County superintendents regarding concerns about state education funding and a call to action for families.
All Jefferson County school superintendents are working together to raise awareness about this important issue and its potential impact on public education throughout our communities.
We encourage our families, staff, and community members to review the letter and consider reaching out to the following state education leaders and elected officials to share their thoughts and concerns.
Missouri State Board of Education
573-751-3563
SBE@dese.mo.gov
State Representative Bill Lucas – District 115
573-751-7735
Bill.Lucas@house.mo.gov
State Senator Mike Henderson – District 3
573-751-2108
mike.henderson@senate.mo.gov
Thank you for your continued support of the De Soto #73 School District and public education throughout Jefferson County.
School Bus Safety Week: Safety Continues ON the Bus!
School bus safety doesn't stop once students step onto the bus!
We want to remind all of our Dragons to practice safe and respectful behavior every time they ride.
Find a seat quickly and remain seated while the bus is moving.
Keep aisles clear and belongings in your seat or lap.
Use inside voices so the driver can concentrate.
Keep hands, arms, and objects inside the bus.
Always listen to and follow the bus driver's instructions.
Treat your driver and fellow passengers with kindness and respect.
Our bus drivers have an important job, and students can help them by making good choices!
Good behavior makes for a safer ride for everyone!
School bus safety doesn't stop once students step onto the bus!
We want to remind all of our Dragons to practice safe and respectful behavior every time they ride.
Find a seat quickly and remain seated while the bus is moving.
Keep aisles clear and belongings in your seat or lap.
Use inside voices so the driver can concentrate.
Keep hands, arms, and objects inside the bus.
Always listen to and follow the bus driver's instructions.
Treat your driver and fellow passengers with kindness and respect.
Our bus drivers have an important job, and students can help them by making good choices!
Good behavior makes for a safer ride for everyone!
School Bus Safety Week: Be Safe at the Bus Stop!
Our Dragons can help make every bus ride safer by practicing these important bus stop safety habits!
Arrive at your bus stop at least 5 minutes early.
Stand back from the roadway while waiting for the bus.
Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop and the driver signals that it's safe to board.
Never run toward or chase a moving bus.
If you must cross the road, always wait for your bus driver's signal and look both ways before crossing.
Never walk behind a school bus.
Parents and guardians, please take a few minutes to review these important reminders with your children.
Safe habits make safe Dragons!
Our Dragons can help make every bus ride safer by practicing these important bus stop safety habits!
Arrive at your bus stop at least 5 minutes early.
Stand back from the roadway while waiting for the bus.
Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop and the driver signals that it's safe to board.
Never run toward or chase a moving bus.
If you must cross the road, always wait for your bus driver's signal and look both ways before crossing.
Never walk behind a school bus.
Parents and guardians, please take a few minutes to review these important reminders with your children.
Safe habits make safe Dragons!
School Bus Safety Week: STOP Means STOP!
Did you know that one of the greatest dangers to students riding school buses happens outside the bus?
When you see a school bus with its red lights flashing and stop arm extended, STOP and stay stopped!
Yellow flashing lights mean the bus is preparing to stop. Slow down and be ready to stop.
Red flashing lights and an extended stop arm mean students are loading or unloading. Stop as required by law.
Always watch for children near bus stops and never drive distracted.
Missouri law requires motorists to stop for school buses in many situations, with specific exceptions for certain divided or multi-lane roadways.
A few extra seconds of patience can help save a life!
Did you know that one of the greatest dangers to students riding school buses happens outside the bus?
When you see a school bus with its red lights flashing and stop arm extended, STOP and stay stopped!
Yellow flashing lights mean the bus is preparing to stop. Slow down and be ready to stop.
Red flashing lights and an extended stop arm mean students are loading or unloading. Stop as required by law.
Always watch for children near bus stops and never drive distracted.
Missouri law requires motorists to stop for school buses in many situations, with specific exceptions for certain divided or multi-lane roadways.
A few extra seconds of patience can help save a life!
MIDDLE SCHOOL BOYS BASKETBALL TRYOUTS!
Calling all future Dragon basketball players! It’s time to hit the court! De Soto Middle School Boys Basketball Tryouts are coming up!
Dates: October 26–28, 2026
Time: 3:00–5:00 PM
Location: De Soto High School Gym
What to Bring:
Basketball shoes and appropriate athletic clothing (shorts, etc.)
Players need to have up-to-date information in PRIVIT, including a valid physical to be eligible to participate.
Remind Code: fk2a6ck
Questions? Contact Coach Brendon Hardy at hardy.brendon@desoto.k12.mo.us.
We can’t wait to see our Dragons on the court! Good luck to everyone trying out!
Dragon Staff Spotlight: Meet Miss Julia Maness!
Please join us in welcoming Miss Julia Maness to the Dragon family as a Paraprofessional at De Soto Intermediate School!
Miss Julia is no stranger to Dragon Country! A proud 2024 graduate of De Soto High School, she is excited to return to the district in a new role, helping support our students and staff.
Outside of school, Miss Julia is a proud new mom to her sweet baby boy, Roman! She loves shopping and spending quality time with her family.
Miss Julia is looking forward to this exciting new chapter, making new friends, and building connections with our Intermediate students and staff!
We are excited to have Miss Julia back in Dragon Country!
Once a Dragon, Always a Dragon!**
Please join us in welcoming Miss Julia Maness to the Dragon family as a Paraprofessional at De Soto Intermediate School!
Miss Julia is no stranger to Dragon Country! A proud 2024 graduate of De Soto High School, she is excited to return to the district in a new role, helping support our students and staff.
Outside of school, Miss Julia is a proud new mom to her sweet baby boy, Roman! She loves shopping and spending quality time with her family.
Miss Julia is looking forward to this exciting new chapter, making new friends, and building connections with our Intermediate students and staff!
We are excited to have Miss Julia back in Dragon Country!
Once a Dragon, Always a Dragon!**
It's National School Bus Safety Week!
This week, we're highlighting the importance of school bus safety and reminding our Dragon families and community members that keeping students safe is everyone's responsibility!
Every school day, our dedicated bus drivers transport students to and from school, and we need everyone's help to make sure they arrive safely.
Throughout the week, we'll be sharing important safety tips for students, parents, and motorists.
Let's work together to keep our Dragons safe, one bus stop at a time!
This week, we're highlighting the importance of school bus safety and reminding our Dragon families and community members that keeping students safe is everyone's responsibility!
Every school day, our dedicated bus drivers transport students to and from school, and we need everyone's help to make sure they arrive safely.
Throughout the week, we'll be sharing important safety tips for students, parents, and motorists.
Let's work together to keep our Dragons safe, one bus stop at a time!
Dragon Staff Spotlight: Meet Ms. Ashley Lawrence!
Please join us in welcoming Ms. Ashley Lawrence to her new role as building Administrative Assistant at De Soto Intermediate School!
Ms. Lawrence is no stranger to the Dragon family! This is her 6th year with the De Soto School District, having previously served as a paraprofessional at the Intermediate.
When she's not at school, Ms. Lawrence loves spending time outdoors with her two children, her dog Percy, and her chickens! She enjoys exploring new parks, hiking, and making memories with her family.
We are excited to have Ms. Lawrence serving our Intermediate students, families, and staff in her new role!
Once a Dragon, Always a Dragon!
Please join us in welcoming Ms. Ashley Lawrence to her new role as building Administrative Assistant at De Soto Intermediate School!
Ms. Lawrence is no stranger to the Dragon family! This is her 6th year with the De Soto School District, having previously served as a paraprofessional at the Intermediate.
When she's not at school, Ms. Lawrence loves spending time outdoors with her two children, her dog Percy, and her chickens! She enjoys exploring new parks, hiking, and making memories with her family.
We are excited to have Ms. Lawrence serving our Intermediate students, families, and staff in her new role!
Once a Dragon, Always a Dragon!
Our Middle School Cheerleaders have been putting in the WORK this year!
From practices to game nights, these Dragons bring the energy, school spirit, and plenty of smiles! They love being on the sidelines and cheering on our Middle School Football team every step of the way.
We’re proud of their hard work, dedication, and the Dragon pride they bring to every game!
Keep it up! GO DRAGONS!
Reading, Writing, and Pizza Making at De Soto Intermediate!
Earlier this week, 4th grade students at De Soto Intermediate brought their reading to life after reading How Tía Lola Came to Stay!
Inspired by the pizza-making in the story, students had the opportunity to create their very own pizzas! Afterward, they put their writing skills to work by recording step-by-step directions for making their pizzas so they could share their recipes with their families at home.
What a fun and delicious way to connect reading, writing, and real-world skills!
Earlier this week, 4th grade students at De Soto Intermediate brought their reading to life after reading How Tía Lola Came to Stay!
Inspired by the pizza-making in the story, students had the opportunity to create their very own pizzas! Afterward, they put their writing skills to work by recording step-by-step directions for making their pizzas so they could share their recipes with their families at home.
What a fun and delicious way to connect reading, writing, and real-world skills!
