De Soto #73 School District
610 Vineland School Road De Soto, MO 63020 Phone 636-586-1000 Fax 636-586-1009
Happy Teacher Appreciation Week!
This week, we celebrate the incredible educators who make a difference in the lives of our students every single day. Your dedication, passion, and commitment to helping students learn and grow do not go unnoticed.
Thank you for the time you invest, the encouragement you give, and the positive impact you have both inside and outside the classroom. You are truly shaping the future, one student at a time.
We invite our families and community to join us in celebrating by sending a note or card of appreciation to a teacher this week. A few kind words can make a big difference!
We are grateful for all that you do—this week and every week!
This week, we celebrate the incredible educators who make a difference in the lives of our students every single day. Your dedication, passion, and commitment to helping students learn and grow do not go unnoticed.
Thank you for the time you invest, the encouragement you give, and the positive impact you have both inside and outside the classroom. You are truly shaping the future, one student at a time.
We invite our families and community to join us in celebrating by sending a note or card of appreciation to a teacher this week. A few kind words can make a big difference!
We are grateful for all that you do—this week and every week!
From 1st Base to Home Plate… let’s celebrate a great season!
Join us for a fun night at J.C. Culwell Stadium as we wrap up the season together with games, activities, and a movie under the lights!
May 19, 2026
6:00 PM
Movie: The Sandlot
Hot dogs, popcorn, and snacks available for purchase
$5 per person (All proceeds support the DMS Renaissance Program)
Hosted by De Soto Middle School—bring your family, friends, and your team spirit for a great night at the ballpark!
Join us for a fun night at J.C. Culwell Stadium as we wrap up the season together with games, activities, and a movie under the lights!
May 19, 2026
6:00 PM
Movie: The Sandlot
Hot dogs, popcorn, and snacks available for purchase
$5 per person (All proceeds support the DMS Renaissance Program)
Hosted by De Soto Middle School—bring your family, friends, and your team spirit for a great night at the ballpark!
Welcome to De Soto #73!
Please join us in welcoming Mrs. Tonya Sipp to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year!
Position/Title:
Special Education Process Coordinator
Building or Department:
Special Education
Previous Experience:
Mrs. Sipp began her career at Kingston K-14, where she taught first grade for 2 years and served as a Title I Math teacher for 7 years. She then transitioned to Potosi R-3, where she has spent the past 11 years as a Special Education BD/ED teacher. During that time, she also served as chair of the Building Leadership Team for 4 years and was an active member of both the Crisis and Culture teams.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby / What You’re Excited About:
Mrs. Sipp enjoys camping and traveling in her RV with her husband and her parents, who are retired Missouri school administrators. She also loves spending time with her two daughters and grandson. She feels honored to join the Dragon family and is looking forward to meeting and working with the staff and students of De Soto #73.
We’re excited to have Mrs. Sipp 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 Mrs. Tonya Sipp to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year!
Position/Title:
Special Education Process Coordinator
Building or Department:
Special Education
Previous Experience:
Mrs. Sipp began her career at Kingston K-14, where she taught first grade for 2 years and served as a Title I Math teacher for 7 years. She then transitioned to Potosi R-3, where she has spent the past 11 years as a Special Education BD/ED teacher. During that time, she also served as chair of the Building Leadership Team for 4 years and was an active member of both the Crisis and Culture teams.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby / What You’re Excited About:
Mrs. Sipp enjoys camping and traveling in her RV with her husband and her parents, who are retired Missouri school administrators. She also loves spending time with her two daughters and grandson. She feels honored to join the Dragon family and is looking forward to meeting and working with the staff and students of De Soto #73.
We’re excited to have Mrs. Sipp 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!
Do you need a flexible option for dropping off and picking up your kids? We’ve got you covered.
For the 2026–2027 school year, Y Club before- and after-school care will be available at De Soto Primary (Athena) and De Soto Intermediate (Vineland)—designed with busy families in mind.
One drop-off, one pick-up
Drop off your primary and intermediate students at a single location in the morning, and we’ll take care of getting them to the right school. After school, they’ll be transported back to the Y Club site—making pickup just as simple.
Flexible scheduling
Whether you need care every day or just a few days a week, Y Club offers options that fit your routine.
Safe, engaging environment
Students will be supported in a welcoming space that keeps them active, connected, and cared for before and after school.
Choose the location that works best for your family and enjoy a more convenient start and end to your day.
See flyer for more information.
For the 2026–2027 school year, Y Club before- and after-school care will be available at De Soto Primary (Athena) and De Soto Intermediate (Vineland)—designed with busy families in mind.
One drop-off, one pick-up
Drop off your primary and intermediate students at a single location in the morning, and we’ll take care of getting them to the right school. After school, they’ll be transported back to the Y Club site—making pickup just as simple.
Flexible scheduling
Whether you need care every day or just a few days a week, Y Club offers options that fit your routine.
Safe, engaging environment
Students will be supported in a welcoming space that keeps them active, connected, and cared for before and after school.
Choose the location that works best for your family and enjoy a more convenient start and end to your day.
See flyer for more information.
We’re Hiring: Director of Transportation
Join our team and help keep our students moving safely and efficiently each day!
Position: Director of Transportation
Starting Pay: $61,500 (based on experience)
Apply Today:
• Online at MOREAP.net
• In person at Central Office
610 Vineland School Rd.
De Soto, MO
Questions? Contact Mr. Josh Phipps
Be part of a team dedicated to supporting students and making a difference every day!
Congratulations to De Soto High School’s April Writing Contest winner, sophomore Alanna W.!
Her creative poem stood out among several impressive submissions, all centered around the prompt “The Perfect April Fool’s Prank.”
We’re proud to celebrate her creativity and talent—keep up the great work, Alanna!
Her creative poem stood out among several impressive submissions, all centered around the prompt “The Perfect April Fool’s Prank.”
We’re proud to celebrate her creativity and talent—keep up the great work, Alanna!
Welcome to De Soto #73!
Please join us in welcoming Mrs. Kathy Hess to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year!
Position/Title:
Paraprofessional
Building or Department:
Early Childhood Center (ECC)
Previous Experience:
Learning Consultant at Notre Dame High School
Professional School Counselor in the Ferguson-Florissant School District
Classroom Teacher at St. Matthias and in the Mehlville School District
Classroom Assistant at Clayton Child Center
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby / What You’re Excited About :
Mrs. Hess is from St. Louis and enjoys spending time with family and friends, as well as listening to music. She is especially excited to be working with the Little Dragons of De Soto!
We’re excited to have Mrs. Hess 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 Mrs. Kathy Hess to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year!
Position/Title:
Paraprofessional
Building or Department:
Early Childhood Center (ECC)
Previous Experience:
Learning Consultant at Notre Dame High School
Professional School Counselor in the Ferguson-Florissant School District
Classroom Teacher at St. Matthias and in the Mehlville School District
Classroom Assistant at Clayton Child Center
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby / What You’re Excited About :
Mrs. Hess is from St. Louis and enjoys spending time with family and friends, as well as listening to music. She is especially excited to be working with the Little Dragons of De Soto!
We’re excited to have Mrs. Hess 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 our incredible School Lunch Hero workers!
Behind every meal served is a team of dedicated individuals who show up each day to make sure our students are nourished, cared for, and ready to learn. From early mornings to busy lunch periods, their hard work often happens behind the scenes—but their impact is felt in every classroom.
Thank you for the kindness you show, the smiles you share, and the important role you play in supporting our students and schools. We appreciate you today and every day!
Behind every meal served is a team of dedicated individuals who show up each day to make sure our students are nourished, cared for, and ready to learn. From early mornings to busy lunch periods, their hard work often happens behind the scenes—but their impact is felt in every classroom.
Thank you for the kindness you show, the smiles you share, and the important role you play in supporting our students and schools. We appreciate you today and every day!
Today we recognize and celebrate our outstanding principals!
Our building leaders play a vital role in creating positive, safe, and supportive learning environments for both students and staff. Their leadership, dedication, and commitment help shape the success of our schools each and every day.
From supporting students and families to guiding staff and managing the many moving parts of a school, their impact reaches far beyond the walls of the building.
Thank you to our principals for all that you do to lead, inspire, and make a difference!
Our building leaders play a vital role in creating positive, safe, and supportive learning environments for both students and staff. Their leadership, dedication, and commitment help shape the success of our schools each and every day.
From supporting students and families to guiding staff and managing the many moving parts of a school, their impact reaches far beyond the walls of the building.
Thank you to our principals for all that you do to lead, inspire, and make a difference!
We’re proud to share that Mrs. Hodak has been awarded a grant from the Missouri State Teachers Foundation!
This grant will support a meaningful snack program. When students’ needs are met, they are more likely to build confidence, form positive relationships, and fully engage in their learning. Something as simple as a snack can make a lasting difference—and help ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed.
Thank you to the Missouri State Teachers Foundation for supporting our students, and thank you, Mrs. Hodak, for your dedication!
This grant will support a meaningful snack program. When students’ needs are met, they are more likely to build confidence, form positive relationships, and fully engage in their learning. Something as simple as a snack can make a lasting difference—and help ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed.
Thank you to the Missouri State Teachers Foundation for supporting our students, and thank you, Mrs. Hodak, for your dedication!
Dragon Families,
Please take a moment to read this important message regarding the 2026-2027 school year.
The Annual Student Information Renewal in Infinite Campus for the 2026-2027 school year will close tomorrow. While this information is for next year, it must be completed now so we can accurately plan schedules, transportation, staffing, and student services.
If you have not completed this process yet, please do so as soon as possible.
How to complete the renewal:
- Log in to your Infinite Campus Parent Portal: https://desoto73.infinitecampus.org/.../parents/desoto.jsp
- Select "More" from the menu
- Click "Annual Student Information Renewal"
- Review and update your student's information, then submit
When selecting "Contact Preferences," please be aware that if you choose "Private" for any field, you will not receive direct communication from the district. This setting prevents our third-party communication system from being able to call, text, or email you. Please know that the district will never sell your information.
Thank you for taking the time to complete this important step. Your partnership helps us ensure a smooth, organized, and successful start to the 2026–2027 school year for every student.
Please take a moment to read this important message regarding the 2026-2027 school year.
The Annual Student Information Renewal in Infinite Campus for the 2026-2027 school year will close tomorrow. While this information is for next year, it must be completed now so we can accurately plan schedules, transportation, staffing, and student services.
If you have not completed this process yet, please do so as soon as possible.
How to complete the renewal:
- Log in to your Infinite Campus Parent Portal: https://desoto73.infinitecampus.org/.../parents/desoto.jsp
- Select "More" from the menu
- Click "Annual Student Information Renewal"
- Review and update your student's information, then submit
When selecting "Contact Preferences," please be aware that if you choose "Private" for any field, you will not receive direct communication from the district. This setting prevents our third-party communication system from being able to call, text, or email you. Please know that the district will never sell your information.
Thank you for taking the time to complete this important step. Your partnership helps us ensure a smooth, organized, and successful start to the 2026–2027 school year for every student.
Reminder for our De Soto #73 families and staff:
The last day of school will remain Wednesday, May 20, as we did not need to make up any inclement weather days this year.
Please note that this will be an early release day.
We look forward to finishing the school year strong—thank you for your continued support!
The last day of school will remain Wednesday, May 20, as we did not need to make up any inclement weather days this year.
Please note that this will be an early release day.
We look forward to finishing the school year strong—thank you for your continued support!
Today we had the opportunity to celebrate our talented students with a State Sendoff for Solo & Ensemble Band and Choir as they prepare for the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) State competition!
We are incredibly proud of the dedication, hard work, and passion these students have shown to reach this level. Representing our district on the state stage is a tremendous accomplishment.
Good luck at State—we are cheering you on every step of the way!
We are incredibly proud of the dedication, hard work, and passion these students have shown to reach this level. Representing our district on the state stage is a tremendous accomplishment.
Good luck at State—we are cheering you on every step of the way!
De Soto Girls Basketball Camp
Calling all future Lady Dragons! Join us for a fun and skill-building basketball camp this May at the DHS Gym.
May 26–May 28
DHS Gym
Camp Times:
• Grades 1–5: 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM
• Grades 6–8: 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
This is a great opportunity for students to grow their skills, build confidence, and have fun with teammates and coaches.
Scan the QR code on the flyer to register or visit the district website and click on "Athletics" and look for "Athletic and Activities Web Store - Camp Registration"
Questions? Contact Coach Fox at fox.james@desoto.k12.mo.us
We look forward to seeing you on the court!
Welcome to De Soto #73!
Please join us in welcoming Ms. Jessica Anderson to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year!
Position/Title:
Family and Consumer Science Teacher
Building or Department:
De Soto High School
Previous Experience :
Ms. Anderson completed her student teaching at Ste. Genevieve High School and Jackson High School. She also served as a substitute teacher for the Ste. Genevieve School District.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby / What You’re Excited About:
Ms. Anderson is excited to be returning to De Soto High School as an alumna. She enjoys binge-watching TV shows and movies, cooking, baking, and spending time with her three daughters. She is especially looking forward to inspiring her students alongside some of the same teachers who once inspired her, and to watching her students grow while learning valuable life skills in her FACS classes.
We’re excited to have Ms. Anderson 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. Jessica Anderson to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year!
Position/Title:
Family and Consumer Science Teacher
Building or Department:
De Soto High School
Previous Experience :
Ms. Anderson completed her student teaching at Ste. Genevieve High School and Jackson High School. She also served as a substitute teacher for the Ste. Genevieve School District.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby / What You’re Excited About:
Ms. Anderson is excited to be returning to De Soto High School as an alumna. She enjoys binge-watching TV shows and movies, cooking, baking, and spending time with her three daughters. She is especially looking forward to inspiring her students alongside some of the same teachers who once inspired her, and to watching her students grow while learning valuable life skills in her FACS classes.
We’re excited to have Ms. Anderson 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!
Happy School Bus Driver Appreciation Day!
Today we celebrate the heroes behind the wheel. Our drivers are more than just navigators; they are the first friendly faces our students see each morning and the guardians who ensure everyone gets home safely.
Let’s show some love:
Wave big at the bus stop today!
Say "Thank You" during drop-off.
Drop a comment below to shout out your favorite driver!
To our entire transportation team: Thank you for your dedication, your patience, and for keeping our district moving!
Today we celebrate the heroes behind the wheel. Our drivers are more than just navigators; they are the first friendly faces our students see each morning and the guardians who ensure everyone gets home safely.
Let’s show some love:
Wave big at the bus stop today!
Say "Thank You" during drop-off.
Drop a comment below to shout out your favorite driver!
To our entire transportation team: Thank you for your dedication, your patience, and for keeping our district moving!
3rd Grade Archery Camp – Sign Up Now!
De Soto Archery is excited to offer a 3rd Grade Elementary Camp for our young archers!
May 12–14
6:00–7:00 PM
High School East Gym
Equipment provided
Just wear PE clothes and come ready to learn!
Sign up on the De Soto website under Athletics & Camps
Have questions? Contact: Solomon.danielle@desoto.k12.mo.us
Don’t miss this great opportunity to learn the basics of archery in a fun and supportive environment!
De Soto Archery is excited to offer a 3rd Grade Elementary Camp for our young archers!
May 12–14
6:00–7:00 PM
High School East Gym
Equipment provided
Just wear PE clothes and come ready to learn!
Sign up on the De Soto website under Athletics & Camps
Have questions? Contact: Solomon.danielle@desoto.k12.mo.us
Don’t miss this great opportunity to learn the basics of archery in a fun and supportive environment!
Last week, the De Soto High School golf team celebrated their seniors. We are grateful for their leadership, dedication, and the positive impact they have made on the program and school community. We wish them continued success in all that lies ahead.
On the course, the JV boys team earned a strong 5th place finish at the Perryville Tournament—great job representing De Soto!
Congratulations to Landon T. for medaling in 7th place this week. An outstanding accomplishment!
Keep up the great work, Dragons!
On the course, the JV boys team earned a strong 5th place finish at the Perryville Tournament—great job representing De Soto!
Congratulations to Landon T. for medaling in 7th place this week. An outstanding accomplishment!
Keep up the great work, Dragons!
At last week’s Board of Education meeting, the De Soto #73 School District proudly recognized members of Athena Elementary’s Sunshine Committee:
Faith Wilkerson
Tiffani Fluck
Ashley Emmons
Mikayla Dierker
These dedicated staff members go above and beyond to support their colleagues—meeting monthly to provide treats, meals, and engaging activities that bring positivity and connection to their building. Their efforts are done entirely on their own time, often using their own resources to make each experience meaningful.
Their commitment to supporting others helps strengthen the culture at Athena and reflects the care and pride seen across our district. We are grateful for their continued dedication to our staff and school community!
Class of 2026 Graduation
We are excited to celebrate the De Soto High School Class of 2026 at graduation!
Friday, May 15
7:30 PM
J.C. Culwell Stadium
Join us as we honor this incredible group of seniors and their achievements. It’s a night you won’t want to miss!
We are excited to celebrate the De Soto High School Class of 2026 at graduation!
Friday, May 15
7:30 PM
J.C. Culwell Stadium
Join us as we honor this incredible group of seniors and their achievements. It’s a night you won’t want to miss!
