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 Thursday, July 16, 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, July 16, 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 New District Website & Mobile App Are Now Live!
We are excited to announce that our new district website and mobile app are officially live!
As part of this transition, our new district website can now be accessed at:
Our new website and mobile app provide families with an updated, more user-friendly way to access district news, calendars, staff directories, notifications, menus, and other important resources—all in one place.
Download the De Soto #73 app for Apple
Download the De Soto #73 app for Android
We encourage all families, students, staff, and community members to visit the new website and download the De Soto #73 School District mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to stay connected.
Thank you for your continued support. We hope you enjoy the new experience!
Now Hiring – Join the De Soto #73 Transportation Team!
We’re looking for dependable and caring individuals to help safely transport our students each day. Current openings include:
Bus Drivers
Bus Mechanic
Substitute Bus Drivers
If you are interested in making a difference and becoming part of an amazing team, we would love to hear from you!
Contact April McKinney at mckinney.april@desoto.k12.mo.us
636-586-1078
Apply today and help keep our Dragons moving!
We’re looking for dependable and caring individuals to help safely transport our students each day. Current openings include:
Bus Drivers
Bus Mechanic
Substitute Bus Drivers
If you are interested in making a difference and becoming part of an amazing team, we would love to hear from you!
Contact April McKinney at mckinney.april@desoto.k12.mo.us
636-586-1078
Apply today and help keep our Dragons moving!
Dragon Families! Transportation Information is Now Available!
Transportation information for the 2026-2027 school year is now available in your Infinite Campus Parent Portal!
We're excited to provide this information earlier than ever before to help your family prepare for the upcoming school year. Please remember that transportation routes may continue to change throughout the summer as students enroll in or leave the district.
Need to request a change?
If your student's transportation information is incorrect, please contact our Transportation Department at 636-586-1078. If you leave a voicemail, please include:
-Student's first and last name
-Grade and school
-New bus stop or address
-Whether the change is for AM, PM, or both
-A brief description of the requested change
You may also email:
April McKinney – mckinney.april@desoto.k12.mo.us
Monica Nichol – nichol.monica@desoto.k12.mo.us
Please allow 48 hours for changes to be processed before following up.
A few important reminders:
-Bus routes may continue to change as updates are made throughout the summer.
-If your student is assigned transportation but will not be riding the bus, please let the Transportation Department know.
-Sunrise students' transportation information will not appear in the Parent Portal.
-Students who receive transportation through an IEP may not yet have transportation information available. Those routes are expected to be completed and visible by the end of next week.
Thank you for your patience and partnership as we prepare for another great school year. We can't wait to welcome our Dragons back soon!
Transportation information for the 2026-2027 school year is now available in your Infinite Campus Parent Portal!
We're excited to provide this information earlier than ever before to help your family prepare for the upcoming school year. Please remember that transportation routes may continue to change throughout the summer as students enroll in or leave the district.
Need to request a change?
If your student's transportation information is incorrect, please contact our Transportation Department at 636-586-1078. If you leave a voicemail, please include:
-Student's first and last name
-Grade and school
-New bus stop or address
-Whether the change is for AM, PM, or both
-A brief description of the requested change
You may also email:
April McKinney – mckinney.april@desoto.k12.mo.us
Monica Nichol – nichol.monica@desoto.k12.mo.us
Please allow 48 hours for changes to be processed before following up.
A few important reminders:
-Bus routes may continue to change as updates are made throughout the summer.
-If your student is assigned transportation but will not be riding the bus, please let the Transportation Department know.
-Sunrise students' transportation information will not appear in the Parent Portal.
-Students who receive transportation through an IEP may not yet have transportation information available. Those routes are expected to be completed and visible by the end of next week.
Thank you for your patience and partnership as we prepare for another great school year. We can't wait to welcome our Dragons back soon!
Thank You to Our Platinum Sponsor, State Farm Agent Sandy Meurer!
We are incredibly grateful for State Farm Agent Sandy Meurer and their continued partnership and support of the De Soto #73 School District. Community partners like you help create opportunities for our students, strengthen school experiences, and make a lasting impact across our district.
Thank you for investing in our schools, supporting our community, and being an important part of the Dragon family. We appreciate your continued commitment and partnership! #PartneringTogether
We are incredibly grateful for State Farm Agent Sandy Meurer and their continued partnership and support of the De Soto #73 School District. Community partners like you help create opportunities for our students, strengthen school experiences, and make a lasting impact across our district.
Thank you for investing in our schools, supporting our community, and being an important part of the Dragon family. We appreciate your continued commitment and partnership! #PartneringTogether
At last month’s Board of Education meeting, the District recognized Landon Porter, Jeff Tidwell, and Dylan Isaac for their outstanding support of the Dragon Annex during this summer’s transition efforts.
These gentlemen generously volunteered their time and energy for a seven-hour day of moving furniture and materials to help relocate the Dragon Annex to its new location in the basement of DMS. Their hard work helped ensure furniture and boxed items were moved safely and efficiently—and Mr. Isaac even provided his own truck and trailer to support the effort.
While our incredible maintenance and custodial teams continue managing large-scale summer construction and relocation projects across the district, their willingness to step in created valuable time and flexibility for staff to focus on other major district priorities.
Because of their dedication and teamwork, the Dragon Annex is one step closer to being ready to support student success this fall. Thank you for your service, your generosity, and for demonstrating what it means to be part of the Dragon community.
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.
At last month's Board of Education meeting, Athena Elementary proudly recognized Mrs. Stephanie Kitchell for her outstanding dedication to our students, families, and staff.
Mrs. Kitchell is a constant source of support, always willing to step in wherever she is needed. She never shies away from a challenge and consistently provides honest, thoughtful, and encouraging guidance when difficult decisions need to be made.
Much of Mrs. Kitchell's work happens behind the scenes, often without recognition, as she works tirelessly to ensure every decision is made with the best interests of students in mind. Her compassion, professionalism, and unwavering commitment make a lasting impact on our school community each and every day.
Thank you, Mrs. Kitchell, for all that you do. We appreciate you more than words can express!
Mrs. Kitchell is a constant source of support, always willing to step in wherever she is needed. She never shies away from a challenge and consistently provides honest, thoughtful, and encouraging guidance when difficult decisions need to be made.
Much of Mrs. Kitchell's work happens behind the scenes, often without recognition, as she works tirelessly to ensure every decision is made with the best interests of students in mind. Her compassion, professionalism, and unwavering commitment make a lasting impact on our school community each and every day.
Thank you, Mrs. Kitchell, for all that you do. We appreciate you more than words can express!
🎆 Happy Fourth of July from De Soto School District! 🇺🇸
Today, our Director of Transportation and several of our dedicated bus drivers proudly represented De Soto #73 School District in the community Fourth of July Parade!
We are grateful for their willingness to spend part of their holiday celebrating with our community and showcasing the pride they have in serving our students and families each day.
Thank you to everyone who came out to enjoy the parade. We hope you have a safe, fun, and memorable Independence Day!
As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence, De Soto #73 School District wishes our students, families, staff, alumni, and community a safe and happy Fourth of July!
Today, we honor the ideals of freedom, unity, and opportunity that continue to shape our nation and inspire future generations. We are also grateful to the brave men and women—past and present—whose service and sacrifice have protected those freedoms.
Whether you're spending the day with family, enjoying community celebrations, or watching fireworks, we hope you have a wonderful and safe holiday.
Happy Independence Day!
Today, we honor the ideals of freedom, unity, and opportunity that continue to shape our nation and inspire future generations. We are also grateful to the brave men and women—past and present—whose service and sacrifice have protected those freedoms.
Whether you're spending the day with family, enjoying community celebrations, or watching fireworks, we hope you have a wonderful and safe holiday.
Happy Independence Day!
Athena Elementary Celebrates Perfect Attendance!
At last month's Board of Education meeting, Athena Elementary proudly recognized four students who achieved perfect attendance during the 2025–2026 school year!
Congratulations to:
Havannah P.
Logan P. (not pictured)
Emmersyn F. (not pictured)
Camden F. (not pictured)
Achieving perfect attendance is no small accomplishment. It reflects dedication, commitment, and the importance these students place on their education. It also highlights the incredible support of their families, whose encouragement and commitment help make this achievement possible.
Congratulations to these outstanding students on this remarkable accomplishment! We are proud of your hard work and dedication.
At last month's Board of Education meeting, Athena Elementary proudly recognized four students who achieved perfect attendance during the 2025–2026 school year!
Congratulations to:
Havannah P.
Logan P. (not pictured)
Emmersyn F. (not pictured)
Camden F. (not pictured)
Achieving perfect attendance is no small accomplishment. It reflects dedication, commitment, and the importance these students place on their education. It also highlights the incredible support of their families, whose encouragement and commitment help make this achievement possible.
Congratulations to these outstanding students on this remarkable accomplishment! We are proud of your hard work and dedication.
Holiday Closure Notice
In observance of Independence Day, all De Soto #73 School District offices will be closed on Friday, July 3.
Regular office hours will resume following the holiday. We hope everyone has a safe, relaxing, and enjoyable Fourth of July weekend celebrating with family and friends!
In observance of Independence Day, all De Soto #73 School District offices will be closed on Friday, July 3.
Regular office hours will resume following the holiday. We hope everyone has a safe, relaxing, and enjoyable Fourth of July weekend celebrating with family and friends!
Thank You to Our Bronze Sponsor, Valvoline Express Care!
We are grateful for Valvoline Express Care and their continued support of the De Soto #73 School District. Partnerships like yours help create opportunities for our students, support meaningful experiences, and strengthen connections throughout our schools and community.
Thank you for investing in our district and being a valued part of the Dragon family. Your partnership and support are truly appreciated! #PartneringTogether
We are grateful for Valvoline Express Care and their continued support of the De Soto #73 School District. Partnerships like yours help create opportunities for our students, support meaningful experiences, and strengthen connections throughout our schools and community.
Thank you for investing in our district and being a valued part of the Dragon family. Your partnership and support are truly appreciated! #PartneringTogether
Summer may mean students are away, but the work doesn’t stop!
Our custodial team is still hard at work behind the scenes preparing our buildings for another incredible school year. From deep cleaning classrooms and hallways to moving furniture, supporting summer construction projects, and making sure every space is clean, safe, and ready to welcome students back—our custodians do it all.
Their dedication throughout the summer helps set the stage for a successful start to the school year, and we are incredibly grateful for everything they do for De Soto #73.
Thank you to our amazing custodial staff for your continued hard work and commitment to our schools!
Our custodial team is still hard at work behind the scenes preparing our buildings for another incredible school year. From deep cleaning classrooms and hallways to moving furniture, supporting summer construction projects, and making sure every space is clean, safe, and ready to welcome students back—our custodians do it all.
Their dedication throughout the summer helps set the stage for a successful start to the school year, and we are incredibly grateful for everything they do for De Soto #73.
Thank you to our amazing custodial staff for your continued hard work and commitment to our schools!
Thank You to Our Silver Sponsor, Pettus Automotive!
We are grateful for Point Automotive and their continued partnership and support of the De Soto #73 School District.
Community partners like you help create opportunities for our students, strengthen experiences across our district, and make a lasting impact on our schools and families.
Thank you for investing in our students and being part of the Dragon family. We appreciate your support and partnership! #PartneringTogether
We are grateful for Point Automotive and their continued partnership and support of the De Soto #73 School District.
Community partners like you help create opportunities for our students, strengthen experiences across our district, and make a lasting impact on our schools and families.
Thank you for investing in our students and being part of the Dragon family. We appreciate your support and partnership! #PartneringTogether
Thank You to Our Bronze Sponsor, Pogolino’s Pizza!
We are grateful for Pogolino’s Pizza and their continued support of the De Soto #73 School District. Community partners like you help create meaningful opportunities for our students, support school experiences, and strengthen connections across our district.
Thank you for investing in our schools and being a valued part of the Dragon family. We appreciate your partnership and support! #PartneringTogether
We are grateful for Pogolino’s Pizza and their continued support of the De Soto #73 School District. Community partners like you help create meaningful opportunities for our students, support school experiences, and strengthen connections across our district.
Thank you for investing in our schools and being a valued part of the Dragon family. We appreciate your partnership and support! #PartneringTogether
We’re proud to celebrate our Board of Education for being recognized at the Summer Summit!
Their dedication to strong leadership and continuous improvement was on full display as they were honored alongside districts from across the state. These photos capture the moment, along with group shots for each designation: Advanced; Masters (Mrs. Coleman, as Mr. Ferrell was unable to attend); and Distinguished (Mr. Golightly and Mrs. Wilson).
In addition to these recognitions, our board earned the prestigious Governance Award and was one of just three districts to receive this year’s list awards—an outstanding accomplishment that reflects their commitment to serving our students, staff, and community.
Please join us in congratulating our Board of Education on this well-deserved recognition!
Their dedication to strong leadership and continuous improvement was on full display as they were honored alongside districts from across the state. These photos capture the moment, along with group shots for each designation: Advanced; Masters (Mrs. Coleman, as Mr. Ferrell was unable to attend); and Distinguished (Mr. Golightly and Mrs. Wilson).
In addition to these recognitions, our board earned the prestigious Governance Award and was one of just three districts to receive this year’s list awards—an outstanding accomplishment that reflects their commitment to serving our students, staff, and community.
Please join us in congratulating our Board of Education on this well-deserved recognition!
Thank you to our Gold Sponsor, Roberts ,Wooten, Zimmer Law Firm, for your continued support and partnership with the De Soto #73 School District!
Community partnerships like yours help create meaningful opportunities for our students, staff, and families while strengthening the experiences that make our district special. We are grateful for your investment in our schools and your commitment to helping our Dragons succeed.
Thank you for being part of the De Soto family and making a difference in our community! #PartneringTogether
Community partnerships like yours help create meaningful opportunities for our students, staff, and families while strengthening the experiences that make our district special. We are grateful for your investment in our schools and your commitment to helping our Dragons succeed.
Thank you for being part of the De Soto family and making a difference in our community! #PartneringTogether
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.
Thank you to our Platinum Sponsor, First State Community Bank, for your continued partnership and support of the De Soto #73 School District!
Community partnerships like yours help create meaningful opportunities for our students, staff, and families while strengthening the experiences we are able to provide across our district.
We are grateful for your investment in our schools and your commitment to making a positive impact in our community. Thank you for being part of the Dragon family! #PartneringTogether
Community partnerships like yours help create meaningful opportunities for our students, staff, and families while strengthening the experiences we are able to provide across our district.
We are grateful for your investment in our schools and your commitment to making a positive impact in our community. Thank you for being part of the Dragon family! #PartneringTogether
