De Soto #73 School District
610 Vineland School Road De Soto, MO 63020 Phone 636-586-1000 Fax 636-586-1009
Please join us in congratulating Mrs. Kitchell, counselor at De Soto Middle School, on being named the Jefferson County Middle School Counselor of the Year—a truly well-deserved honor!
Mrs. Kitchell consistently goes above and beyond for our students and staff. Her office is a welcoming space where students know they can be heard, supported, and guided. Whether helping a student through a difficult situation or providing proactive support, she leads with compassion, professionalism, and care.
She also plays a vital role behind the scenes—closely monitoring student progress, tracking grades, and ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed. Her attention to detail and commitment help make a lasting impact across the building. And on top of it all, she manages the ever-changing master schedule with flexibility, problem-solving, and patience.
Mrs. Kitchell’s dedication and heart for students make her an invaluable part of our school community. This recognition reflects the difference she makes each and every day.
Congratulations, Mrs. Kitchell! We are proud to have you as part of the De Soto #73 family!
Mrs. Kitchell consistently goes above and beyond for our students and staff. Her office is a welcoming space where students know they can be heard, supported, and guided. Whether helping a student through a difficult situation or providing proactive support, she leads with compassion, professionalism, and care.
She also plays a vital role behind the scenes—closely monitoring student progress, tracking grades, and ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed. Her attention to detail and commitment help make a lasting impact across the building. And on top of it all, she manages the ever-changing master schedule with flexibility, problem-solving, and patience.
Mrs. Kitchell’s dedication and heart for students make her an invaluable part of our school community. This recognition reflects the difference she makes each and every day.
Congratulations, Mrs. Kitchell! We are proud to have you as part of the De Soto #73 family!
Happy Administrative Professionals Day!
Today we recognize and celebrate the incredible individuals who keep our schools and offices running smoothly each and every day. Our administrative assistants are often the first friendly face you see and the steady support behind the scenes—managing communications, supporting students and staff, and helping ensure everything stays organized and on track.
Their dedication, attention to detail, and commitment to our district make a difference in ways both big and small. We are grateful for all they do to support our mission of ensuring learning, growth, and success for all students in a safe environment.
Please join us in thanking our administrative professionals for their hard work and the positive impact they make in our schools every day!
Today we recognize and celebrate the incredible individuals who keep our schools and offices running smoothly each and every day. Our administrative assistants are often the first friendly face you see and the steady support behind the scenes—managing communications, supporting students and staff, and helping ensure everything stays organized and on track.
Their dedication, attention to detail, and commitment to our district make a difference in ways both big and small. We are grateful for all they do to support our mission of ensuring learning, growth, and success for all students in a safe environment.
Please join us in thanking our administrative professionals for their hard work and the positive impact they make in our schools every day!
At last week’s Board of Education meeting, the De Soto #73 School District proudly recognized our outstanding Archery students for their performance at the Missouri State Competition!
Our archery program continues to grow in both participation and performance, with students competing against more than 300 schools across the state. We are incredibly proud of their dedication, improvement, and success!
High School Bullseye Results
Jada K. – 266
Gary H. – 266
Bailee S. – 263
Middle School Bullseye Results
Colton C. – 284 (Personal Best)
Alyssa B. – 264 (Personal Best)
Carter K. – 259
Athena Elementary Bullseye Results
Corbin K. – 232
Lestant F. – 230
Elizabeth M. – 216 (Personal Best)
Vineland Elementary Bullseye Results
Morgan G. – 205
Evan D. – 203
Gavin R. – 181
State 3D Competition – High School
Jada K. – 251
Lily R. – 250
Gary H. – 247
State 3D Competition – Middle School
Kolton C. – 273
Carter K. – 255
Mason K. – 253
Athena Elementary – 3D
Corbin K. – 228 (Personal Best)
Teagynn B. – 204 (Personal Best)
Lestant F. – 203
Vineland Elementary – 3D
Evan D. – 216
Morgan G. – 197
From personal bests to strong finishes among hundreds of competitors, these students represented De Soto with pride. Congratulations to all of our archers on an incredible season—we are proud of you!
Our archery program continues to grow in both participation and performance, with students competing against more than 300 schools across the state. We are incredibly proud of their dedication, improvement, and success!
High School Bullseye Results
Jada K. – 266
Gary H. – 266
Bailee S. – 263
Middle School Bullseye Results
Colton C. – 284 (Personal Best)
Alyssa B. – 264 (Personal Best)
Carter K. – 259
Athena Elementary Bullseye Results
Corbin K. – 232
Lestant F. – 230
Elizabeth M. – 216 (Personal Best)
Vineland Elementary Bullseye Results
Morgan G. – 205
Evan D. – 203
Gavin R. – 181
State 3D Competition – High School
Jada K. – 251
Lily R. – 250
Gary H. – 247
State 3D Competition – Middle School
Kolton C. – 273
Carter K. – 255
Mason K. – 253
Athena Elementary – 3D
Corbin K. – 228 (Personal Best)
Teagynn B. – 204 (Personal Best)
Lestant F. – 203
Vineland Elementary – 3D
Evan D. – 216
Morgan G. – 197
From personal bests to strong finishes among hundreds of competitors, these students represented De Soto with pride. Congratulations to all of our archers on an incredible season—we are proud of you!
Today, our district had the honor of hosting the Special Olympics, and it was truly an unforgettable day!
Our campus was filled with energy, determination, and joy as athletes from across the area came together to compete, support one another, and celebrate their accomplishments. Events like this highlight the true spirit of inclusion—bringing athletes of all abilities together to showcase their talents, build confidence, and create lasting friendships.
The Special Olympics movement is centered around providing opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, and experience the joy of competition while being part of a supportive community . Today, we saw that mission come to life right here in our district.
Thank you to our staff, students, volunteers, and community members who helped make this day possible. Your support and encouragement made a meaningful impact on every athlete who participated.
We are proud to be part of a community that celebrates inclusion, kindness, and the success of every individual. #PartneringTogether
Our campus was filled with energy, determination, and joy as athletes from across the area came together to compete, support one another, and celebrate their accomplishments. Events like this highlight the true spirit of inclusion—bringing athletes of all abilities together to showcase their talents, build confidence, and create lasting friendships.
The Special Olympics movement is centered around providing opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, and experience the joy of competition while being part of a supportive community . Today, we saw that mission come to life right here in our district.
Thank you to our staff, students, volunteers, and community members who helped make this day possible. Your support and encouragement made a meaningful impact on every athlete who participated.
We are proud to be part of a community that celebrates inclusion, kindness, and the success of every individual. #PartneringTogether
We Are Hiring!
The De Soto #73 School District is currently seeking a Speech Language Pathologist to join our team and help support the learning, growth, and success of our students.
Starting Pay: $51,250
Interested in making a difference for students in our district?
Apply in person:
De Soto #73 School District Central Office
610 Vineland School Rd. De Soto MO, 63020
Apply online:
MoReap.net
Questions?
Contact Christina Bourbon
bourbon.christina@desoto.k12.mo.us
The De Soto #73 School District is currently seeking a Speech Language Pathologist to join our team and help support the learning, growth, and success of our students.
Starting Pay: $51,250
Interested in making a difference for students in our district?
Apply in person:
De Soto #73 School District Central Office
610 Vineland School Rd. De Soto MO, 63020
Apply online:
MoReap.net
Questions?
Contact Christina Bourbon
bourbon.christina@desoto.k12.mo.us
Congratulations to our Athena Dragons on the Go!
The Athena girls running club has officially completed their season, and we are proud to celebrate their incredible achievement! Together, these dedicated runners met their goal of 575 miles, with some students running the equivalent of three full marathons throughout the season.
Their commitment, determination, and teamwork are a true reflection of the excellence we strive for across our district.
We also extend our sincere thanks to Marathon Connect Kids for their support in making this program possible and helping our students stay active and engaged.
The Athena girls running club has officially completed their season, and we are proud to celebrate their incredible achievement! Together, these dedicated runners met their goal of 575 miles, with some students running the equivalent of three full marathons throughout the season.
Their commitment, determination, and teamwork are a true reflection of the excellence we strive for across our district.
We also extend our sincere thanks to Marathon Connect Kids for their support in making this program possible and helping our students stay active and engaged.
Mr. Huey’s Hunter Education class has been hard at work learning the proper and safe way to clean and load a firearm as part of their hands-on instruction.
Thanks to a grant from the Missouri Department of Conservation, our district now has its own equipment set to use year-round. This means students will have more consistent access to these learning tools, rather than relying on limited-time use.
We are grateful for this opportunity to expand hands-on learning experiences and continue providing valuable, safety-focused education for our students.
Thanks to a grant from the Missouri Department of Conservation, our district now has its own equipment set to use year-round. This means students will have more consistent access to these learning tools, rather than relying on limited-time use.
We are grateful for this opportunity to expand hands-on learning experiences and continue providing valuable, safety-focused education for our students.
Student Recognition
De Soto High School faculty and staff selected senior Brenton D. to represent the school at this year’s Twin City Youth Appreciation Luncheon—an honor that reflects his outstanding character, commitment to personal excellence, and positive impact on both our school and community.
Brenton was recognized on Thursday, April 9, during a special ceremony at Taytro’s Restaurant hosted by the Twin City Area Optimist Club. He is the son of Ben and Kelly Drummond.
Congratulations, Brenton, on this well-deserved recognition!
De Soto High School faculty and staff selected senior Brenton D. to represent the school at this year’s Twin City Youth Appreciation Luncheon—an honor that reflects his outstanding character, commitment to personal excellence, and positive impact on both our school and community.
Brenton was recognized on Thursday, April 9, during a special ceremony at Taytro’s Restaurant hosted by the Twin City Area Optimist Club. He is the son of Ben and Kelly Drummond.
Congratulations, Brenton, on this well-deserved recognition!
Welcome to De Soto #73!
Please join us in welcoming Ms. Kristin Casey to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year!
Position/Title:
First Grade Teacher
Building or Department:
Athena Elementary School
Previous Experience:
5 years of experience in the Fort Zumwalt School District and 2 years with the Jefferson R-7 School District
Fun Fact / What She’s Excited About:
Ms. Casey is a De Soto High School graduate! She enjoys watching her kids’ sports—especially DHS baseball and soccer—spoiling her dog, and traveling with her family. She’s excited to meet the staff at Athena and begin building relationships with her new first graders.
We’re excited to have Ms. Casey 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. Kristin Casey to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year!
Position/Title:
First Grade Teacher
Building or Department:
Athena Elementary School
Previous Experience:
5 years of experience in the Fort Zumwalt School District and 2 years with the Jefferson R-7 School District
Fun Fact / What She’s Excited About:
Ms. Casey is a De Soto High School graduate! She enjoys watching her kids’ sports—especially DHS baseball and soccer—spoiling her dog, and traveling with her family. She’s excited to meet the staff at Athena and begin building relationships with her new first graders.
We’re excited to have Ms. Casey join our team and can’t wait for the positive impact she’ll make with our students and families. Please help us give her a warm Dragon welcome!
We’re Hiring for 2026–2027!
The De Soto #73 School District is looking for passionate, dedicated educators to join our team for the upcoming school year!
We are currently seeking highly qualified candidates for the following positions:
• Parents as Teachers Educator
• Intermediate (Grades 3–5) Special Education Behavior Resource Teacher
• Intermediate (Grades 3–5) Special Education Behavior Self-Contained Teacher
• High School Social Studies Teacher
• High School FACS Teacher
• Middle School Special Education Teacher
• Middle School Social Studies Teacher
• Primary (Grades K-2) Special Education Self-Contained Teacher
• Kindergarten Teacher
Join a district committed to ensuring learning, growth, and success for all students in a safe environment.
Apply online today or share with someone who would be a great fit!
We are pleased to welcome back Tarrole Milfeld, Mark Ferrell, and Trish Coleman, who each ran unopposed and will continue their service on the Board of Education—a voluntary position dedicated to supporting our District.
Thank you for your ongoing commitment to our students, staff, and community!
Thank you for your ongoing commitment to our students, staff, and community!
2026–2027 School Year: Key Dates to Know!
Take a moment to review the attached graphic highlighting important dates for the upcoming school year, including the first and last day of school, scheduled breaks, and other key events.
For the complete calendar and additional details, please visit the district website.
Take a moment to review the attached graphic highlighting important dates for the upcoming school year, including the first and last day of school, scheduled breaks, and other key events.
For the complete calendar and additional details, please visit the district website.
Dragon Spotlight: College Signing Celebration
The De Soto #73 School District is proud to recognize Connor H. on his commitment to continue his academic and athletic career at Westminster College, where he will play baseball!
During his time at De Soto High School, Connor was also actively involved in Student Council (STUCO), demonstrating leadership both on and off the field.
“I have only ever wanted to get better and compete at the highest level I can and this program gave me that opportunity for four years. I am forever thankful for this program!”
“I am very excited to grow in every way I possibly can and compete at the next level.”
Connor’s dedication, work ethic, and commitment to improvement have made a lasting impact on our program. We are excited to see all that he will accomplish at the next level!
Congratulations, Connor! Once a Dragon, always a Dragon!
The De Soto #73 School District is proud to recognize Connor H. on his commitment to continue his academic and athletic career at Westminster College, where he will play baseball!
During his time at De Soto High School, Connor was also actively involved in Student Council (STUCO), demonstrating leadership both on and off the field.
“I have only ever wanted to get better and compete at the highest level I can and this program gave me that opportunity for four years. I am forever thankful for this program!”
“I am very excited to grow in every way I possibly can and compete at the next level.”
Connor’s dedication, work ethic, and commitment to improvement have made a lasting impact on our program. We are excited to see all that he will accomplish at the next level!
Congratulations, Connor! Once a Dragon, always a Dragon!
De Soto Archery Camp – Grades 4 & 5!
Calling all future archers! Join us for the De Soto Archery Elementary Camp and build your skills, confidence, and aim in a fun and supportive environment.
Dates: April 21–23
Location: High School East Gym
Times:
• 4th Grade: 6:00–7:00 PM
• 5th Grade: 7:00–8:00 PM
Equipment will be provided — just come dressed in PE clothes and ready to learn!
Sign up today on the district website under Athletics & Camps.
Questions? Contact Danielle Solomon at Solomon.danielle@desoto.k12.mo.us
Don’t miss this great opportunity to try something new and sharpen your skills!
Calling all future archers! Join us for the De Soto Archery Elementary Camp and build your skills, confidence, and aim in a fun and supportive environment.
Dates: April 21–23
Location: High School East Gym
Times:
• 4th Grade: 6:00–7:00 PM
• 5th Grade: 7:00–8:00 PM
Equipment will be provided — just come dressed in PE clothes and ready to learn!
Sign up today on the district website under Athletics & Camps.
Questions? Contact Danielle Solomon at Solomon.danielle@desoto.k12.mo.us
Don’t miss this great opportunity to try something new and sharpen your skills!
Congratulations to Cole B., a senior from De Soto High School and second year ATS HVAC student for earning FIRST PLACE in the SkillsUSA Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration competition. Cole finished 1st out of 21 competitors from across the state. As the State Champion, Cole qualified to represent Missouri at the SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills conference/competition in Atlanta, GA June 1-5. The state competition that Cole won includes a series of testing stations designed to assess skills identified by industry HVACR standards. Industry equipment used during the workstations portion of the competition may include, but is not limited to, ice machines, refrigerated display cases, small package HVAC units, furnaces and split-system air conditioning and/or heat pump systems, mini-split and/or ductless systems, and geothermal units. Big Congrats to Cole for earning a state championship and for qualifying for the National competition.
Welcome to De Soto #73!
Please join us in welcoming Mrs. Jeannie Brooks to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year!
Position/Title:
Mathematics Teacher
Building or Department:
De Soto Middle School
Previous Experience:
Mrs. Brooks has spent the past 10 years teaching mathematics to students in grades 6–8, including the last 5 years with the Windsor C-1 School District, where she focused on delivering lessons centered on real-world applications. She has also contributed to curriculum development and created scope and sequence maps for grades 4–8. Mrs. Brooks is excited about the opportunity to work in her hometown and is eager to build strong relationships with both students and their families.
Fun Fact / What She’s Excited About:
Mrs. Brooks enjoys spending time with her family, singing, reading, golfing, and serving the community through charitable work. She is grateful to collaborate with the incredible staff at De Soto Middle School and is excited to be part of the Dragon community.
We’re excited to have Mrs. Brooks 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. Jeannie Brooks to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year!
Position/Title:
Mathematics Teacher
Building or Department:
De Soto Middle School
Previous Experience:
Mrs. Brooks has spent the past 10 years teaching mathematics to students in grades 6–8, including the last 5 years with the Windsor C-1 School District, where she focused on delivering lessons centered on real-world applications. She has also contributed to curriculum development and created scope and sequence maps for grades 4–8. Mrs. Brooks is excited about the opportunity to work in her hometown and is eager to build strong relationships with both students and their families.
Fun Fact / What She’s Excited About:
Mrs. Brooks enjoys spending time with her family, singing, reading, golfing, and serving the community through charitable work. She is grateful to collaborate with the incredible staff at De Soto Middle School and is excited to be part of the Dragon community.
We’re excited to have Mrs. Brooks 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!
Congratulations to Brayden M. on earning a medal at the Mid-East Hillsboro Golf Tournament earlier this week!
We are proud of your hard work, dedication, and representing De Soto with excellence. Keep it going, Brayden!
We are proud of your hard work, dedication, and representing De Soto with excellence. Keep it going, Brayden!
Congratulations to our 2025–2026 De Soto #73 School District Teacher and Support Staff of the Year!
We are proud to recognize Seth Harris as our Teacher of the Year and Samantha Harris as our Support Staff Member of the Year!
Thank you both for your dedication, passion, and the positive impact you make on our students, staff, and community each and every day. Your commitment truly makes a difference!
Now Hiring in Our Transportation Department!
The De Soto #73 School District is currently looking to grow our transportation team. If you are looking for a rewarding opportunity to support students and our community, we would love to hear from you!
We are currently hiring:
Bus Drivers
Bus Mechanic
Substitute Bus Drivers
Our transportation team plays a vital role in making sure students arrive to and from school safely each day. Join a team that truly makes a difference for our students and families.
Apply today:
Apply in person at our Central Office at 610 Vineland School Rd. De Soto, MO
Or apply online at Moreap.net
Questions?
Contact Transportation Director Eric Young
Young.Eric@desoto.k12.mo.us
636-586-1078
Come be part of the team that keeps our students moving safely every day!
The De Soto #73 School District is currently looking to grow our transportation team. If you are looking for a rewarding opportunity to support students and our community, we would love to hear from you!
We are currently hiring:
Bus Drivers
Bus Mechanic
Substitute Bus Drivers
Our transportation team plays a vital role in making sure students arrive to and from school safely each day. Join a team that truly makes a difference for our students and families.
Apply today:
Apply in person at our Central Office at 610 Vineland School Rd. De Soto, MO
Or apply online at Moreap.net
Questions?
Contact Transportation Director Eric Young
Young.Eric@desoto.k12.mo.us
636-586-1078
Come be part of the team that keeps our students moving safely every day!
Welcome to De Soto #73!
Please join us in welcoming Ms. Katherine (Kate) Fagin to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year!
Position/Title:
School Counselor (Freshmen, half of Sophomore class, and 504 Coordinator)
Building or Department:
De Soto High School – Counseling Department
Previous Experience:
Hazelwood School District; prior experience in the mental health field
Fun Fact / What She’s Excited About:
Ms. Fagin has a senior dog named Dexter (half corgi, half chihuahua) and loves taking him on as many adventures as possible! She is very excited to join the De Soto School District for the 2026–2027 school year.
We’re excited to have Ms. Fagin join the team and can’t wait for the positive impact she’ll make with our students and families. Help us give her a warm Dragon welcome!
Please join us in welcoming Ms. Katherine (Kate) Fagin to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year!
Position/Title:
School Counselor (Freshmen, half of Sophomore class, and 504 Coordinator)
Building or Department:
De Soto High School – Counseling Department
Previous Experience:
Hazelwood School District; prior experience in the mental health field
Fun Fact / What She’s Excited About:
Ms. Fagin has a senior dog named Dexter (half corgi, half chihuahua) and loves taking him on as many adventures as possible! She is very excited to join the De Soto School District for the 2026–2027 school year.
We’re excited to have Ms. Fagin join the team and can’t wait for the positive impact she’ll make with our students and families. Help us give her a warm Dragon welcome!
