De Soto #73 School District
610 Vineland School Road De Soto, MO 63020 Phone 636-586-1000 Fax 636-586-1009
De Soto Middle School is hosting a Map Kick-Off Movie Night on the Football Field, and you won’t want to miss it!
April 23
6:00 PM
J.C. Culwell Stadium
Enjoy a night of:
Hot dogs, popcorn, and snacks (available for purchase)
Games and activities for all ages
A showing of The Sandlot
$5 per person
All proceeds support the DMS Renaissance Program
Bring your blankets and your friends—we can’t wait to see you there!
April 23
6:00 PM
J.C. Culwell Stadium
Enjoy a night of:
Hot dogs, popcorn, and snacks (available for purchase)
Games and activities for all ages
A showing of The Sandlot
$5 per person
All proceeds support the DMS Renaissance Program
Bring your blankets and your friends—we can’t wait to see you there!
Happy Assistant Principals Week!
We are incredibly fortunate to have some of the very best serving our schools each day. Their leadership, dedication, and commitment to our students, staff, and families make a lasting impact across our district.
Thank you for everything you do to support, lead, and inspire—today and every day. We appreciate you!
We are incredibly fortunate to have some of the very best serving our schools each day. Their leadership, dedication, and commitment to our students, staff, and families make a lasting impact across our district.
Thank you for everything you do to support, lead, and inspire—today and every day. We appreciate you!
Congratulations to Freshman Landon D.!
Landon earned a 5th place medal at the 1st Annual Ste. Genevieve JV Golf Tournament on Wednesday—an impressive accomplishment and a great showing of hard work and determination.
We’re proud of you, Landon! Keep up the great work!
Landon earned a 5th place medal at the 1st Annual Ste. Genevieve JV Golf Tournament on Wednesday—an impressive accomplishment and a great showing of hard work and determination.
We’re proud of you, Landon! Keep up the great work!
Please join us in welcoming Ms. Kayla Vernoy to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year!
Position/Title:
School Counselor
Building:
De Soto Primary (Athena)
Previous Experience:
Ms. Vernoy previously served as a paraprofessional for four years at Fox C-6 School District, where she supported students academically, socially, and behaviorally across a variety of classroom settings. She collaborated closely with teachers and staff to implement instructional plans and provide individualized support. She also holds a master’s degree in school counseling from Missouri Baptist University.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby:
Outside of school, Ms. Vernoy enjoys reading and spending quality time with her two children. A fun fact is that she has traveled to 26 different states and loves exploring new places whenever she can!
What She’s Excited About:
Ms. Vernoy is excited to join the De Soto #73 School District as a school counselor and looks forward to supporting students, families, and staff. She is passionate about helping students grow both academically and emotionally and is eager to be part of a positive and supportive school community.
We’re excited to have Ms. Vernoy 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!
Position/Title:
School Counselor
Building:
De Soto Primary (Athena)
Previous Experience:
Ms. Vernoy previously served as a paraprofessional for four years at Fox C-6 School District, where she supported students academically, socially, and behaviorally across a variety of classroom settings. She collaborated closely with teachers and staff to implement instructional plans and provide individualized support. She also holds a master’s degree in school counseling from Missouri Baptist University.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby:
Outside of school, Ms. Vernoy enjoys reading and spending quality time with her two children. A fun fact is that she has traveled to 26 different states and loves exploring new places whenever she can!
What She’s Excited About:
Ms. Vernoy is excited to join the De Soto #73 School District as a school counselor and looks forward to supporting students, families, and staff. She is passionate about helping students grow both academically and emotionally and is eager to be part of a positive and supportive school community.
We’re excited to have Ms. Vernoy 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 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
Get ready to shine, Dragons!
Dragonline Dance Tryouts for the 2026–2027 season are just around the corner! If you’re passionate about dance, teamwork, and school spirit, this is your chance to be part of something amazing.
Open to students entering 9th–12th grade for the 2026–2027 school year.
De Soto High School Gym
April 11, 2026
8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Tryout packets were due March 27. If you missed that deadline, please reach out to Mrs. Burke. All participants must have a completed packet turned in prior to tryouts.
Questions? burke.angela@desoto.k12.mo.us
We can’t wait to see our future Dragonline members take the floor!
Dragonline Dance Tryouts for the 2026–2027 season are just around the corner! If you’re passionate about dance, teamwork, and school spirit, this is your chance to be part of something amazing.
Open to students entering 9th–12th grade for the 2026–2027 school year.
De Soto High School Gym
April 11, 2026
8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Tryout packets were due March 27. If you missed that deadline, please reach out to Mrs. Burke. All participants must have a completed packet turned in prior to tryouts.
Questions? burke.angela@desoto.k12.mo.us
We can’t wait to see our future Dragonline members take the floor!
Reminder: Board of Education Meeting
Our Board of Education will be meeting on Tuesday, April 14, 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.
Big congratulations to our De Soto High School Choir students!
We are proud to share that our talented DHS choir has won a radio contest and will have the incredible opportunity to sing with the band Foreigner this August!
This is an amazing accomplishment and a true reflection of their hard work, dedication, and talent.
A huge THANK YOU to everyone who took the time to vote and support our students—we couldn’t have done it without you!
We are proud to share that our talented DHS choir has won a radio contest and will have the incredible opportunity to sing with the band Foreigner this August!
This is an amazing accomplishment and a true reflection of their hard work, dedication, and talent.
A huge THANK YOU to everyone who took the time to vote and support our students—we couldn’t have done it without you!
Annual Student Information Renewal is Now Open
Each spring, all families are asked to complete the Annual Student Information Renewal (Registration) in Infinite Campus to help us prepare for the 2026–2027 school year. Even though this information is for next school year, it must be completed now so we can accurately plan schedules, transportation, staffing, and student services.
Deadline: May 1
We strongly encourage families to complete this as soon as possible.
Why this matters?
Your timely completion helps the district:
• Build accurate class schedules for 2026–2027
• Create bus routes and transportation plans
• Keep health and emergency information current
• Ensure you continue receiving important school messages
If not completed by May 1, families may experience:
• Delays in receiving student schedules
• Delays or changes in bus assignments
• Temporary loss of access to the Infinite Campus Parent Portal
• Suspension of student Google accounts at the end of the 2025–2026 school year (until completed)
How to complete your renewal:
- Log in to your Infinite Campus Parent Portal
- Select “More” from the menu
- Click “Annual Student Information Renewal”
- Review, update, and submit your student’s information
If you need help logging in or have questions, please contact your student’s building office — they’re happy to help.
Thank you for partnering with us to ensure a smooth and successful start to the 2026–2027 school year for every student!
Each spring, all families are asked to complete the Annual Student Information Renewal (Registration) in Infinite Campus to help us prepare for the 2026–2027 school year. Even though this information is for next school year, it must be completed now so we can accurately plan schedules, transportation, staffing, and student services.
Deadline: May 1
We strongly encourage families to complete this as soon as possible.
Why this matters?
Your timely completion helps the district:
• Build accurate class schedules for 2026–2027
• Create bus routes and transportation plans
• Keep health and emergency information current
• Ensure you continue receiving important school messages
If not completed by May 1, families may experience:
• Delays in receiving student schedules
• Delays or changes in bus assignments
• Temporary loss of access to the Infinite Campus Parent Portal
• Suspension of student Google accounts at the end of the 2025–2026 school year (until completed)
How to complete your renewal:
- Log in to your Infinite Campus Parent Portal
- Select “More” from the menu
- Click “Annual Student Information Renewal”
- Review, update, and submit your student’s information
If you need help logging in or have questions, please contact your student’s building office — they’re happy to help.
Thank you for partnering with us to ensure a smooth and successful start to the 2026–2027 school year for every student!
Please join us in welcoming Miss Riley Stephenson to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year!
Position/Title:
3rd Grade Teacher
Building:
De Soto Intermediate (Vineland)
Previous Experience:
Miss Stephenson completed her student teaching and worked as a substitute teacher in the Warrensburg School District. She also gained valuable experience working at a daycare while in college.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby:
She danced in college on a nationally ranked dance team! In her free time, she enjoys painting, cross-stitching, reading, and spending time with her family.
What She’s Excited About:
Miss Stephenson is beyond excited to begin her teaching journey and is looking forward to building relationships with her students while supporting their learning and growth.
We’re excited to have Miss Stephenson 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!
Position/Title:
3rd Grade Teacher
Building:
De Soto Intermediate (Vineland)
Previous Experience:
Miss Stephenson completed her student teaching and worked as a substitute teacher in the Warrensburg School District. She also gained valuable experience working at a daycare while in college.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby:
She danced in college on a nationally ranked dance team! In her free time, she enjoys painting, cross-stitching, reading, and spending time with her family.
What She’s Excited About:
Miss Stephenson is beyond excited to begin her teaching journey and is looking forward to building relationships with her students while supporting their learning and growth.
We’re excited to have Miss Stephenson 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 hope everyone had a relaxing and enjoyable Spring Break!
This is a friendly reminder that school resumes tomorrow—we are excited to welcome our students back and finish the school year strong!
Also, the Annual Student Information Renewal (Registration) in Infinite Campus will open tomorrow, Tuesday, April 7. Completing this process helps ensure we have the most up-to-date information for your student as we prepare for the upcoming school year.
We look forward to seeing everyone back tomorrow!
This is a friendly reminder that school resumes tomorrow—we are excited to welcome our students back and finish the school year strong!
Also, the Annual Student Information Renewal (Registration) in Infinite Campus will open tomorrow, Tuesday, April 7. Completing this process helps ensure we have the most up-to-date information for your student as we prepare for the upcoming school year.
We look forward to seeing everyone back tomorrow!
At the March Board of Education meeting, we proudly recognized several of our Board of Education members for earning advanced certifications through the Missouri School Boards’ Association (MSBA)
These achievements reflect a strong commitment to professional growth, effective governance, and continued dedication to serving the students, staff, and community of the De Soto School District.
Board Member Recognitions
• Trish Coleman — Master Board Member Certification (not pictured)
• Beverly Wilson — Distinguished Board Member Certification
• Mark Ferrell — Master Board Member Certification
• Kari Brooks — Advanced Board Member Certification
• Jonathan Cook — Advanced Board Member Certification (not pictured)
• Michael Golightly — Master Board Member Certification
These certifications require significant time, training, and ongoing professional learning focused on strengthening leadership, policy understanding, and governance in public education.
We are grateful for the dedication these individuals have shown in continuously growing to better serve our district and community.
These achievements reflect a strong commitment to professional growth, effective governance, and continued dedication to serving the students, staff, and community of the De Soto School District.
Board Member Recognitions
• Trish Coleman — Master Board Member Certification (not pictured)
• Beverly Wilson — Distinguished Board Member Certification
• Mark Ferrell — Master Board Member Certification
• Kari Brooks — Advanced Board Member Certification
• Jonathan Cook — Advanced Board Member Certification (not pictured)
• Michael Golightly — Master Board Member Certification
These certifications require significant time, training, and ongoing professional learning focused on strengthening leadership, policy understanding, and governance in public education.
We are grateful for the dedication these individuals have shown in continuously growing to better serve our district and community.
At the March Board of Education meeting, De Soto Middle School proudly recognized an outstanding staff member and two exceptional students
Staff Recognition
De Soto Middle School would like to recognize Kerri Lawson for the incredible work she does for both students and staff. As the leader of our Character Council Program, Kerri creates meaningful opportunities throughout the year—from monthly luncheons and Career Day to assemblies and student socials.
Beyond that, she plays a vital role in supporting staff and building a positive culture throughout the school. Her willingness to step in, help others, and lead with heart truly defines what it means to be a team player. We are incredibly fortunate to have her at DMS!
Student Recognition
We would also like to recognize Chris C. and Aleah J. for their outstanding achievements. Selected by Choir Director Mr. Harris, they auditioned for the De Soto High School production of High School Musical—going through the same process and expectations as high school students.
Their dedication, professionalism, and talent set them apart. By fully committing to rehearsals and performances, they represented De Soto Middle School with pride and showed just how capable our students are.
Congratulations, Chris and Aleah—you made DMS proud!
Staff Recognition
De Soto Middle School would like to recognize Kerri Lawson for the incredible work she does for both students and staff. As the leader of our Character Council Program, Kerri creates meaningful opportunities throughout the year—from monthly luncheons and Career Day to assemblies and student socials.
Beyond that, she plays a vital role in supporting staff and building a positive culture throughout the school. Her willingness to step in, help others, and lead with heart truly defines what it means to be a team player. We are incredibly fortunate to have her at DMS!
Student Recognition
We would also like to recognize Chris C. and Aleah J. for their outstanding achievements. Selected by Choir Director Mr. Harris, they auditioned for the De Soto High School production of High School Musical—going through the same process and expectations as high school students.
Their dedication, professionalism, and talent set them apart. By fully committing to rehearsals and performances, they represented De Soto Middle School with pride and showed just how capable our students are.
Congratulations, Chris and Aleah—you made DMS proud!
Please join us in welcoming Miss DiMercurio to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year!
Position/Title:
Kindergarten Teacher
Building:
De Soto Primary (Athena)
Previous Experience:
Miss DiMercurio served as a paraprofessional at Ste. Genevieve Elementary for the past two years, where she gained valuable experience supporting students and staff.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby:
She enjoys working out, being outdoors, and spending time with her family and friends.
Miss DiMercurio is excited to be part of the Dragon family and is looking forward to meeting her future kindergarten students, as well as the faculty and staff.
We’re excited to have Miss DiMercurio 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!
Position/Title:
Kindergarten Teacher
Building:
De Soto Primary (Athena)
Previous Experience:
Miss DiMercurio served as a paraprofessional at Ste. Genevieve Elementary for the past two years, where she gained valuable experience supporting students and staff.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby:
She enjoys working out, being outdoors, and spending time with her family and friends.
Miss DiMercurio is excited to be part of the Dragon family and is looking forward to meeting her future kindergarten students, as well as the faculty and staff.
We’re excited to have Miss DiMercurio 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 the incredible paraprofessionals who make a difference in our schools each and every day!
Your dedication, patience, and compassion help support our students in ways that truly matter. Whether you’re providing one-on-one support, assisting in the classroom, or building meaningful connections, your impact does not go unnoticed.
Thank you for the care, commitment, and positivity you bring to our district. We are so grateful for all that you do for our students, staff, and school community.
Happy Paraprofessional Day!
Your dedication, patience, and compassion help support our students in ways that truly matter. Whether you’re providing one-on-one support, assisting in the classroom, or building meaningful connections, your impact does not go unnoticed.
Thank you for the care, commitment, and positivity you bring to our district. We are so grateful for all that you do for our students, staff, and school community.
Happy Paraprofessional Day!
At the March Board of Education meeting, Vineland Elementary proudly recognized students and staff for their outstanding efforts in the Kids Heart Challenge
Top Fundraisers
• Lillie H. – $1,027.61 raised
• Deckland B. – $633.23 raised
• Kahlan R. – $464.39 raised
Thank you for your hard work, dedication, and commitment to supporting heart health. Your efforts are making a difference!
Staff Recognition
Vineland would also like to recognize Amanda Pruitt for her incredible dedication to the Kids Heart Challenge/Jump Rope for Heart program. For 20 years, she has led this fundraiser with passion and care—making a lasting impact on our students and community.
We are proud of our Dragons for leading with heart!
Top Fundraisers
• Lillie H. – $1,027.61 raised
• Deckland B. – $633.23 raised
• Kahlan R. – $464.39 raised
Thank you for your hard work, dedication, and commitment to supporting heart health. Your efforts are making a difference!
Staff Recognition
Vineland would also like to recognize Amanda Pruitt for her incredible dedication to the Kids Heart Challenge/Jump Rope for Heart program. For 20 years, she has led this fundraiser with passion and care—making a lasting impact on our students and community.
We are proud of our Dragons for leading with heart!
Please join us in welcoming Ms. Mattelyn Edwards to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year! 🐉
Position/Title:
Kindergarten Teacher
Building:
De Soto Primary (Athena)
Previous Experience:
Ms. Edwards recently completed her student teaching in second grade at Festus Elementary School. She also brings experience tutoring a first grade student during her time at Lindenwood University and has served as a substitute teacher for the past year and a half, primarily working with students in grades K–3.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby:
Outside of the classroom, Ms. Edwards enjoys spending time with family and friends, as well as her two dogs, Maggie and Allie. She loves reading, traveling, and being outdoors—whether that’s playing pickleball, hiking, or going for walks. She’s also a big movie fan and has watched all of the Disney Pixar films!
Ms. Edwards is excited to begin her teaching career in kindergarten and is passionate about helping students discover a love for learning. She’s looking forward to growing alongside both students and staff in the De Soto community.
We’re excited to have Ms. Edwards 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!
Position/Title:
Kindergarten Teacher
Building:
De Soto Primary (Athena)
Previous Experience:
Ms. Edwards recently completed her student teaching in second grade at Festus Elementary School. She also brings experience tutoring a first grade student during her time at Lindenwood University and has served as a substitute teacher for the past year and a half, primarily working with students in grades K–3.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby:
Outside of the classroom, Ms. Edwards enjoys spending time with family and friends, as well as her two dogs, Maggie and Allie. She loves reading, traveling, and being outdoors—whether that’s playing pickleball, hiking, or going for walks. She’s also a big movie fan and has watched all of the Disney Pixar films!
Ms. Edwards is excited to begin her teaching career in kindergarten and is passionate about helping students discover a love for learning. She’s looking forward to growing alongside both students and staff in the De Soto community.
We’re excited to have Ms. Edwards 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!
Students in Mrs. Burke’s Advanced English 9 class recently brought history to life in a powerful and meaningful way.
As part of their learning, students researched a Righteous Gentile—a non-Jewish individual who risked their life to save Jews during World War II. Through their work, students discovered that these heroes shared remarkable qualities like bravery, compassion, creativity, and selflessness.
Using recyclable materials, each student designed and built a monument to honor their chosen individual. They then combined their research and creativity into a written piece that paid tribute to their World War II hero.
To wrap up the project, students had the opportunity to present their work to members of the Board of Education and district leadership. They truly enjoyed sharing their learning with an authentic audience—and it showed!
We are incredibly proud of these students for their thoughtful work, creativity, and dedication to honoring history in such a meaningful way.
As part of their learning, students researched a Righteous Gentile—a non-Jewish individual who risked their life to save Jews during World War II. Through their work, students discovered that these heroes shared remarkable qualities like bravery, compassion, creativity, and selflessness.
Using recyclable materials, each student designed and built a monument to honor their chosen individual. They then combined their research and creativity into a written piece that paid tribute to their World War II hero.
To wrap up the project, students had the opportunity to present their work to members of the Board of Education and district leadership. They truly enjoyed sharing their learning with an authentic audience—and it showed!
We are incredibly proud of these students for their thoughtful work, creativity, and dedication to honoring history in such a meaningful way.
At the March Board of Education meeting, De Soto High School proudly recognized our state wrestlers for their outstanding accomplishments this season.
Congratulations to:
Brenton D. – 3rd place, 126-pound weight class
Levi H. – 3rd place, 175-pound weight class
Milayna D. – 4th place, 100-pound weight class
Cheyenne K. – 4th place, 110-pound weight class
We also want to recognize Coach John Brown for his leadership and dedication to our wrestling program.
We are proud of these student-athletes for their hard work, determination, and the way they represented De Soto High School on the state stage.
Congratulations to:
Brenton D. – 3rd place, 126-pound weight class
Levi H. – 3rd place, 175-pound weight class
Milayna D. – 4th place, 100-pound weight class
Cheyenne K. – 4th place, 110-pound weight class
We also want to recognize Coach John Brown for his leadership and dedication to our wrestling program.
We are proud of these student-athletes for their hard work, determination, and the way they represented De Soto High School on the state stage.
At the March Board of Education meeting, De Soto High School proudly recognized our Dance Team for an incredible season filled with achievement both on and off the floor.
Congratulations to our team for:
2nd Place in Mix Division
(Lyla B., Shelby B., Amelia D., Kaitlyn H., Goldie K., Taylor R., Raegan S., Shelby S., Mya W.)
Community Service Award – Division 3
Academic All-State Honors:
4.0 GPA – Raegan S. and Shelby S.
3.6–3.9 GPA – Lyla B., Mya W., and Taylor R.
A special thank you to Coaches Allison Williamson and Angie Burke for their leadership and dedication.
We are proud of these student-athletes for their talent, commitment, and the way they represent De Soto High School in competition, in the classroom, and in the community.
Congratulations to our team for:
2nd Place in Mix Division
(Lyla B., Shelby B., Amelia D., Kaitlyn H., Goldie K., Taylor R., Raegan S., Shelby S., Mya W.)
Community Service Award – Division 3
Academic All-State Honors:
4.0 GPA – Raegan S. and Shelby S.
3.6–3.9 GPA – Lyla B., Mya W., and Taylor R.
A special thank you to Coaches Allison Williamson and Angie Burke for their leadership and dedication.
We are proud of these student-athletes for their talent, commitment, and the way they represent De Soto High School in competition, in the classroom, and in the community.
