De Soto #73 School District
610 Vineland School Road De Soto, MO 63020 Phone 636-586-1000 Fax 636-586-1009
DHS Varsity Cheer Tryouts Are Coming!
Do you have school spirit, energy, and a love for cheering on the Dragons? Now’s your chance to join DHS Varsity Cheer!
Tryouts: Saturday, March 21
Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Open to high school students interested in being part of the DHS Varsity Cheer team.
Informational Meeting:
Thursday, February 26
7:20 AM
Coach Roop’s Room #131
Attend the informational meeting to learn about expectations, requirements, and the tryout process.
Let’s go, Dragons!
Do you have school spirit, energy, and a love for cheering on the Dragons? Now’s your chance to join DHS Varsity Cheer!
Tryouts: Saturday, March 21
Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Open to high school students interested in being part of the DHS Varsity Cheer team.
Informational Meeting:
Thursday, February 26
7:20 AM
Coach Roop’s Room #131
Attend the informational meeting to learn about expectations, requirements, and the tryout process.
Let’s go, Dragons!
Read Across America Week Fun!
Our students weren’t the only ones celebrating Read Across America Week—our staff joined in the fun too!
This is Shi Haws, the driver of Bus #87, who dressed up for Book Character Day last week. We love seeing the enthusiasm she brings each day and the way she connects with the students on her route.
Thank you, Shi, for helping make the week even more special and for the care and positivity you show our students every day!
Our students weren’t the only ones celebrating Read Across America Week—our staff joined in the fun too!
This is Shi Haws, the driver of Bus #87, who dressed up for Book Character Day last week. We love seeing the enthusiasm she brings each day and the way she connects with the students on her route.
Thank you, Shi, for helping make the week even more special and for the care and positivity you show our students every day!
Future Dragons – This One’s for You!
Incoming freshmen and families are invited to De Soto High School’s Freshman Preview Night! This is a great opportunity to learn about high school life, meet staff, and explore everything DHS has to offer.
Thursday, March 12
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
De Soto High School Cafeteria
815 Amvets Dr., De Soto, MO
During the evening you will have the chance to:
Take building tours
Learn about athletics and activities
Meet club sponsors and staff
Hear from senior students during a Q&A
Get tips from our High School Survival Guide
6:30–7:40 PM: Stations & building tours
7:40 PM: Incoming freshman parent meeting in the theater (following the senior meeting)
We are excited to welcome the Class of 2030 and help you get ready for your high school journey!
Incoming freshmen and families are invited to De Soto High School’s Freshman Preview Night! This is a great opportunity to learn about high school life, meet staff, and explore everything DHS has to offer.
Thursday, March 12
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
De Soto High School Cafeteria
815 Amvets Dr., De Soto, MO
During the evening you will have the chance to:
Take building tours
Learn about athletics and activities
Meet club sponsors and staff
Hear from senior students during a Q&A
Get tips from our High School Survival Guide
6:30–7:40 PM: Stations & building tours
7:40 PM: Incoming freshman parent meeting in the theater (following the senior meeting)
We are excited to welcome the Class of 2030 and help you get ready for your high school journey!
Maintenance Appreciation Day
Today we recognize and celebrate the incredible members of our maintenance team who work behind the scenes every day to keep our schools running smoothly.
From repairing equipment and maintaining our facilities to ensuring our buildings are safe, comfortable, and ready for learning, their work often happens quietly—but it makes a huge difference for our students, staff, and community.
We are grateful for the dedication, hard work, and pride our maintenance team brings to our district each day. Thank you for everything you do to keep our schools in great shape and support the success of our students and staff.
Please join us in showing appreciation to our outstanding maintenance team today!
Today we recognize and celebrate the incredible members of our maintenance team who work behind the scenes every day to keep our schools running smoothly.
From repairing equipment and maintaining our facilities to ensuring our buildings are safe, comfortable, and ready for learning, their work often happens quietly—but it makes a huge difference for our students, staff, and community.
We are grateful for the dedication, hard work, and pride our maintenance team brings to our district each day. Thank you for everything you do to keep our schools in great shape and support the success of our students and staff.
Please join us in showing appreciation to our outstanding maintenance team today!
Reminder: Daylight Saving Time Begins This Weekend!
Don’t forget to set your clocks forward one hour before you go to bed on Saturday night. Daylight Saving Time begins on Sunday morning, which means we “spring forward” and gain more daylight in the evenings.
While losing an hour of sleep can be tough, the extra daylight is a great reminder that spring is just around the corner!
Take a moment this weekend to adjust your clocks and enjoy the longer days ahead.
Don’t forget to set your clocks forward one hour before you go to bed on Saturday night. Daylight Saving Time begins on Sunday morning, which means we “spring forward” and gain more daylight in the evenings.
While losing an hour of sleep can be tough, the extra daylight is a great reminder that spring is just around the corner!
Take a moment this weekend to adjust your clocks and enjoy the longer days ahead.
Welcome to De Soto #73!
Please join us in welcoming Mrs. Stacia Placke to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year! (Mrs. Placke to students)
Position/Title:
Early Childhood Educator
Building or Department:
Early Childhood Center
Previous Experience:
Mrs. Placke has three years of experience in education, serving as a paraprofessional for two years at Festus High School and one year at the Festus Early Childhood Center. During this time, she developed a strong foundation in supporting student learning and growth.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby / What You’re Excited About:
Mrs. Placke is a creative and passionate educator who is excited to bring learning to life through engaging, imaginative, and developmentally appropriate classroom experiences. She is dedicated to creating a warm, nurturing environment where every child feels supported, valued, and inspired to learn.
We’re excited to have Mrs. Placke 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. Stacia Placke to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year! (Mrs. Placke to students)
Position/Title:
Early Childhood Educator
Building or Department:
Early Childhood Center
Previous Experience:
Mrs. Placke has three years of experience in education, serving as a paraprofessional for two years at Festus High School and one year at the Festus Early Childhood Center. During this time, she developed a strong foundation in supporting student learning and growth.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby / What You’re Excited About:
Mrs. Placke is a creative and passionate educator who is excited to bring learning to life through engaging, imaginative, and developmentally appropriate classroom experiences. She is dedicated to creating a warm, nurturing environment where every child feels supported, valued, and inspired to learn.
We’re excited to have Mrs. Placke 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 had the pleasure of welcoming our Vineland 5th graders to De Soto Middle School!
Students had the opportunity to tour the building, meet staff, ask questions, and get a glimpse of what next year will look like. From exploring classrooms to learning about activities and expectations, it was an exciting step toward their middle school journey.
We are so proud of these future Dragons and can’t wait to see them walking the halls of DMS next year!
Students had the opportunity to tour the building, meet staff, ask questions, and get a glimpse of what next year will look like. From exploring classrooms to learning about activities and expectations, it was an exciting step toward their middle school journey.
We are so proud of these future Dragons and can’t wait to see them walking the halls of DMS next year!
Join the De Soto Bands Color Guard Mini Camp!
Students from Athena and Vineland (Kindergarten–5th Grade) are invited to an exciting day of learning, movement, and fun with our Color Guard team!
Date: Saturday, March 21
Location: Vineland Gym
Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Lunch provided
Participants will learn:
Color Guard performance routines
Solo features
The school fight song
Special Performance Showcase:
March 21 at 4:00 PM — Vineland Gym
Questions? Contact Samantha Boyer, HS Color Guard Coach
boyer.samantha@desoto.k12.mo.us
Come spin, dance, and perform with De Soto Bands — we can’t wait to see you there!
Welcome to De Soto #73!
Please join us in welcoming Ms. Melissa Gazaway to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year!
Position/Title:
Third Grade Teacher
Building or Department:
Vineland Elementary
Previous Experience:
18 years of teaching experience, including 14 years in First Grade, 3 years teaching 5th Grade Math and Science, and experience teaching 2nd Grade.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby / What You’re Excited About:
Ms. Gazaway loves being outdoors and enjoying nature. She spends much of her time in the gym each evening and enjoys running, playing tennis, squash, and pickleball year-round.
We’re excited to have Ms. Gazaway 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 had the pleasure of welcoming our Athena 5th graders to De Soto Middle School!
Students had the opportunity to tour the building, meet staff, ask questions, and get a glimpse of what next year will look like. From exploring classrooms to learning about activities and expectations, it was an exciting step toward their middle school journey.
We are so proud of these future Dragons and can’t wait to see them walking the halls of DMS next year!
Students had the opportunity to tour the building, meet staff, ask questions, and get a glimpse of what next year will look like. From exploring classrooms to learning about activities and expectations, it was an exciting step toward their middle school journey.
We are so proud of these future Dragons and can’t wait to see them walking the halls of DMS next year!
This week, we proudly recognize School Social Work Week and celebrate the incredible impact our school social workers make every day.
School social workers play a vital role in supporting students’ academic success, mental health, and overall well-being. Through their dedication, compassion, and commitment, they help remove barriers to learning, strengthen connections between school and home, and ensure every student has the support they need to succeed.
Thank you to our school social workers for the care, guidance, and positive difference you make in the lives of our students, families, and staff each day. We appreciate you!
School social workers play a vital role in supporting students’ academic success, mental health, and overall well-being. Through their dedication, compassion, and commitment, they help remove barriers to learning, strengthen connections between school and home, and ensure every student has the support they need to succeed.
Thank you to our school social workers for the care, guidance, and positive difference you make in the lives of our students, families, and staff each day. We appreciate you!
**We’re Hiring for the 2026–2027 School Year!**
Join the De Soto #73 School District and help make a difference in the lives of our students and families. We are currently hiring for the following positions:
**Teaching & Certified Positions**
• Behavior Resource Teacher – Intermediate (Grades 3–5)
• Behavior Resource Teacher – Primary (Grades K–2)
• Intermediate Teacher (Grades 3–5)
• Kindergarten Teacher – Primary
• Math Teacher – Middle School
• Parents as Teachers (PAT) Teacher
• Self-Contained Special Education Teacher – Middle School
• Special Education Teacher – High School
**Student Support Services**
• Counselor – High School
• Counselor – Primary (Grades K–2)
• Occupational Therapist
• Physical Therapist
• Speech Language Pathologist
**Support Staff**
• Bus Drivers
If you’re passionate about supporting student learning, growth, and success, we encourage you to apply today!
Learn more and apply: https://www.moreap.net/jobsrchDistrict.php?district=500140000
Come be part of the Dragon family!
Join the De Soto #73 School District and help make a difference in the lives of our students and families. We are currently hiring for the following positions:
**Teaching & Certified Positions**
• Behavior Resource Teacher – Intermediate (Grades 3–5)
• Behavior Resource Teacher – Primary (Grades K–2)
• Intermediate Teacher (Grades 3–5)
• Kindergarten Teacher – Primary
• Math Teacher – Middle School
• Parents as Teachers (PAT) Teacher
• Self-Contained Special Education Teacher – Middle School
• Special Education Teacher – High School
**Student Support Services**
• Counselor – High School
• Counselor – Primary (Grades K–2)
• Occupational Therapist
• Physical Therapist
• Speech Language Pathologist
**Support Staff**
• Bus Drivers
If you’re passionate about supporting student learning, growth, and success, we encourage you to apply today!
Learn more and apply: https://www.moreap.net/jobsrchDistrict.php?district=500140000
Come be part of the Dragon family!
Board of Education Recognition — Student & Staff Leadership in Action
At last month’s Board of Education meeting, De Soto High School proudly recognized Mrs. Reese and Mrs. Milfeld, along with students Maximus S., Charlie R., Lindsey S., Peyton F., Liam O., Trenton H., Lucas B., Austin B., and Riley C., for their outstanding efforts in renovating the teachers’ lounge.
Under the guidance of Mrs. Reese and Mrs. Milfeld, this group repainted, reorganized, and decluttered the space, giving the teachers’ lounge a much-needed transformation.
Thank you all for your hard work, dedication, and the pride you show in our school and community!
We appreciate your commitment to making a positive impact.
College Signing Celebration — Congratulations, Dragons!
We are proud to recognize two outstanding De Soto High School student-athletes who will be continuing their academic and athletic careers at Mineral Area College to play softball. Their dedication, hard work, and commitment have made a lasting impact on our school community.
Addison G.
College: Mineral Area College
Sport: Softball
Area of Study: Associate of General Studies
Honors & Achievements:
• Honorable Mention
• 1st Team All-District
• 2nd Team All-Conference
• 2nd Team All-Region
• Academic All-State
Other Activities: National Honor Society
Kylee T.
College: Mineral Area College
Sport: Softball
Area of Study: Associate of General Studies
Honors & Achievements:
• 4x Varsity Softball Letter
• 4x Academic All-State
• Sandy Meurer State Farm Female Athlete of the Month
• 2x 1st Team All-Conference
• 2x 1st Team All-District
• 2x 2nd Team All-Conference
• 2x 2nd Team All-District
• 2x 2nd Team All-Region
• 3x Voted MVP
• Golden Bat Award
• Love of the Game Award
Other Activities: Treasurer, National Honor Society
“High school softball brought me many memories and bonds that I will carry with me forever. I will definitely miss getting to represent our school with my teammates and coaches.” — Kylee T.
Your Dragon family is incredibly proud of you both! We can’t wait to see all you accomplish at the next level. Please join us in congratulating Addison and Kylee on this exciting achievement!
We are proud to recognize two outstanding De Soto High School student-athletes who will be continuing their academic and athletic careers at Mineral Area College to play softball. Their dedication, hard work, and commitment have made a lasting impact on our school community.
Addison G.
College: Mineral Area College
Sport: Softball
Area of Study: Associate of General Studies
Honors & Achievements:
• Honorable Mention
• 1st Team All-District
• 2nd Team All-Conference
• 2nd Team All-Region
• Academic All-State
Other Activities: National Honor Society
Kylee T.
College: Mineral Area College
Sport: Softball
Area of Study: Associate of General Studies
Honors & Achievements:
• 4x Varsity Softball Letter
• 4x Academic All-State
• Sandy Meurer State Farm Female Athlete of the Month
• 2x 1st Team All-Conference
• 2x 1st Team All-District
• 2x 2nd Team All-Conference
• 2x 2nd Team All-District
• 2x 2nd Team All-Region
• 3x Voted MVP
• Golden Bat Award
• Love of the Game Award
Other Activities: Treasurer, National Honor Society
“High school softball brought me many memories and bonds that I will carry with me forever. I will definitely miss getting to represent our school with my teammates and coaches.” — Kylee T.
Your Dragon family is incredibly proud of you both! We can’t wait to see all you accomplish at the next level. Please join us in congratulating Addison and Kylee on this exciting achievement!
Today we proudly hosted a State Sendoff for our DHS Dance Team!
Students, staff, family, and friends lined the halls to cheer them on as they head to state competition. The energy, excitement, and school spirit on display were incredible — and so well deserved!
We are so proud of the hard work, dedication, and countless hours this team has poured into their season. Your Dragon family is behind you every step of the way.
Good luck at State — go show them what De Soto is made of!
Students, staff, family, and friends lined the halls to cheer them on as they head to state competition. The energy, excitement, and school spirit on display were incredible — and so well deserved!
We are so proud of the hard work, dedication, and countless hours this team has poured into their season. Your Dragon family is behind you every step of the way.
Good luck at State — go show them what De Soto is made of!
We’re Hiring!
The De Soto #73 School District is looking for a bus technician/mechanic to join our transportation team!
If you're interested, you can apply:
Online: via MOREAP
In Person: Visit our Transportation Office at 3781 Athena School Rd. De Soto, MO 63020.
Have questions?
Contact Mr. Eric Young at 636-586-1078 or young.eric@desoto.k12.mo.us.
Help us keep our students safe and moving—join the Dragon team
The De Soto #73 School District is looking for a bus technician/mechanic to join our transportation team!
If you're interested, you can apply:
Online: via MOREAP
In Person: Visit our Transportation Office at 3781 Athena School Rd. De Soto, MO 63020.
Have questions?
Contact Mr. Eric Young at 636-586-1078 or young.eric@desoto.k12.mo.us.
Help us keep our students safe and moving—join the Dragon team
Board of Education Recognition — Celebrating Excellence in Music Education
At last week’s Board of Education meeting, De Soto Middle School proudly recognized Seth Harris, Middle School Choir Director, for his dedication and outstanding impact on the choir program.
When Mr. Harris began teaching at the middle school, the program included just 6 students in Men’s Glee and 30 students in Women’s Glee. Through his commitment to building relationships and creating a positive, welcoming environment, the program has grown tremendously — now serving 30 students in Men’s Glee and 67 students in Women’s Glee.
This growth reflects the time, energy, and passion Mr. Harris invests in his students each day. Beyond the classroom, he provides meaningful performance opportunities, including organizing a National Anthem performance at a St. Louis Ambush game and taking students to Kansas City to perform and compete at the Worlds of Fun Festival alongside other middle school choirs.
Thank you, Mr. Harris, for your dedication to our students and for helping our music program thrive!
At last week’s Board of Education meeting, De Soto Middle School proudly recognized Seth Harris, Middle School Choir Director, for his dedication and outstanding impact on the choir program.
When Mr. Harris began teaching at the middle school, the program included just 6 students in Men’s Glee and 30 students in Women’s Glee. Through his commitment to building relationships and creating a positive, welcoming environment, the program has grown tremendously — now serving 30 students in Men’s Glee and 67 students in Women’s Glee.
This growth reflects the time, energy, and passion Mr. Harris invests in his students each day. Beyond the classroom, he provides meaningful performance opportunities, including organizing a National Anthem performance at a St. Louis Ambush game and taking students to Kansas City to perform and compete at the Worlds of Fun Festival alongside other middle school choirs.
Thank you, Mr. Harris, for your dedication to our students and for helping our music program thrive!
History Made!
Congratulations to Kolton C. on becoming the first Tier 1 qualifier in the history of archery at De Soto!
This is an incredible accomplishment and a proud moment for our entire Dragon community. Kolton’s hard work, focus, and dedication to the sport have truly paid off — and he’s officially etched his name into De Soto archery history.
We can’t wait to see what’s next. Way to go, Kolton!
Congratulations to Kolton C. on becoming the first Tier 1 qualifier in the history of archery at De Soto!
This is an incredible accomplishment and a proud moment for our entire Dragon community. Kolton’s hard work, focus, and dedication to the sport have truly paid off — and he’s officially etched his name into De Soto archery history.
We can’t wait to see what’s next. Way to go, Kolton!
Welcome to De Soto #73!
Please join us in welcoming Ms. Kirstin to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year!
Position/Title:
Bus Aide
Building or Department:
Transportation Department
Previous Experience:
Ms. Kirstin previously served as a bus aide in another district and shared that she had such a blast working with the students.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby / What She’s Excited About:
Ms. Kirstin is a bookworm at heart and has already read 11 books this year! She also enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and participating in activities with her daughter’s Girl Scout troop.
We’re excited to have Ms. Kirstin 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. Kirstin to the De Soto #73 School District for the upcoming school year!
Position/Title:
Bus Aide
Building or Department:
Transportation Department
Previous Experience:
Ms. Kirstin previously served as a bus aide in another district and shared that she had such a blast working with the students.
Fun Fact / Favorite Hobby / What She’s Excited About:
Ms. Kirstin is a bookworm at heart and has already read 11 books this year! She also enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and participating in activities with her daughter’s Girl Scout troop.
We’re excited to have Ms. Kirstin 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!
Board of Education Recognition — Thank You, Milfeld Foundation!
At last week’s Board of Education meeting, the District proudly recognized the Milfeld Foundation for their incredibly generous $100,000 donation to support our High School Art Program.
This extraordinary investment will have a meaningful impact on students across multiple grade levels by funding new kilns, updated equipment, and essential classroom supplies that enhance instruction and expand creative opportunities. The donation also opens the door for transformative student experiences, including potential educational travel opportunities such as a trip to Chicago to explore art, museums, and cultural institutions.
The Milfeld Foundation’s support strengthens our fine arts programming and reinforces the importance of creativity, expression, and innovation in our schools. We are deeply grateful for this partnership and the opportunities it creates for our students both inside and outside the classroom.
At last week’s Board of Education meeting, the District proudly recognized the Milfeld Foundation for their incredibly generous $100,000 donation to support our High School Art Program.
This extraordinary investment will have a meaningful impact on students across multiple grade levels by funding new kilns, updated equipment, and essential classroom supplies that enhance instruction and expand creative opportunities. The donation also opens the door for transformative student experiences, including potential educational travel opportunities such as a trip to Chicago to explore art, museums, and cultural institutions.
The Milfeld Foundation’s support strengthens our fine arts programming and reinforces the importance of creativity, expression, and innovation in our schools. We are deeply grateful for this partnership and the opportunities it creates for our students both inside and outside the classroom.
