VIENNA — The Maries County R-1 School Board of Education convened this week for a meeting that ranged from health initiatives to construction projects, summer programming, senior trips and staffing changes. Board members spent considerable time discussing policies, partnerships and practical measures designed to benefit both students and staff, with a focus on safety, efficiency and educational opportunities.

One of the first topics addressed was the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) memorandum of understanding, which allows the school nurse direct access to the Missouri Immunization Registry. This agreement gives the nurse immediate access to students’ health information. This shows how the system streamlines record-keeping at the beginning of the school year or when new students enroll. Board members approved the measure unanimously, with no associated cost to the district.

The board also renewed its memorandum of understanding with Nichols Career Center, a longstanding arrangement that allows district students to attend agricultural classes off-site. The board highlighted a particular student who has attended Nichols for years, noting the humorous and familiar traditions that accompany these annual approvals.

“We have, for years…had one student attend Nichols.” Superintendent Teresa Messersmith said. illustrating both the continuity and value of the program for students interested in agriculture. Approval of this agreement ensures continued access to career-focused learning opportunities.

Matt Approved and Jacob Second the motion. Was approved unanimously. NEED TO GET LAST NAMES

Policy updates from the Missouri School Boards Association (MSBA) were another major agenda item. While most policies were approved, board members chose to defer adoption of Policy JHD, the behavioral threat assessment policy. Although the policy is designed to systematically identify and address potential student safety risks, the district does not currently conduct formal behavioral threat assessments. The board noted that while such measures are increasingly common and highly recommended, adopting the policy at this time would not align with current practices.

Extracurricular programs also received attention. The district’s archery program, spanning elementary, middle and high schools, will benefit from a Conservation Department grant that provides targets, equipment, and other essential materials. While the district contributes $100 per grant level, totaling $300, the board emphasized the value of the program.

“We get a lot for our $300, its well worth it and I told coach Simmons to move forward with this” Messersmith said, noting the program’s popularity, with more than 60 students participating last year, and the success achieved by Coach Simmons and his team in building engagement across grade levels.

Summer programming was reviewed through a summary provided by Catapult, the program’s external provider. During the past summer, 139 students attended at least one day of the program, with an average daily attendance of 123.76 and a 93.7% attendance rate. The program ran 22 days for a total of 154 instructional hours. Financially, summer school yielded $164,657 in revenue against $152,131 in expenses, leaving a surplus of $12,525, according to Messersmith.

“Its a nice service to our community and our parents,” Messersmith said. “Even if we break even with summer school that is great and we came up with twelve thousand which is great.”

Preparations for graduation were also finalized. High school graduation will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, May 8, in the high school gymnasium, while eighth-grade promotion ceremonies are scheduled for 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 20, in the same location. The final day of school for all students will be May 21, which is a Wednesday. Board members noted that previous evening ceremonies were well received and encouraged strong community attendance to celebrate the students’ achievements.

Construction projects were another significant agenda item. The board approved a change order from Alexander Construction totaling $46,891. The work includes the installation of trench drains, adjustments to the fire alarm system, concrete footing, sidewalk repairs and additional site preparation such as seeding and strawing of disturbed areas. Board members reviewed credits applied to previous work, as well as costs for new installations, emphasizing careful financial oversight and ensuring the projects meet the district’s operational and safety standards. Safety concerns were also raised regarding exterior lighting near the elementary gym and alleyways, with board members suggesting motion-activated lights to improve visibility during evening practices and events.

Staffing changes were also a major focus. The board accepted the resignations of elementary teacher Dixie Ives, who cited ongoing medical issues, and paraprofessional Diane Mason. The board then moved to hire Mason as a long-term substitute in a third-grade classroom, with the intent for her to transition to a full-time role in the future. “She’s getting a little more time to try those wings early,” a board member remarked, emphasizing the district’s commitment to supporting staff and providing continuity for students.

In addition, plans for the senior trip were confirmed and approved by the board. Senior Aubrey Schwartze spoke to the board about the trip including that they will travel to Panama City, Fl from April 30th to May 4th of next year, participating in a series of educational and recreational activities designed to celebrate their final year.

Board members agreed the trip is a meaningful milestone for students, giving them an opportunity to create lasting memories with classmates before graduation.