Latest news with #JoplinSchools
Yahoo
02-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Joplin Schools names two new principals
JOPLIN, Mo. — Joplin Schools announced the promotions of two district educators Friday. The district said current assistant principals Josh Thompson (Soaring Heights Elementary) and Tylan Harris (Irving Elementary) will step into head principal roles at Jefferson Elementary and Eastmoreland Elementary, respectively. Thompson began working in the district in 2016, and has taught English Language Arts, and P.E. at East Middle School. Additionally, he was also head coach of the high school's boys and girls soccer teams from 2018-2023. He will succeed Kern Sorrell as Jefferson Elementary principal, who announced his retirement at the end of this school year. 'It is a true privilege to serve as the principal of Jefferson Elementary,' said Thompson. 'I'm excited to be part of such a hardworking and talented team that shares a deep passion for our community. Together, we will partner with families to ensure every student feels supported and prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.' Harris has served in the district since 2018, teaching fifth grade at Jefferson Elementary, and later coaching the Freshman Football Team from 2020-2023. Harris will succeed Heather Surbrugg as Eastmoreland Elementary principal on July 1. Surbrugg will transition to building leadership at Joplin Early Childhood, the district said. 'I am honored to begin this next chapter of my leadership journey at Eastmorland,' said Harris. 'The school, staff, students, and community partners have an excellent reputation, and I look forward to joining such a dedicated team. Heather Surbrugg has provided exceptional leadership, and I am committed to continuing the important work she has begun.' Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
27-04-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Kenny Peters named assistant principal at South Middle School
Kenneth Peters has been named the next assistant principal at South Middle School. Peters is currently a physical education teacher at South Middle School, where he has worked since 2008. He also currently serves as the district's PE Department Head and has spent time as a long-term administrative substitute at South. After beginning his career in Joplin Schools as a substitute teacher, Peters moved into a Paraprofessional position then a position as an industrial technology teacher. After completing a bachelor's degree in physical education and health from Missouri Southern State University in 2007, Peters went on to earn a master of education in secondary leadership from William Woods University in 2018. He has completed additional coursework at Missouri State University and Lincoln University. Peters was a Golden Apple Award nominee in 2020 and 2024. He is a certified coach who has held many coaching positions in Joplin Schools for a variety of sports including basketball, track and field, and cross country. He also is certified in Adaptive Schools Training, Cognitive Coaching and Crisis Prevention Intervention. Peters has also served as a mentor for first- and second-year teachers in Joplin Schools. South Middle School Principal Jacob Williams said in a statement: "His strong working knowledge of our staff, students and building makes him a natural fit for this role. Kenny has already dedicated countless hours supporting our office and building, and that experience has laid a solid foundation for the impactful work he will continue to do in the future."
Yahoo
26-03-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Candidates answer questions about schools
By Debby Woodin dwoodin@ Joplin voters will have four candidates to choose from in the April 8 election to fill two seats on the Joplin Board of Education. The Globe asked each of the candidates to answer a set of questions about the school district and its offerings. This is the first of four responses obtained from the candidates, who are Thomas Ross, an engineer; Lori Musser, a former board member and the academic success coach and coordinator of disability services at MSSU; Derek Gander, a former board member who owns a home inspection business; and incumbent David Weaver, accounting and finance professor at Pittsburg State University. Q: What strengths do you feel Joplin Schools offer students, parents and the Joplin community? Thomas Ross: 'Joplin Schools have many strengths, particularly the commitment to providing a well-rounded education for all students. 'One of the key strengths I see is the district's emphasis on both academic and extracurricular opportunities. With strong programs in STEM, the arts, and athletics, students have opportunities to excel in a variety of fields. 'Additionally, Joplin Schools have a supportive community of parents, educators and local businesses that work together to enhance student outcomes and opportunities. I am also proud of the district's commitment to providing a safe environment, which is essential for fostering academic success.' Lori Musser: 'Joplin Schools offer numerous strengths to students, parents and the community, many of which constituents may not be fully aware of. For instance, the district provides a variety of alternative and diverse academic programs. Programs such as Advanced Placement and Dual Credit allow students to earn college credits, often enabling some students to graduate high school with an entire year of college or even an associate degree already completed. 'Another notable strength of Joplin Schools is the Franklin Technology Center (FTC), which offers trade programs that prepare students for the workforce after graduation. Additionally, Joplin Schools has established several collaborative relationships with local industries and academic institutions, providing students with firsthand experience and knowledge of potential career opportunities or post-secondary education. I believe that Joplin school students are well-equipped to succeed in their chosen endeavors due to the diversity of these programs. 'Furthermore, the district offers many other strengths, such as early childhood programs, capital improvements at some elementary schools, and numerous opportunities for community and parental collaboration through committee participation. Joplin Schools excel in seeking feedback and input from students, parents and the community through these collaborative opportunities.' Derek Gander: 'I believe that Joplin offers a learning environment that benefits our students with awesome facilities and phenomenal staff. While I do believe we have room to grow, we have a solid foundation to work with.' David Weaver: 'Joplin Schools first and foremost have excellent and dedicated teachers who truly care about our students. We have taken good care of our buildings and are working toward providing the same level of facilities for all students. Our high school is large enough to offer many options for career-based to college-bound students. Our size allows us to offer a greater variety in each subject area as well as many electives to give students a chance to test out several career possibilities.'
Yahoo
06-03-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Area schools practice tornado safety in statewide drill
JOPLIN, Mo. — Many storm sirens across Missouri sounded today for the statewide tornado drill. At Kelsey Norman Elementary School in Joplin, kindergarten through 5th grade students joined the rest of the district in practicing what to do when that happens. Severe Weather Preparedness Week: Have a plan It's a chance for staff to evaluate what's working and what's not when it comes to keeping students safe during severe weather. Plus, it helps students understand the process and feel more comfortable about what to do should the 'real thing' ever happen. The district's director of safety and security notes the better facilities many of the schools have now, since the May 2011 tornado — like FEMA storm shelters or modern basements. 'You know, over time you become kind of lax in preparing if you've never really actually experienced the situation that you're preparing for. But, we've had that experience and we've learned from it. I don't think just as a district, but as a community,' said Jim Hounschell, Joplin Schools director of safety & security. The goal is to make it to safety in less than five minutes, although students and staff usually make it happen in much less time. Joplin schools are required to practice tornado drills four times a year — or two times a semester. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
18-02-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
‘Raise the Bar' aims to help feed students in need
JOPLIN, Mo. — Bright Futures was on hand at Joplin's Kaminsky Gym for tonight's basketball match-up against Carthage. During the games, the nonprofit was courtside with a special event called 'Raise the Bar.' Attendees were encouraged to participate by donating boxes of granola bars and snack packs. The program is dedicated to providing weekend food for students facing food insecurity. Currently, 64-percent of Joplin Schools students live in economic deprivation, with some elementary schools reporting rates of 80-percent. 'It's an item that most kids like. It's fairly nutritious, it's self stable, and we're going to give out 15,000 granola bars this school year so we need all the help we can get,' said Amanda Stone, Bright Futures Joplin Exec. Director. Joplin High School cheerleaders also supported 'Raising the Bar' at tonight's JV and varsity games by wearing Bright Futures t-shirts. Granola bars can be dropped off anytime at the district's Memorial Education Center located at 825 South Pearl Avenue. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
