From the Desk of Dr. Merlyn Johnson
Great things continue to happen in Cassville as we begin November. Our Wildcats are preparing for postseason football, learning continues in classrooms across the district, and students are getting ready to honor those who have served our country. These efforts share a common thread: people who show up and give their best. Strong schools depend on that commitment from students, parents, teachers, support staff, business owners, volunteers and voters. Each has a part in creating opportunities for the next generation.
Recent events at Cassville Schools provide some good examples. At our October 21 career fair, high school students explored possibilities beyond graduation. They had opportunities to learn about welding, military service and employment with the Department of Natural Resources, among other paths. For a teenager considering the future, a conversation with someone working in a particular field can make that future feel more within reach. Those connections matter. We want students to leave Cassville High School with a strong academic foundation and a practical understanding of where their interests and abilities might lead them. That may mean college, technical training, military service or entering the workforce.
First State Bank of the Ozarks has helped make that work possible through a $28,000 contribution supporting career exploration and workforce readiness. With support through the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines’ Member Impact Fund, this investment is helping students develop workplace skills and plan for life after high school. I appreciate businesses that recognize the connection between investing in students and strengthening our community.
Our FFA students recently provided another example through Food for America. They helped younger students learn about agriculture, farm equipment and where their food comes from. Older students had the opportunity to teach, and younger students had the opportunity to ask questions and experience something firsthand. In a world where so much information is available on a screen, experiences like these remain valuable. Students need opportunities to explain an idea, ask a question, work with others and connect classroom learning to everyday life. Technology can support learning, but we must continue making room for conversation, curiosity and hands-on experiences. There is also plenty to celebrate on the football field. Our Wildcats finished the regular season 8–1 and earned the top seed in their district. We are scheduled to host a district semifinal this Friday night (November 6). I am proud of our players and coaches for the work that brought them to this point.
The lessons extend beyond the scoreboard. Preparation, accountability and teamwork matter in athletics, just as they do in classrooms, workplaces and families. Thank you to everyone who supports our students in those efforts, including the students whose contributions come through music, cheer, clubs and other activities.
Showing up also carries a responsibility beyond our school grounds. Just this week, we were reminded that elections help determine the direction of Missouri education. The legislators elected this week will make decisions about school funding and the expectations placed on public schools. Those decisions eventually reach individual classrooms, including ours. I am hopeful that those who won their elections are open and willing to support our public schools to build stronger futures for our children and their families. As superintendent, I want our elected leaders to understand what their decisions mean for Cassville students. Reliable funding helps us plan, retain quality employees and provide opportunities. Local input helps policymakers understand the needs of the communities their decisions affect. That conversation must continue after Election Day. I encourage readers to stay informed, ask questions and help our representatives understand the value of strong public schools. We also have a responsibility as school leaders to explain our needs clearly and use the resources entrusted to us wisely.
Soon, our students will offer another reminder of the responsibilities we share as citizens. Our third-grade patriotic music program is scheduled this Thursday, November 5 at 6pm, and our high school Veterans Day program will be next Wednesday, November 11 at 9am. Both will take place in the Performing Arts Center. These programs give our students an opportunity to express gratitude and learn about service from the people who have lived it. I hope our veterans know how much their example means to our schools and community.
As we move through November, I encourage everyone to find a way to stay involved. Attend a student event. Read with a child. Share your career experience. Communicate with a teacher. Thank a veteran. I am grateful for the many people who already do these things. Your involvement helps our students see that their education and their future matter to the people around them.
Go Wildcats!