Fordland Focus

District Update

September 16, 2024

Fordland Families,

Welcome to the 24-25 school year! We are excited to have our buildings full of students and staff again. Whether you are a returning Eagle or a new family joining our ranks, we value you and your support for our school district.

I am always eager for a new school year because it is an opportunity for growth, learning and achievement. This is my second year serving as superintendent and fourth year in Fordland R-3 Schools. If we have not already met, I hope to meet you and your child soon. Knowing our families and community is important to me. Do not hesitate to introduce yourself or approach me at a community event, activity or game. I look forward to meeting each of you.

As you may have read, Fordland once again received recognition for our award-winning programs. This year our Early Childhood Program received the MSBA FutureBuilders Program of the Year for the state of Missouri. This is a huge accomplishment and we are so proud of our preschool staff and students! The people in our district are the foundation of our success. We take pride in our work and love what we do.

Finally, your partnership matters to us. Successful schools depend on the support and involvement from families and the local community. Our Fordland team looks forward to continuing the collaboration between home and school. Thank you for supporting your child and us.

I believe this year promises to be one of the best yet for Fordland. #DoTheWork

Sincerely,

Dr. Stephanie Vickers

Superintendent

Fordland R-3 Schools

Fordland Early Childhood

Fordland Elementary

Fordland Middle School

Fordland High School

Faces of Fordland

Teresa Cardwell

Meet Mrs. Cardwell! She teaches math at Fordland Middle School. She has been with our district for 13 years. Mrs. Cardwell is described as passionate, organized and creative. Her favorite thing about working at Fordland is the small town feel. "Everyone knows someone you know."

Q: Tell us something that might surprise us about you.

A: "I was once a rodeo queen."

Q: What's something you can't live without?

A: "God."

Q: What advice would you give our students?

A: "If it is worth doing, give it 110% of your effort and persevere until it is right."

Cindy Pickett

Meet Mrs. Pickett! She is a paraprofessional at Fordland Middle School. She has been with our district for 22 years. Mrs. Pickett is described as loyal and dedicated. Her favorite thing about working at Fordland is the kids. "My coworkers at Fordland and the atmosphere are fantastic!"

Q: What is your favorite thing to do when you're not at work?

A: "Spend time with my grandson, Henry."

Q: What's something you can't live without?

A: "My family-they are my world."

Q: Who is your biggest inspiration?

A: "My mother-every morning we talk before school and she always says, 'give kindness to everyone'!"