South Callaway R-II Schools
A Message From the Superintendent
Dear Bulldog Families,
The beginning of a new school year is rapidly approaching and I’m excited to see our campus full of students and staff in the coming days. I hope the summer has been a time for our students to relax and recharge to prepare for a successful 24-25 school year.
Education is the most important key to unlock bright futures for our students. The strong partnership between school and home is necessary to inspire and motivate our students to reach their potential.
To ensure our students reach their potential and have the best education experience possible, we must work together to:
Work together to create a safe learning environment where our students, staff and families feel valued and respected.
Encourage open communication between all parties involved in the educational process.
Stress the importance of goal setting and assisting our students in the development of a plan to accomplish them.
Celebrate the victories and accomplishments of students and staff.
Emphasis the importance of self care. Adequate sleep, nutrition and regular exercise are key ingredients for student success.
Teach our students that a strong work ethic, respecting others, promptness, accountability, and perseverance are traits that are expected and will lead to success in all areas of their lives.
Approach all challenges we may encounter with the spirit of collaboration by showing our students that all parties involved are working together to accomplish the same goal of student success.
I’m very grateful to work in a community that has always valued and supported our school and our teachers/staff. This is the main reason why South Callaway has been so successful in the past and will continue to be successful in the future. Please enjoy the remaining days of summer and I look forward to working alongside you to make the 24-25 school year a positive and productive one.
Yours in Education,
Corey Pontius,
Superintendent
It Takes EVERYONE to Transport Our Students Safely!
Happy Summer!
Even though it's still summer break, the South Callaway R-II Transportation Department is busy making plans to give everyone a safe and secure ride to school when August 21st rolls around.
In order to make sure we all have a great trip to school and home, we're asking parents to review the bus rider rules with students now. On the first day of school, students of all ages will be asked to sign an agreement to follow a set of expectations for all riders. These rules were created to keep all students safe during the bus rides to and from school each day and are directed & enforced by Board Policy JCCF-R1.
For a complete review of the South Callaway R-II Bus Rules, see the image below.
To download a printable copy, click on the image or go to:
Enjoy the summer days and know that we are counting the days until we get to see our students again!
Sincerely,
Michelle Alford,
Director of Transportation
Three Great Summer Learning Events for Students!
Bulldog Power Up for Grades 3-5!
This summer camp for incoming 3rd, 4th, & 5th graders is designed to get students ready for the next school year by combine academics with FUN!
Register by clicking on the image or going to:
Middle School Readiness Camp!
Incoming 6th grader? Register for the MS Readiness Camp!
We'll practice finding classrooms, go over expectations & using planners, do activities in digital citizenship, boost skills in reading, writing, math, science, & social studies, and have some fun learning about Leader In Me and all the MS clubs & organizations available.
Register by clicking on the image or go to:
Camp Kindergarten!
Four days of fun and learning about how to be a kindergartener! Students will learn some rules of the school, practice some daily routines, try out those skills with some fun learning activities, knock out some pre-assessments for the year, and make new friends along the way. This is a completely free camp, open to all incoming South Callaway Kindergarten students.
Just click on the image or go to: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfIfg_thjYWYTrrB-by0RlmL9dryv6LpDmmSAsrxSsgiVLqXA/viewform
A Message from the Early Childhood Principal!
Greetings from South Callaway Early Childhood! As the warm days of summer continue, we hope you're enjoying quality time with your loved ones and making wonderful memories. Here at South Callaway, we are eagerly preparing for the 2024-25 school year and are excited to share some updates and information with you.
Welcome Back
We are delighted to welcome our returning students and extend a special greeting to the new families joining our community. The upcoming school year promises to be filled with learning, growth, and joyful experiences. Our team of passionate educators is dedicated to fostering a nurturing environment where every child can thrive.
Meet Our Team
We are thrilled to introduce some new members to our teaching staff, who bring fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to our school. We welcome Ms. Gracie Henrikson (kindergarten), Ms. Kacie Johnson (1st grade) and Mrs. Kelly Easley (special education). Our educators are committed to creating a supportive and dynamic learning environment for all students. Join us at our Back-to-School Open House to meet the teachers, explore the classrooms, and learn more about what’s in store for the year.
Save the Date
Open House - Join us on Monday, August 19, 2024 5:00-7:00 p.m. for a fun and informative evening. It's a great opportunity to meet the teachers, tour the school, and reconnect with friends.
First Day of School- School begins on Wednesday, August 21, 2024 and we can't wait to see our students' bright smiles as they embark on a new school year.
Stay Connected
Communication is key to a successful school year. We encourage you to stay informed and engaged through our various communication channels:
School Website: Visit https://www.sc.k12.mo.us/ for the latest news, calendar updates, and important information.
Social Media: Follow us on Facebook and Class DOJO for real-time updates and glimpses into daily school life throughout the district.
Newsletters: Watch for our regular newsletters, which will keep you informed about upcoming events, important dates, and classroom highlights.
Looking Forward
As we anticipate the start of the new school year, we are filled with hope and excitement. We believe that with your support and partnership, this year will be an outstanding one for our students. Thank you for entrusting us with your child's education. Together, we will create a nurturing and enriching environment that encourages every student to reach their full potential.
Enjoy the rest of your summer, and we look forward to welcoming you back to South Callaway Early Childhood soon!
Warm regards,
Leigh Dunlap
Principal, South Callaway Early Childhood
A Message from the Elementary School Principal!
Welcome back Bulldog family!
We are really excited to get the 2024/25 SY started here at the ES. The start of a new school year is always a thrilling time filled with anticipation and excitement. To our new students, whether you’re transitioning to 3rd grade or joining us for the first time, we welcome you to the building. We look forward to meeting and getting to know you more. To our returning students, welcome back to familiar halls and classrooms. We cannot wait to see you again! South Callaway Elementary works hard to meet all the needs of your child. Our motto we stand by is: Every Child, Every Chance, Every Day!
Please join me in welcoming our newest Bulldog Teachers.
Joining us this year are Nicole Jenkins and Ann Rickerson.
Ms. Jenkins is joining us from Pioneer Trail in Jefferson City where she taught 4th grade. She has over 25 years of experience in teaching. She will join our 5th grade team this upcoming school year.
Mrs. Rickerson is no stranger to the district and even the Elementary building. She previously served as Elementary and Middle School secretary for 17 years. She will join our Special Education department.
We look forward to seeing you all at our Device Distribution and Registration Assistance on August 12th from 11:00am-7:00pm and August 13th from 10:00am-6:00pm located in the HS. Also to note is our Open House event which will be held on Monday, August 19th from 5:00-7:00 pm. Our first day of school is set for Wednesday August 21st. Enjoy the rest of your summer Bulldogs and we will see you soon!
Let’s make SY 24-25 our best year yet!
It’s a Great Day to be a Bulldog!
Adam DuBuque,
SCES Principal
A Message from the Middle School Principal!
Dear Students, Parents/Guardians:
Welcome back to another exciting year of learning at SCMS! I trust you have enjoyed your summer and are ready to get back into the routines of the school year. I want to extend a special welcome to all of our new students, families and staff! If your son or daughter is new to SCMS, or just anxious about starting a new school year, please help with their adjustment by reassuring and encouraging them that new friendships will be made, old acquaintances renewed and they will have a very good year of learning. (One great way to start for incoming 6th graders is by taking advantage of the Middle School Readiness Camp scheduled for July 30-August 1!)
Before you know it, students will quickly settle into school and classroom routines. For the first couple days of school, students will participate in “get to know you” activities with their teachers, i.e. learn about school-wide expectations and practice fire, tornado and earthquake drills. Please also keep in mind that students ONLY have the first 5 days of each semester to make schedule changes.
Join me in welcoming some new members to our Middle School Team!
Mrs. Ann Rickerson, former MS secretary, will be joining the SPED faculty working in the Elementary & Middle School buildings. Taking her seat in the MS Office is Mrs. Angela Adrian. And, joining us as the new MS Technology Teacher for Grades 6-8 is Mr. Tom Fox. In the ELA Department we welcome Mrs. Paige Patterson to grade 7.
Once again, I want to welcome our students, staff and parents back for another exciting year of learning together. We are excited to have you at school and look forward to a wonderful and highly successful school year.
Sincerely,
Gary Bonsall,
SCMS Principal
Missouri Family Resources
Missouri Family Resources is a free and easy way to connect them to resources in their community. Find and share programs for young children and their families like food pantries, health services, and transportation at familyresources.mo.gov.
SC R-II HIGH SCHOOL: GRADES 9-12!
A Message from the High School Principal!
Hello, Students & Parents
I hope this message finds you enjoying a wonderful summer and eagerly anticipating the school year ahead. It is with great enthusiasm and a deep sense of responsibility that I step into this role as your High School Principal.
Our school is a cornerstone of the community, a place where each student’s potential is recognized and nurtured. As your High School Principal, my vision is to build on the strengths of our school while cultivating a culture of excellence, hard work, and innovation.
Academic Excellence: We will continue to push the boundaries of academic achievement, ensuring that every student has access to high-quality education and the tools they need to succeed.
Community and Collaboration: Education is a collaborative effort. I am committed to fostering strong partnerships with parents, teachers, and community members. Together, we can create an environment where every student feels valued, supported, and challenged to be their best.
Student Well-being: The well-being of our students is paramount. We will focus on providing a safe, inclusive, and positive learning environment where all students can thrive socially, emotionally, and academically.
Innovation and Growth: In a rapidly changing world, it is crucial that we equip our students with the skills and mindset necessary to adapt and excel. We will embrace innovative teaching practices and encourage a culture of lifelong learning.
Hard Work: We will create a culture that encourages hard work and perseverance. Encouraging our students to reach their goals through consistent hard work and embracing the daily challenges that will come in life.
Save the Dates for These Upcoming Events
New to the District Enrollment Day - August 1st 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM in the High School Building
Senior Composite Pictures - August 6th Seniors will be contacted directly by Wagner to schedule a time.
Device Distribution Days - August 12th 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM and August 13th 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM in the High School Building
Freshman Orientation - August 17th 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM in the High School Building
I look forward to seeing you in the hallways or at a school activity soon!
Tucker Bartley,
SCHS Principal
New Student Enrollment is a Two-Step Process!
Step 1: Complete the forms found at the registration links.
Step 2: Make an appointment for an in-person visit on July 29 or August 1.
What is Proof of Residency?
Proof That You Live in the South Callaway R-II School District:
A. If you own your home, please bring the following:
● Legal property description of residence, deed, paid real estate tax bill and/or signed purchase contract with possession date of closing date no more than 40 days prior to possession date.
● Current utility bill, i.e. gas, electric, land-line phone (no cell), water, trash, cable bill; the bill must show the parent/legal guardian's name enrolling the student and service address. Dated within last 30 days.
B. If you rent, please bring the following:
● Current signed lease or rental agreement that has been signed by all parties. Landlord's contact information must be provided as well as start and end dates of lease. If NO signed lease/rental agreement is available, the landlord will need to come to the school and fill out a notary verified form.
● Current utility bill, i.e. gas, electric, land-line phone (no cell), water, trash, cable bill; the bill must show the parent/legal guardian's name enrolling the student and service address. Dated within last 30 days.
NOTE: HANDWRITTEN LETTERS, DISCONNECTION AND PAST DUE NOTICES ARE NOT ACCEPTABLE FORMS OF PROOF OF RESIDENCY.
Let's Talk About Technology!
This summer the SC Technology Department is busy preparing for the 2024 / 25 school year. Among other things we are installing new computers in our labs, creating accounts for new staff and students, and getting new iPads ready for students to use during the upcoming school year.
Starting in the 24 / 25 school year, students and staff will be using 10th generation iPads. These iPads boast a larger display, faster processing, and increased storage. There are a couple of particular features which you need to be aware of before your student receives their device for the 24 / 25 school year. We would like any readers to note well that these changes are beyond our control.
iPad 10s do not have headphone ports. There are headphones which utilize USB-C connectors such as this model from Amazon. There are also adaptors such as this model from Walmart. Consult your student’s school supply list as it may make recommendations about how to best address this issue.
iPad 10s have a USB-C charging port and use USB-C charge cables. Students in grades 3 through 12 will be issued a charge block / cable when they begin taking their devices home. This will be the only instance where the school will provide a “free” charge block / cable to students. If that charge block / cable is lost or becomes damaged, the student’s family will be responsible for its replacement. Students will keep the school-issued charge block / cable in their possession until they leave our school district OR until the end of the 2026 / 27 school year.
iPad 10s do not have a “home” button. If you need assistance on how to adapt to this evolution of the device you can watch How to Use an iPad Without a Home Button and / or view this PDF to learn more.
If your student has a 1st generation Apple Pencil you will need to acquire an adaptor, like this example from Amazon, to connect it to your student’s iPad 10. There are also updated models of Apple Pencil which connect to the device via USB-C.
We also encourage you to consider enrolling your student(s) in the iPad Protection Plan, which functions as a form of insurance against damage to the iPads. Understand that the increased costs associated with production and quality of our new devices have translated into increased costs of repair. Listed below are some important things for you to know about iPad Protection Plan.
Students who participate in this Protection Plan will be covered for the cost of repair, for unintentional damage, up to the purchase cost of the device each school year.
Students who do not participate in this Protection Plan will be fined for any costs to repair their school-issued iPad. The plan must be joined before the damage occurs.
The iPad Protection Plan covers costs to the repair of the iPad itself. If the school determines a student inflicted intentional damage upon their iPad case, and the school determines the case needs to be replaced, the student will be fined for the cost of the case’s replacement. It is worth noting here that we require that students keep their iPads in their cases at all times.
Parents / Guardians will be able to enroll / re-enroll students in the iPad Protection Program when they register them for the upcoming 24 / 25 school year.
Thank you for reading. We in the Technology Department are looking forward to having a great 24 / 25 school year.
Chad Hecktor,
Director of Technology
Teaching & Learning... The SC Way!
Psst! Don’t tell the kids, but that comic book they’re thumbing through this afternoon is good for them. The fashion or car magazine they seem to be more interested in than making their bed is reducing their stress levels. And, the grocery list they are adding snack foods to for the camping trip is helping them build decision-making skills. (Don’t worry. You can make them read the food labels once you’re at the store.) Overall, anything they read this summer is just great!
We talk a lot about reading during the school year. Just about everyone has heard some version of the old adage about first learning to read and then reading to learn. As hard as teachers work with students to help them develop important skills they will use for a lifetime while they are in the classroom, reading done at home during the summer offers even stronger benefits for students.
Summer reading prevents learning loss, expands vocabulary, enhances imagination and creativity, improves concentration, and strengthens concentration and critical thinking. It can also help children develop empathy and even reduces stress as they unwind from all the “teacher” assignments in favor of topics that interest them.
Kids don’t need to read a lot or for a long time, but they do need to know how much their parents value this activity. If you are looking for ways to let your child know how much you value reading, here are a few tips.
Lead by Example: Children often emulate their parents' behaviors. If they see you reading regularly and enjoying it, they are more likely to develop a positive attitude toward reading.
Create a Reading-Friendly Environment: Dedicate a cozy reading corner or space in your home with comfortable seating and good lighting. Make sure there are plenty of age-appropriate books readily available. You can even have your child read a recipe or box instructions while you are cooking meals.
Read Together: Establish a routine of reading together regularly. This can be a bedtime story, reading a chapter of a book aloud, or discussing books you're both reading independently.
Discuss What You Have Read: Engage your child in conversations about books they're reading or have read. Ask about their favorite characters, interesting plot points, or what they've learned from the information presented.
Overall, summer reading is one of the very best things we can do to help students prepare for a great start to a new school year. Just don't let them in on the secret!
Mary Van Orden,
Director of Curriculum & Instruction
New Faces in the Special Services Department!
We are thrilled to announce some exciting changes taking place in our Special Education Department here at South Callaway. We are dedicated to providing the best possible education and support to all of our students, and these changes reflect our commitment to excellence.
First and foremost, we are delighted to welcome two new members to our team: Ann Rickerson and Kelly Easley. Both Ann and Kelly bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their roles, and we are confident that they will make valuable contributions to our department.
Meet Ann Rickerson: Ann is a proud graduate of South Callaway, and we are delighted to welcome her back to our team. With a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and Marketing, as well as a Master's degree in IT Management from Western Governors University, Ann has a diverse background that will serve her well in her new role as a teacher in our Special Education Department. Ann previously served as an administrative assistant in our department, as well as in both the Elementary and Middle School Buildings. We are excited to see her return to where she started, this time as a teacher serving students in both the elementary and middle school.
Meet Kelly Easley: Another familiar face returning to our team is Kelly Easley, a graduate of South Callaway. Kelly earned her Bachelor's degree in Cross Categorical Special Education K-12 and Elementary Education from the University of Missouri, and went on to receive a Master's degree in Early Childhood Special Education and Autism. Kelly began her career serving students at Bush Elementary in Fulton, and we are thrilled to welcome her back home to serve students in our Early Childhood Learning Center.
Additional Changes: In addition to welcoming new members to our team, we are also excited to announce some internal changes. Dawn Danuser, who has been with the district since 2009, will be transitioning from her position as Title I teacher to special education. With her extensive experience teaching special education, general education, and Title I, Dawn will be a valuable asset to our department as she serves students in elementary, middle, and high school.
We are also pleased to share that Cassie Miller will be transitioning from the Early Childhood building to the High school, where she will continue to serve students in the elementary, middle, and high school.
Lastly, we are thrilled to welcome back Megan Wieberg, who began her career at South Callaway 6 years ago. After a brief stint at Southern Boone, Megan is returning, and will be serving students in the high school with a focus on ELA and Study Skills.
We are incredibly proud of all of our teachers and excited to see what great things they will accomplish during the 24/25 school year. Please join us in welcoming Ann, Kelly, and all of our dedicated educators to their new roles.
Amanda Wogan,
Director of Special Services
Important Information for All Fall Semester Sports & Activities!
I hope everyone is enjoying their much needed summer break and recharging their batteries for the 24-25 school year. It is not quite time for a welcome back, but there is much information to share about all the activity happening in our South Callaway R-II Schools.
As we head into July and August there are several dates to make sure and put on your calendar.
AUGUST 12 - HS Fall Sport 1st Practice Date
Times and locations will be sent via school messenger.
AUGUST 19 - MS Fall Sport 1st Practice Date
Time and location will be sent via school messenger.
AUGUST 19 - HS Athlete AND Parent Athletic Meeting*
6:30 PM in the PAC (HS Auditorium)
AUGUST 28 - MS Athlete AND Parent Athletic Meeting
5:30 PM in the PAC (HS Auditorium)
*The parent meeting is a requirement for all high school athletes to participate in a sport this school year. Each athlete must have one parent/guardian in attendance at this meeting in order to play in a sports competition for the year.
Please make sure that your child has an updated physical for this school year. If a physical is not on file with the athletic office the student will not be allowed to participate in practices or contests. You may contact your child's sport coach, activity sponsor, or athletic director via email to check on the status of your child's physical. (Download the printable contact list found below.)
Reminder, all sports and activities (HS/MS band, HS/MS Choir, HS/MS scholar bowl) are now required by MSHSAA to have a current physical on file in order to participate.
In Other News...
We are excited for everyone to see the completion of a couple of athletic upgrades to our campus. Our HS gym floor received a face lift and we have a new batting cage at our softball field.
We are also excited to begin play in a new conference. Starting in the fall of 2024 South Callaway will be a member of the newly formed Central State 8 Conference. Schools included in our new conference are Eugene, Fayette, Harrisburg, Linn, New Bloomfield, Russellville and Tipton.
Finally, if you are looking for SC gear before next school year, you should check out our new online team store at https://bit.ly/3W1bmpJ .
Enjoy the rest of the summer break. We can wait to see you in August!
Tony Brandt,
Director of Activities & Athletics
A Tribute to Military Service Project!
A Digital Graduate Class Composite Board showing each SCHS throughout history is located at the entrance to the gymnasium in the HS Commons. This interactive history of our district is missing something: a record of South Callaway graduates who have served in any branch of the US Military. We are asking for the public’s help in completing our historical display with the addition of:
A Tribute to the Military Service of Mokane & South Callaway High School Graduates!
For complete instructions about how to submit an entry for yourself, or on behalf of a loved one (living or deceased), go to: https://bit.ly/3ua5Pmf or click on the picture above.
Contact Us Directly by Phone or Email!
Contact South Callaway R-II Schools...
Main Number: 573-676-5225
South Callaway R-II Early Childhood: PAT & Grades PK-2, Dial 1
- E-mail the Principal - leigh.dunlap@sc.k12.mo.us
South Callaway R-II Elementary School: Grades 3-5, Dial 2
- E-mail the Principal - adam.dubuque@sc.k12.mo.us
South Callaway R-II Middle School: Grades 6-8, Dial 3
- E-mail the Principal - gary.bonsall@sc.k12.mo.us
South Callaway R-II High School: Grades 9-12, Dial 4
- E-mail the Principal - tucker.bartley@sc.k12.mo.us
South Callaway R-II Special Services Department: Dial 5
- E-mail the Director - amanda.wogan@sc.k12.mo.us
South Callaway R-II Transportation Department: Dial 6
- E-mail the Director - michelle.alford@sc.k12.mo.us
South Callaway R-II Athletics Department: Dial 7
- E-mail the Director - tony.brandt@sc.k12.mo.us
South Callaway R-II Maintenance Department: Dial 8
- E-mail the Director - chad.mealy@sc.k12.mo.us
South Callaway R-II Central Office: Dial 0
- For the General Inquiry & Reception Desk - dana.pickering@sc.k12.mo.us
- For the Human Resources Dept. - debbie.popplewell@sc.k12.mo.us
- For the Accounting Dept. - autumn.young@sc.k12.mo.us
- For the Technology Dept. - chad.hecktor@sc.k12.mo.us
- For Curriculum & Instruction - mary.vanorden@sc.k12.mo.us
- For the Superintendent - corey.pontius@sc.k12.mo.us
Website: www.sc.k12.mo.us. USPS: 10135 State Rd C, Mokane, MO, 65059
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This digital newsletter is published by the South Callaway R-II School District on a quarterly basis throughout the school year. In SY 24-25, newsletters were published on 7/8/24, 10/7/24, 1/13/25, & 4/7/25. A weblink to the newsletter will be sent by SchoolMessenger to parents, by email to employees, and available on the website and all District social media accounts.