Back to School Round Up

School Readiness Fair blesses Stone County families

On Friday, August 8, New Testament Christian Church in Reeds Spring buzzed with activity, as area business, nonprofits and churches hosted the 2025 Stone County School Readiness Fair. Over 550 families signed up to attend the annual event, which provides families the opportunity to shop for school necessities and services to help boost kids into a successful school year. 

The Fair is coordinated by Unite Table Rock Lake and brings together volunteers and donors from across the county, with additional assistance from Christian Action Ministries and Convoy of Hope, both of whom helped provide food boxes. 

As families arrived for their appointment, friendly volunteers greeted them to coach them through the experience. After signing in and receiving a backpack, students made their way through numerous booths to receive school supplies and hygiene items, and then visited the shoe room for new tennis shoes through Stone County Shoe Ministry; a haircut station; referrals for eye exams; mental and physical health clinics; and more. The Gideons International provided a Bible for any child wanting one. ArisingNHope clothing ministry provided an outfit, or items to combine into several outfits, for each student. After families worked their way through the building, and enjoyed food provided by Chick-fil-A and Flat Creek Restaurant, additional volunteers were on hand to help with loading the items into each family’s vehicle. 

“This is not just about handing out supplies,” said local business owner Maureen Darby who serves through Unite TRL. “It also gives the excitement of back-to-school shopping, and the self-esteem kids need to start the year with confidence.” Darby particularly pointed out the school swag room, where each students received a T-shirt or other merch for their particular school, something that is sometimes financially out of reach for families. 

The variety of businesses, nonprofits and ministries who volunteered or provided supplies and giveaways, was an impressive testament to the community spirit of Stone County. “I look forward to this,” said one church volunteer. “If my being here can encourage just one child in their faith or to stay in school, it’s so very worth it!” 

Unite Table Rock Lake members and community partners won’t sit back and relax for too long, as plans are already being made for the annual Stone County Christmas Assistance event planned for December 7 and 8. Visit the Facebook page for updates and to see how you can help. 

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New teachers report to Reeds Spring

Twenty-seven teachers joined Reed Spring Schools on Thursday, August 7. They learned about the district's culture, values and what it means to be part of the Wolf Pack family."We’re so excited for the energy, passion and talent they’re bringing to our classrooms," said Superintendent Dr. Cody Hirschi. 

New teachers are as follows:

·       Caitlin Acuff

·       Jessica Braman

·       Laura Cogdill

·       Erin Harwood

·       Abigail Hoenshell

·       Wyatt Humble

·       Robyn Hurst

·       Dalton Kelley

·       Brooke Keys

·       Logan Lauffer

·       Laura Maier

·       Antoinette Martin

·       Bryan Miller

·       Morgan Miller

·       Lacey Mitchell

·       Megan Nelson

·       Lacie Oxenreider

·       Stone Phelps

·       Traci Pratt

·       Caleb Reynolds

·       Zach Reineri

·       Amber Saffel

·       Sydney Sanders

·       Paige Tate

·       Katy Webb

·       Jake Williams

·      Olivia Wilkins