Tri-Lakes Education News
BRANSON SCHOOLS
Branson Public Schools: Get involved with PTO, Branson Education Foundation
Great schools are built on more than what happens inside the classroom. They’re strengthened by families who volunteer, community members who invest their time and talents, and organizations that provide opportunities and resources for students and staff. Two important partners helping make that happen across Branson Schools are Branson PTO and the Branson Education Foundation.
Behind so many of the fun and meaningful experiences throughout the school year is a village of Branson Schools families working together through Branson PTO.
PTO volunteers support our schools in countless ways - from organizing Teacher and Staff Appreciation events and volunteering at Book Fairs and Picture Day to supporting the Clothing Bank and helping provide Field Trip Supplementation, Literacy Events and Student Enrichment Programs. Just as importantly, PTO creates opportunities for families to connect, build relationships and become more involved in their children’s schools.
A few PTO myths worth busting:
Myth: I have to volunteer all the time.
Truth: PTO is looking for volunteers who can help in ways that fit their schedules. Every helping hand makes a difference.
Myth: PTO meetings are only for adults.
Truth: Kids are welcome at PTO meetings! Bring them along and let them see what it means to be part of their school community.
Myth: Volunteering has to feel like work.
Truth: It can be fun! Even something as simple as shopping for items for the Clothing Bank can become an opportunity to connect with other volunteers while making a direct difference for Branson students.
The PTO kick-off meeting is September 17 at 9 a.m. at the District Offices. Families interested in learning more can email pto@branson.k12.mo.us and follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bransonpto
While PTO provides hands-on support and builds connections within our school community, the Branson Education Foundation (BEF) helps provide resources that expand what’s possible in our classrooms.
Founded in 2010 by Branson community members, the Foundation is an independent 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting the students and staff of Branson Schools. The Foundation has awarded more than $200,000 to the district through classroom grants and senior scholarships.
One of the Foundation’s most visible ways of supporting teachers is through its monthly classroom grant program. During the 2026-2027 school year, the Foundation will gift up to $2,000 each month to help teachers purchase materials, experiences and resources that enhance learning and aren’t funded through other means.
The Foundation isn’t just looking for financial support, they’re looking for people who want to be part of the work, too. Community members are welcome to get involved, share their time and talents, and volunteer with the Foundation. If you know someone who is passionate about the future of Branson students and teachers, this is a great opportunity to get connected.
There truly is no better example of Branson Schools mission statement: “A Community Committed to Learning.” Learn more about how you can get involved today! Visit www.bransoneducationfoundation.org for more information and follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BransonEducationFoundation
Portrait of a Pirate in 2026 - 2027 (SUBMITTED)
At Branson Public Schools, we believe education is about more than academics. We want every student to develop the skills and character qualities they need to thrive in school, in their future careers and in life.
We’re kicking off the 2026–2027 school year with adaptability. Adaptability is the ability to embrace change and keep moving forward, no matter the situation.
Change is a natural part of growing up - and a natural part of school. Students encounter new teachers, new classmates, new challenges, unexpected situations and opportunities to try something different. And families play an important role, too. When children see the adults around them respond to change with patience, flexibility and perseverance, they learn that it’s okay to adjust, try again and keep going.
This year, we’re also excited to add student voice to the conversation. In collaboration with Branson High School Mass Media students, we’ll share monthly Portrait of a Pirate videos featuring our students and real-life examples of what each trait looks like in action. Families can watch for these videos on our district YouTube channel and social media throughout the year.
As we begin this journey, we invite families to talk with their students about adaptability at home, too. Ask them about a time they had to adjust to a change, overcome an unexpected challenge or try a new approach.
Adapt. Adjust. Keep going. That’s what it means to be a Branson Pirate.
HOLLISTER SCHOOLS
SPORTS: Rough night at home – Tigers fall 43 - 0 to Bears (BY AJ FAHR, Staff Writer)
In their home opener on Friday, Sept. 4, the Hollister Tigers took on the Sarcoxie Bears in a non-league match.
The Tigers have mixed results against the Bears in recent years, losing in 2024 but winning last season. The Bears have a tough team this season with a formidable defense.
Unfortunately for the Tigers, the Bears defense was airtight at Tiger Stadium. The Bears never gave the Tigers a chance to score. They took their game with ease, bagging a 43-0 win over the Tigers. The Bears have a flawless start to their season with a 2-0 record and surrendering zero points at either game.
The Tigers will compete against the Fair Grove Eagles this Friday in a Mid-Lakes Conference matchup. The Tigers hope to rally back in conference play.
In other games
The Branson Pirates headed to Rolla to face off against the Rolla Bulldogs. The Pirates started strong with two big touchdowns. Will Wilson scored a 95-yard return of the opening kickoff. Tred Houston scored an 85-yard punt return touchdown. Rolla tried to answer back but was denied the lead, never getting closer than seven points from the Pirates. The Pirates won 49-20.
The Forsyth Panthers had a close game against the Marionville Comets on Friday Night. The Panthers led most of the game, but gave up a touchdown in the final minute, falling to the Comets 30-26.
The Reeds Spring Wolves fell to the Marshfield Blue Jays in a big loss at their home opener. The Wolves were only able to get one touchdown on the board. The Blue Jays won 50-6.
REEDS SPRING SCHOOLS
SPORTS: Fall sports season begins for Reeds Spring High School (SUBMITTED)
Football: Reeds Spring High School’s football team won its season opener, defeating Springfield Parkview 7-6. Blake Murphy scored on a rushing touchdown, and Aiden Wohletz added the extra point. Murphy finished with 272 rushing yards.
Volleyball: At the Branson Invitational, the RSHS volleyball team lost to Rolla and Springfield Catholic and tied with Lebanon and Mt. Vernon.
Girls golf, girls tennis, and cross country will all start soon.
SCHOOL OF THE OZARKS
School of the Ozarks hires new faculty member (SUBMITTED)
School of the Ozarks welcomes Leah Pyatt as the new instructor of visual arts for the upcoming academic year. Pyatt will be teaching a wide range of students from grades 1 through 12. Students in her class will be introduced to the elements and principles of design, study and reproduce masterworks, and ask questions about beauty and its importance in our lives as followers of Jesus and co-creators with the Great Artist.
Pyatt graduated Magna Cum Laude from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte with a Bachelor of Arts in dance with a concentration in performance, choreography and theory. Pyatt then went on to receive a Master of Arts in educational leadership and classical Christian school administration at Gordon College.
Pyatt’s experience in classical education, love of beauty and desire to see students captured by the wonder of Jesus make her a valuable addition to School of the Ozarks.
“We are thrilled to have Leah Adams Pyatt join our already strong faculty,” said Dr. Brad Dolloff, dean of School of the Ozarks. “Not only does she bring a great deal of experience in classical Christian education, but also a flourishing relationship with Christ and a love for students that will make her an outstanding mentor to the students.”
BOYS & GIRLS CLUB
Boys & Girls Club of the Ozarks awarded funding from Optimum to enhance STEM education programs (SUBMITTED TO BRANSON GLOBE)
The Boys & Girls Club of the Ozarks is proud to announce it has received a funding allocation from Optimum to support and expand STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) programming for local youth. This investment will provide Club members with increased access to hands-on learning experiences, technology resources and innovative educational opportunities that help prepare them for future academic and career success.
The funding will help strengthen STEM initiatives across the organization, empowering young people to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity and digital literacy skills in a safe and supportive environment.
Through engaging STEM activities, Club members gain hands-on experience in coding, robotics, engineering challenges, scientific exploration and other learning opportunities designed to spark curiosity, build confidence and prepare them for future careers.
“We are incredibly grateful for Optimum’s commitment to helping young people explore and excel in STEM fields,” said Stoney Hays, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of the Ozarks. “Investments like this create opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. They open doors to future careers, inspire innovation and help equip the next generation with the skills they need to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven world.”
Hays emphasized the critical role that community partners play in sustaining and growing impactful youth programs. “Support from businesses and individual donors is essential to our mission,” said Hays. “Every investment in our Club is an investment in the future of the Ozarks. We invite community leaders, local businesses and individuals to join us in creating life-changing opportunities for young people. Together, we can ensure that every child has access to the resources, mentorship and educational experiences they need to reach their full potential.”
Community members interested in supporting Boys & Girls Club of the Ozarks programs are encouraged to learn more, volunteer, or make a contribution by visiting www.bgcozarks.org or contacting the organization at 417-335-2089.
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