Tri-Lakes Education News
BRANSON SCHOOLS
Branson High School Senior earns perfect 36 on ACT
(SUBMITTED)
Branson High School senior Sydney Patrick has earned a perfect composite score of 36 after taking the June 2026 ACT.
Unlike an ACT superscore, which combines a student’s highest section scores from multiple test dates, a composite score of 36 reflects a perfect score across all four ACT sections from one testing session.
Patrick’s achievement marks the third perfect ACT score earned by a Branson High School student in less than a year. Branson High School graduates Austin Matthews and Isaac Lamoreaux each earned perfect ACT superscores of 36 during the 2025-26 school year.
Dixie Bailey, Branson High School senior counselor, said the achievement is a remarkable reflection of Patrick’s preparation and the academic talent of Branson High School students.
“We have some incredibly talented students and amazing teachers,” Bailey said. “To have three students earn perfect ACT scores in less than a calendar year is truly remarkable. That just doesn’t happen very often, and we are so proud of Sydney and all she has accomplished.”
“I knew I had made progress with each test, but earning a perfect 36 was one of the most validating experiences of the process,” Patrick said. “I put a lot of time and focus into strengthening my math skills before the June test, so seeing that hard work pay off was incredibly rewarding. This score has also given me more options as I look ahead to college, both financially and competitively.”
Patrick plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology and hopes to eventually earn a Ph.D. to pursue a career in research or consulting.
Beyond the classroom: Branson High School opens food pantry (SUBMITTED BY MINDY HONEY)
Opening a food pantry inside Branson High School had been one of Principal Dr. Sara Strohm’s biggest goals. This summer, that vision became a reality.
Located on the lower level of the high school, The Harbor is a food pantry equipped with a commercial freezer, refrigerator and shelves. The pantry, stocked with essentials such as frozen chicken, ground meat, milk, eggs, cheese, pasta, cereal and other staple items, is made possible through Together for Kids, a partnership between the Silver Dollar City Foundation and Care to Learn, and managed by the Branson Care to Learn Chapter.
“We have a lot of kids and families who are struggling,” Strohm said. “If this is what helps get kids to school, then it’s perfect.”
Students can access The Harbor by speaking with any teacher or staff member. Staff can quickly connect students with the pantry which reduces barriers and any possible delays in getting the students what they need. Strohm knows, however, many students may be reluctant to ask for help.
Shortly after the school year began, a conversation with a student revealed the student’s family was facing financial hardship, which was weighing heavy on the student. Strohm took the student to The Harbor, where the student filled a bag with groceries and left knowing she could provide dinner for her family.
“It has already been a powerful tool,” Strohm said.
In addition to food, the pantry is stocked with paper products and school supplies.
“This meets basic needs,” she said, adding that there are no income verification guidelines and no requirements on the students to earn what they receive in the pantry. “We have a lot of students who simply don’t have what they need, and if we can lift some of that burden and ensure they have food to eat or the school supplies they need to be successful, then that is what we are going to do.”
Looking ahead, Strohm plans to open the pantry to families twice a week during evening hours, as well as during parent-teacher conferences and select home games.
The resource will also serve families throughout the district. When staff members at other Branson schools identify a need, they can coordinate with the high school to provide food assistance. Thanks to student groups like JROTC, Strohm has plenty of help keeping the shelves stocked.
Care to Learn is a nonprofit dedicated to partnering with 60-plus Missouri school districts and community members to meet children’s emergent health, hunger and hygiene needs so they can succeed in school.
Founded in 1996, the Silver Dollar City Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Silver Dollar City Parks and Resorts. The Foundation works through local schools to help children and families in our community.
Branson prepares for Homecoming Week with many events (BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer)
The Branson Pirates are gearing up for one the most exciting events of the year - Homecoming. The Pirates will take on the Parkview Vikings in this year’s Homecoming football game on Friday, October 2.
In preparation for the big game, Branson Public Schools will celebrate Homecoming Week September 29 through October 2, with a variety of fun activities.
Branson’s Spirit Week will begin on Tuesday, September 29, and run through Friday, October 2. This year’s theme is Pirates Assemble, and students and staff throughout the district are encouraged to participate in four unique Spirit days.
Tuesday, September 29, is Groot Day, so dress in camo. Wednesday, September 30, is Captain America Day, where you are encouraged to wear USA attire. On Thursday, October 1, you are reminded to wear strange socks, clothing and hair for Dr. Strange Day; and Friday, October 2, is Infinity Stone Day, where students and staff are invited to wear their favorite Stone color.
A parade and pep rally is set for Wednesday, September 30, at the Branson Landing. Branson High School’s sports teams, cheerleaders, coaches, marching band and Homecoming candidates will gather at the north end of the Landing, near Belk’s, and make their way through the Landing to the fountains, where the pep rally will be held. The parade begins at 8 p.m., with the pep rally to follow. This is a free event and the public is invited to attend.
On Friday, October 2, the activities begin at 6:30 p.m., with the crowning of the 2026-27 Homecoming Queen, prior to the game. The big game gets underway at 7 p.m. at Pirate Stadium. The community is invited to cheer on the Branson Pirates during the Homecoming celebration. The Pirates also invite you to Help Tackle Hunger at Homecoming by bringing a nonperishable food item or loose change to help stock the BHS Food Pantry.
COLLEGE OF THE OZARKS
College of the Ozarks welcomes new faculty for fall 2026 semester (SUBMITTED)
College of the Ozarks is excited to welcome 12 new faculty members to campus at the start of the 2026-2027 academic year.
Chris Boyett, instructor of business: B.S., College of the Ozarks, 1986; M.B.A., Texas Christian University, 1990
Dr. Norman Crumpacker, associate professor of business: B.S. North Carolina State University, 1992; M.S. North Carolina State University, 1994; M.B.A. Campbell University, 1997; B.A. North Carolina Wesleyan College, 1999; Ph.D. University of Sarasota, 2005
In-Ae Ha, visiting professor of music: B.M., Korea National University of Arts, 2018; M.A., Korea National University of Arts, 2021; M.M., University of Michigan, 2023; D.M.A., University of Michigan, current
Dr. Erica Hopkins, assistant professor of mathematics: B.S., Saint Mary’s College of California, 2016; M.S., University of Nebraska, 2018; Ph.D., University of Nebraska, 2021
Dr. Joshua Ighalo, assistant professor of engineering: B.Eng., University of Benin, 2015; M.Eng., University of Ilorin, 2020; Ph.D., Kansas State University, 2026
Josh Mawhorr, instructor of physical education and head men’s basketball coach: B.S., Business Management, 2016; M.Ed., Baylor University, 2026
Dr. Coyle Neal, associate professor of public service: B.S., University of Wyoming, 2005; M.A., Catholic University of America, 2007; Ph.D., Catholic University of America, 2012
Cody Pentecost, assistant professor of physical education and head baseball coach: B.S., College of the Ozarks, 2015; M.S., Missouri Baptist University, 2021
Dr. Laura Rodseth, assistant professor of nursing: A.D.N., Belleville Area College, 1987; B.S.N., University of Phoenix, 1997; M.B.A., University of Phoenix, 2010; D.N.P., Point Loma Nazarene University, 2022
1st Lt. Garrett Scott, instructor of military science: B.S. College of the Ozarks, 2023
Dr. Elsy Shuford, assistant professor of biology: DDS, Central University of Venezuela School of Dentistry, 2000; Diploma, Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale, 2002; MASLA, Missouri State University, 2018
Dr. Paul Uyen, assistant professor of biblical & theological studies: B.A., Moody Bible Institute, 2007; M.A., Wheaton College, 2009; M.A., Wheaton College, 2012; Ph.D., Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, 2022
College of the Ozarks hosts 19th Annual White Coat Ceremony (SUBMITTED)
The Armstrong McDonald School of Nursing (AMSON) at College of the Ozarks held its 19th annual White Coat Ceremony on Tuesday, Sept. 1. Nineteen members of the class of 2028 were coated.
Each student was coated by a senior nursing major from the class of 2027. After the students were coated, they were led in the recitation of the Nightingale Pledge. The seniors then prayed a blessing over the junior nursing students.
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) and the Arnold P. Gold Foundation have collaborated to provide support and technical assistance to more than 450 schools of nursing in 50 states to offer ceremonies designed to inspire a commitment to provide compassionate, patient-centered care among students entering the nursing profession. More information can be found on the Arnold P. Gold Foundation website https://www.gold-foundation.org/.
CRANE SCHOOLS
Crane students recognized as August Students of the Month
Although students at Crane R-III Schools had only one week of classes during the month of August, the short start to the school year was enough to see students demonstrating leadership, kindness and a positive attitude.
Crane R-III recently recognized its August Students of the Month for the junior high and high school, honoring senior Ellie and eighth-grader A.J. for the positive examples they have already set for their classmates.
School officials noted that the beginning of a new school year can bring excitement, challenges and plenty of adjustments for students. Even with only a few days in the classroom, Ellie and A.J. stood out through their willingness to step up and help others.
Ellie was recognized for her leadership and dedication to student activities. According to the teacher who nominated her, she has already taken an active role in student council and has helped begin planning for the year ahead.
“Ellie has kicked off the year by taking a commanding role in student council and has done a terrific job with organizing and planning our fundraising, upcoming meetings and decor already,” the nominating teacher shared.
Her contributions extend beyond her involvement in student council. The teacher also praised Ellie for the character she demonstrates in her everyday interactions with others.
“On top of this, she is a kind hearted and hardworking young lady and student,” the teacher added.
Eighth-grader A.J. was also recognized for demonstrating the importance of kindness, particularly toward a new student beginning their first day at Crane.
According to her nominating teacher, A.J. noticed a new peer who needed assistance and took the time to make sure she felt more comfortable navigating the school.
“She demonstrated kindness by helping a new peer find her way around school on the first day,” the teacher shared.
Simple acts of kindness can make a significant difference for students, especially those who are entering a new school and may be unfamiliar with the building, teachers and routines. A.J.'s willingness to lend a helping hand provided a welcoming start for her new peer.
The recognition of Ellie and A.J. highlights the many ways students can make a difference within their school community. Leadership does not always happen through large accomplishments, and kindness does not require a special occasion. Both students demonstrated qualities that can help set a positive tone for the school year.
“It was a good first week!” school officials said, thanking all students for their efforts. “Thank you to all of our students for a great start!”
GALENA SCHOOLS
Galena FFA members kick off school year with team-building night
The Galena FFA kicked off the new school year with an evening of fun, fellowship and team building as 13 members attended the Area 12 Skate Party.
The event provided Galena FFA members with an opportunity to step away from the classroom and spend time together in a relaxed and enjoyable setting. While skating offered plenty of entertainment, the evening was also about building relationships and strengthening the sense of teamwork that is an important part of any successful FFA chapter.
Activities such as the Area 12 Skate Party allow students to get to know one another, welcome new members and create friendships that can carry into the many activities and competitions throughout the school year. Spending time together outside of regular meetings and school activities can help members develop stronger connections and become more comfortable working as a team.
For the 13 Galena FFA members who attended, the evening was a positive way to begin another year of FFA experiences. From chapter projects and leadership opportunities to community involvement and agricultural education, members will have plenty of opportunities to work together in the months ahead.
The Galena FFA shared that the skate party is “always a great way to kick off the school year,” and the evening provided just that—a fun start to a new year filled with opportunities to learn, lead and grow together.
KIRBYVILLE SCHOOLS
Branson-Hollister Lions Club donates funds to Kirbyville School
Students at Kirbyville School will receive help from a generous donation to help cover needs accumulated throughout the school year.
The Branson-Hollister Lions Club recently donated $2,000 to the school district.
Kirbyville Superintendent Tony Warstadt told the Branson Globe the funds will help students in many ways this year. "We're so grateful to the Branson-Hollister Lions Club for their generous donation. These funds will be used for any student needs that arise during the year throughout the district,” Warstadt said. “In the past, similar funds have gone toward meeting needs for kids including unpaid lunch bills, glasses, shoes, coats, other clothing, hygiene needs and really anything that staff recognize as a need as we look to support our students.”
Warstadt, who began his tenure as Superintendent on July 1 of this year, explained how the community partnerships are important to schools, especially small schools in the area. “In my short time here, it has been remarkable to witness how much this community supports its schools, it really strengthens our staff and drives us to give our very best when the community is so generous,” Warstadt said. “We're so thankful for partners like the Lions Club who invest in our kids and our future."
REEDS SPRING SCHOOLS
Reeds Spring Homecoming scheduled for September 25
SUBMITTED TO BRANSON GLOBE
Reeds Spring Schools will celebrate Homecoming on Friday, September 25. The public is invited to attend the parade, the crowning of the king and queen, and the football game.
The parade will begin at 2:10 p.m. at Reeds Spring Elementary School. The route goes past the baseball and softball fields, then past Reeds Spring Middle School, and ends at Reeds Spring High School.
Parents and community members are encouraged to park in the gravel lot near the baseball and softball fields.The king and queen announcement will occur around 6:30 p.m. The football game against Forsyth begins at 7:00.
Reeds Spring Freshman wins cross country race
SUBMITTED TO BRANSON GLOBE
At the Carthage Invitational, Reeds Spring High School freshman Anna Ross won the girls' race. Her sister, Claire Ross, finished 27th. For the boys, RJ Clouse finished 17 and Dane Thierbach was 29th. The team finished seventh overall.
Girls Golf At the Marshfield Invitational, Reeds Spring’s Saylor Johnson placed 9th out of 79 golfers. The Lady Wolves placed fourth as a team.
Football The Wolves lost to Springfield Catholic, 42-0. The JV team lost to Marshfield 28-16.
Girls Tennis The Lady Wolves lost all three matches, falling to Lamar, Branson and Forsyth.
Volleyball The RSHS volleyball team lost to Blue Eye 3-1.
Choir Fifteen members of the Reeds Spring High School Chamber Choir performed in Missouri State University’s Invitational Honor Choir. This event involved more than 200 singers from 24 schools.Choir Director Hannah Martin
said, "This is a larger and more advanced choir than these students have experienced before. It allowed them to rehearse with collegiate-level directors, experience a college campus, and start thinking about how music can play a role in their future. We are so proud of how these students carried themselves and performed throughout the day!"
TABLE ROCK CAREER CENTER
Branson Bank awards grant to Table Rock Career Center (SUBMITTED)
Community partners can support students through their educational journeys. The Table Rock Career Center has a great partnership with Branson Bank, which recently awarded the technical and career school a $20,000 grant.
Table Rock Career Center serves students from school districts throughout Stone and Taney counties, the same communities Branson Bank serves. The career center equips students with valuable technical skills, certifications and hands-on training that prepare them for successful careers, whether they enter the workforce immediately after graduation or continue their education.
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