Carthage R-9 School District

Board of Education Press Release

July 17, 2023

The Carthage R-9 Board of Education met in regular session on Monday, July 17, 2023, 6:00 pm, at Carthage South Technical Center.  Present were Board members Jeff Jones, Bill Lasley, Niki Cloud, Ryan Collier, Nathan Terry, and Patrick Scott.  Lora Phelps was absent.

 Jeff Jones led the Pledge of Allegiance.  

The Board approved the Consent Agenda for the purpose of approving the meeting agenda, minutes of previous meeting, payment of bills, district financial report, date for tax rate hearing, award contract for employee drug and alcohol testing, adopt revised policy 0412, and 2023-2024 bus routes. Mr. Jones reported he had no update for the Carthage R-9 Foundation.  

Dr. Boyer and Dr. Huntley provided the Board information regarding the revised policies and regulations for their review and consideration for adoption at the August 21st board meeting.  

Dr. Boyer acknowledged and thanked the K.D. & M.L. Steadley Trust for their generous $2,500,000 donation to construct a baseball stadium on the Carthage High School campus.  

Dr. Boyer thanked the Board, colleagues, and members of the community for welcoming him and his family and is lucky to be a part of the Carthage School District.  

The Board met in closed session immediately following the regular meeting to discuss legal, personnel, and student matters in compliance with Section 610.021 (1), (3), and (6) of the Revised Statutes of Missouri.

In closed session the Board approved the following personnel actions:

Approved the employment of certified, support, extra duty, and substitute staff as presented contingent upon receiving a clear criminal record check from the Missouri Highway Patrol and Federal Bureau of Investigation, and a clear check of the Adult Abuse/Neglect Registry maintained by the Missouri Department of Social Services for all employees new to the district:

Certified Hire:

Burgi, Kevin: SPED Teacher – Carthage High School – New Hire

Gilion, Tema: EL Teacher – Carthage High School – New Hire

Cline, Brett: SPED Teacher – 6th Grade Center – New Hire

Huntley, Maquelle: English Teacher – Carthage High School – New Hire

Lucas, Peggy: Part Time Title I Math Teacher – Carthage Intermediate Center – Re-hire

Carter, Nicole: Process Coordinator – Carthage Junior High – Modification  

Carcamo, Amanda: Process Coordinator – Carthage High School – Modification

Ruiz, Melissa: Process Coordinator – Carthage High School – Modification

Burgi, Kevin, SPED Teacher, Carthage High School – Mr. Burgi graduated from Missouri Southern State University in 2012 with a Bachelor's Degree in General Studies. He completed his teaching certification at Missouri State University in 2016. He began his teaching career in Joplin teaching Middle School Science. He continued his career at McDonald County School District where he taught Special Education and became Assistant Principal at their High School.

Gilion, Tema, EL Teacher, Carthage High School – Ms. Gilion graduated from Western Governors University with a Bachelor of Arts in Education. She also earned a Masters of Arts Teaching from the University of Louisiana-Monroe. Her work experience includes teaching Spanish, 1st Grade Teacher, Middle School Teacher, and Principal for USD 235 school in Uniontown, KS.  

Cline, Brett, SPED Teacher, 6th Grade Center – Mr. Cline graduated from Missouri State University in 2001 with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. His work experience includes Scholarship Counselor at MSU, Student Services Coordinator at Crowder College, CTE Advisor with Crowder College, and Financial Aid Counselor with Evangel University.  

Huntley, Maquelle, English Teacher, Carthage High School – Ms. Huntley graduated from Missouri State University in 2021 with a double major in Professional and Technical Writing along with Communications. She earned a Master of Arts in Writing in 2023. Her experience includes working for MSU as a graduate instructor where she taught six sections of 200 level technical writing, an announcer for Ozarks Public Radio, and Assistant Speech and Debate Coach at Kickapoo High School.  

Lucas, Peggy, Part Time Title I Math Teacher - Ms. Lucas has been working for the Carthage School District since 1997. She started as a 3rd grade teacher, then switched to media Specialist in 2015. In 2020, she retired from full time teaching and became a substitute teacher for the district.  

Support Hire:

Johnson, Nancy: Paraprofessional – Steadley Elementary – New Hire

Hall, Samantha: Cook – 6th Grade Center – Re-Hire

Gray, Leanna: Bus Driver – Transportation – Modification

Nugent, Brittany: Cook – Steadley Elementary – Re-Hire

Gordon, Emalie: SPIRIT Teacher – 6th Grade Center – New Hire  

Extra Duty Hire:

Chavez, Cynthia: Assistant Girls Soccer Coach – Carthage High School – Modification

Burgi, Kevin: Head Baseball Coach – Carthage High School – New Hire

Burgi, Kevin: Baseball Grounds Keeper – Carthage High School – New Hire

Burgi, Kevin: Weightlifting Fall – Carthage High School – New Hire

Burgi, Kevin: Weightlifting Winter – Carthage High School – New Hire

Burgi, Kevin: Weightlifting Spring – Carthage High School – New Hire

Burgi, Kevin: Weightlifting Summer – Carthage High School – New Hire

Bridges, Drew: Assistant Baseball Coach – Carthage High School – New Hire  

Substitute Hire:

Myers, Shauna: Cook – Steadley – Modification  

Certified Transfer:

Hunter, Leslie: SPED Teacher – Columbian Elementary – Transfer

Slates, Samantha: FACS Teacher – Carthage Junior High School – Transfer

Wolfe, Broc: Social Studies Teacher – Carthage High School – Transfer

Copeland, Mackenzie: Language Arts Teacher – Carthage Junior High School – Transfer  

Slates, Samantha, FACS Teacher, Carthage Junior High - Ms. Slates graduated from Pitt State University in 2015 with a Master's in Business Administration. She has been a full time substitute for our district since 2019.    

Support Transfer:

Paul, Karina: Paraprofessional – Early Childhood – Transfer

Endicott, Michelle: Cook – Carthage Intermediate Center – Transfer

Hale, Joyce: Cook – Fairview Elementary – Transfer

Willis, Karen: Paraprofessional – Columbian Elementary – Transfer

Boyd, Sundeana: Registrar – Carthage High School – Transfer

Hughes, Stormi: Paraprofessional –  6th Grade Center – Transfer

Foster, Jason: Custodian – Steadley Elementary – Transfer

Sageser, Kensey: Route/Scheduling Coordinator – Transportation – Transfer

Kelly, Rebekah: SPIRIT Facilitator – 6th Grade Center – Transfer

Approved retirement and resignation of employment of certified, support, and substitute staff as presented.  

Certified Retirement:

Boyer, Jacque: SPED Teacher – Carthage High School – Retirement

Certified Resignation:

Burkhart, Lauren: English Teacher – Carthage High School – Resignation

Towe, Amanda: Social Studies Teacher – Carthage High School – Resignation

Support Retirement:

Burns, Clark: Bus Driver – Transportation – Retirement

Support Resignation:

Powell, Jasmine: Paraprofessional – Steadley Elementary – Resignation

Antwiler, Joshua: Resignation Router/Schedular – Transportation – Resignation

Carpino, Brenda: Secretary – Carthage High School – Resignation

Substitute Resignation:

Tolle, Bonnie: Cook – Position Eliminated – District – Resignation 

Carthage R-9 School District

Board of Education Press Release

August 21, 2023

The Carthage R-9 Board of Education met in regular session on Monday, August 21, 2023, 6:04 pm, at Carthage South Technical Center.  Present were Board members Jeff Jones, Bill Lasley, Niki Cloud, Ryan Collier, Patrick Scott, and Lora Phelps.  Nathan Terry was absent.  

Jeff Jones led the Pledge of Allegiance.  

The Board approved the Consent Agenda for the purpose of approving the meeting agenda, minutes of previous meeting, payment of bills, district financial report, approve FY23 final budget, adopt revised regulation 6180 and regulation 4505, approve district assessment plan for 2023-2024, and approve special education compliance plan.  

The MSIP 6 Standard: Operations evaluative report was presented to the board:  

• Janeane Myhre, Food Service Director, reported on staff training, utilizing distributors and local producers to procure foods of high nutritional value, and the importance of receiving free/reduced meal applications from parents.  

• Dan Hill, Maintenance Director, reported the housing for Tiger Cub Care is complete, the remodel of the transportation offices is complete, lighting upgrades for 6th grade center and Pleasant Valley are complete, the chiller for Columbian Elementary is scheduled for installation during winter break, and lead testing samples are completed and waiting for results.  

• Don Cox, Safety Coordinator, reported all safety protocols are in place for return to school, the district received $400,000 in grant money and a safety audit is under way, a third SRO officer has been hired for the 2023-2024 school year, monthly emergency drills are scheduled, and the district is applying for another safety grant opportunity.  

• Dr. Holley Goodnight, Assistant Superintendent for Business, presented on behalf of Kim Henderson, the Transportation Director. Dr. Goodnight reported the annual bus inspection by the Missouri State  Highway Patrol was completed and the district received a 96.4% score and the Exemplary School Bus Maintenance Award.  Annual driving training is conducted, new routing and trip request software have been implemented, digital cameras on buses are being updated, two vans were purchased to assist with district travel, and two buses have been added to the district's fleet.  

Mrs. Crystal Brown, Carthage R-9 Foundation Director, provided an update to the board regarding scholarships information, the major saver card campaign will take place in October, and trivia night fundraiser is scheduled for November 11, 2023.

Dr. Boyer presented administrative reports to the board with relevant information regarding the start of the school year.  

Dr. Boyer updated the board on the following:  

• First day of school for the 2023 – 2024 school year is in full swing.

• Kindergarten pictures were taken in all elementary school and will be distributed at parent teacher conferences.

• Thank you to the Administration team for everything they do for the entire district.

• Convocation was a success and appreciate your attendance.  

• Excessive heat warnings - during the extreme heat the district is doing all we can to ensure our staff and students are safe.  

• Electronic enrollment is going very well.

• ParentSquare App role out is a success.

• The Administrative team attended a law seminar regarding informative topics in education.  

The Board met in closed session immediately following the regular meeting to discuss personnel matters in compliance with Section 610.021 (3) of the Revised Statutes of Missouri. In closed session the Board approved the following personnel actions: Approved the employment of certified, support, extra duty, and substitute staff as presented contingent upon receiving a clear criminal record check from the Missouri Highway Patrol and Federal Bureau of Investigation, and a clear check of the Adult Abuse/Neglect Registry maintained by the Missouri Department of Social Services for all employees new to the district:

Certified Hire:

Bridges, Drew: 7th Grade Science Teacher – Carthage Junior High School – New Hire

Snyder, Taylor: Kindergarten Teacher – Mark Twain – New Hire

Bowman, Hailey: 2nd Grade Teacher – Columbian – New Hire

Bridges, Drew, 7th Grade Science Teacher, Carthage Junior High School – Mr. Bridges graduated from Carthage School District in 2013. In May of 2020, he graduated from Missouri Southern State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Biology. Over the last two years, Mr. Bridges has been Assistant Vice President, Residential Lender for Guaranty Bank. Between the years of 2013 and 2017, Mr. Bridges played in the New York Yankees organization. Between 2017 and 2020, he was head coach for the Midwest Nationals Premier Baseball Academy.

Snyder, Taylor, Kindergarten Teacher, Mark Twain Elementary – Ms. Snyder is a graduate of Carthage High School and will graduate from Missouri Southern State University in May of 2024. Her degree will be in Early Childhood Education. Ms. Snyder did her student teaching at the Carthage Sixth Grade Center in Fall of 2022.

Bowman, Hailey, 2nd Grade Teacher, Columbian Elementary – Ms. Bowman has plans to graduate from UTWestern Governors University in December 2023 in Elementary Education. She has been working for the Carthage School District (Fairview) as an Instructional Assistant since 2021.

Support Hire:

Sacry, Isabella: EL Paraprofessional – Mark Twain Elementary – New Hire

Baird, Jennifer: Cook – Carthage Intermediate Center – New Hire

Ballard, Eliot: Bus Driver Transportation – Modification

Gatewood, Trisha: Paraprofessional – Carthage Junior High School – New Hire

Gatewood, Trisha: Bus Driver – Transportation – New Hire

Holmes, Yvonne: Cook Transportation New Hire CIC – New Hire

Eaton, Suzanna: Paraprofessional – Carthage Junior High School – New Hire

Hall, Samantha: Cook – Carthage Junior High School Modification

Randall, Quinn: Paraprofessional – 6th Grade Center – New Hire

Virtue, Xandria: Cook – Fairview Elementary – New Hire

Sharon, Lacey: Paraprofessional – Carthage High School – New Hire

O'Hare, Hannah: Library Media Aide – Fairview Elementary – New Hire    

Extra Duty Hire:

Slates, Samantha: FCCLA Sponsor – Carthage Junior High School – Modification

Hicks, Marina: Bilingual-Writing – Fairview Elementary – Modification

Hicks, Marina: Bilingual-Speaking – Fairview Elementary – Modification

Beshore, Jeff: Teaching During Plan – Carthage High School – Modification

Morris, Brittany: Teaching During Plan – Carthage High School – Modification

Morris, Brandy: Teaching During Plan – Carthage High School – Modification

Calhoon, Diana: Teaching During Plan – Carthage High School – Modification

Maxwell, Brant: Teaching During Plan – Carthage High School – Modification

Ray, Steven: Teaching During Plan – Carthage High School – Modification

Palmer, Autumn: Teaching During Plan – Carthage High School – Modification

Barr, Darrell: Teaching During Plan – Carthage High School – Modification

Edwards, Chris: Teaching During Plan – Carthage High School – Modification

Brown, Kenneth: Teaching During Plan – Carthage High School – Modification

Frazier, Lora: Teaching During Plan – Carthage Tech Center – Modification

Riley, Amie: Teaching During Plan – Carthage Tech Center – Modification

Stark, Stacey: Teaching During Plan – Carthage Tech Center – Modification

Tullis, Julie: Teaching During Plan – Carthage Tech Center – Modification

Macy, Jordan: Teaching During Plan – Carthage Tech Center – Modification

Higgins, Shannon: Teaching During Plan – Carthage Tech Center – Modification

Kennedy, Paul: Teaching During Plan – Carthage Tech Center – Modification

Olinger, Nathan: Teaching During Plan – Carthage Tech Center – Modification

Willis, Corey: Teaching During Plan – Carthage Tech Center – Modification

Stefan, Mark: Teaching During Plan – Carthage Tech Center – Modification

Hulette, Jaren: Teaching During Plan – Carthage Tech Center – Modification

Fewin, Angela: Teaching During Plan – Carthage Tech Center – Modification

Blankenship, Trudy: Teaching During Plan – Carthage Junior High School – Modification

Trowbridge, Cindy: Teaching During Plan – Carthage Junior High School – Modification

Wilkerson, Chris: Teaching During Plan – Carthage Tech Center – Modification

Sacry, Isabella: Assistant Dance Coach – Carthage High School – New Hire

Fent, Lee Ann: FBLA-DECA Stipend – Carthage Tech Center – Modification

Stenger, Kelsey: Head Senior Class Sponsor – Carthage High School – Modification

Green, Alexandra: Assistant Junior Class Sponsor – Carthage High School – Modification

Youngworth, Melissa: High School Yearbook Assistant Sponsor – Carthage High School – Modification

Harrison, Kristen: United Way Sponsor – Carthage High School – Modification  

Substitute Hire:

Brown, Julia: Substitute – District – New Hire

Carter, Kristin: Substitute – District – New Hire

Gazaway, Calvin: Substitute – District – Re-Hire

Fraser, Charlea: Substitute – District – New Hire

Boyer, Alexander: Substitute – District – New Hire

Gilmore, Cheryl: Substitute – District – New Hire

Christie, John: Substitute – District – New Hire  

Support Transfer:

Scott, Amy: Paraprofessional – Carthage High School – Transfer Was sub in district in 2223

Wilson, Shandy: Instructional Assistant – Steadley Elementary – Transfer Was sub in district in 2223

Paul, Karina: Cook – Carthage High School – Transfer Was at CIC

Hale, Joyce: Cook – Steadley Elementary – Transfer Was at Fairview

Shaffer, Ruby: Paraprofessional – Columbian Elementary – Transfer Was sub in district in 2223

McCaw, Hilary: Nurse – Early Childhood Center – Transfer Was a sub nurse in 22-23  

Approved resignation and retirement of employment of certified, support, extra duty, and substitute staff as presented.  

Certified Resignation:

Moss, Brice: Teacher – Columbian Elementary – Resignation  

Support Retirement:

Dahlman, Douglas: Custodian – Carthage Tech Center – Retirement  

Support Resignation:

Platko, Donna: Paraprofessional – Early Childhood – Resignation

Hall, Michelle: Practical Nursing Instructor – Carthage Tech Center – Resignation

Schmidt, Eric: Custodian – Columbian – Resignation

Scavezze, Dallas: Paraprofessional – Carthage High School – Resignation

Radcliff, Glenn: Custodian – Carthage Junior High School – Resignation

Moseley, Kayley: Paraprofessional – Columbian – Resignation

Legorreta Shellsy: Paraprofessional – Carthage High School – Resignation

Bryant, Kelsey: Bus Driver – Transportation – Resignation

Bryant, Josh:Bus Driver – Transportation – Resignation

Kittrell, Casandra: Cook – Pleasant Valley – Resignation

Huffman, Jessica: Nurse – Early Childhood – Resignation

Bailey, Daryl: Bus Driver – Transportation – Termination

Scharff, Kimberly: Bus Driver – Transportation – Resignation

Flores, Cecilia: Cook – Carthage Intermediate Center – Resignation

Cardwell, Deborah: Bus Driver – Transportation – Resignation

Jones, Wayne: Bus Driver – Transportation – Resignation  

Extra Duty Resignation:

Stenger, Kelsey: JH Assistant Track – Carthage Junior High School – Resignation    

Substitute Resignation:

Schmuhl, Jessica: Substitute – District – Resignation

Fewin, Kyle: Bus Driver – Transportation – Resignation

Pirtle, Elizabeth: Substitute – District – Resignation

Wilson, Melinda: Substitute – District – Resignation

Brock, Holly: Substitute – District – Resignation

Wallain, Frances: Substitute – District – Resignation

Fewin, Caleb: IT Intern – IT Department – Resignation

Lambeth, Gabe: IT Intern – IT Department – Resignation

Lanyon, Michael: IT Intern – IT Department – Resignation

Wallace, Will: IT Intern – IT Department – Resignation

Stout, Kasie: Paraprofessional – Columbian – Resignation    

Carthage R-9 School District

Board of Education Press Release

October 16, 2023

The Carthage R-9 Board of Education met in regular session on Monday, October 16, 2023, 6:00 pm, at Columbian Elementary School.  Present were Board members Jeff Jones, Bill Lasley, Niki Cloud, Nathan Terry, Patrick Scott, and Lora Phelps.  Ryan Collier was absent.  

Columbian Elementary student Kallen Estes let the Pledge of Allegiance.  

Second grade students provided cheerful songs under the direction of vocal music teacher Mr. Colton Sprenkle.  

The Board approved the Consent Agenda for the purpose of approving the meeting agenda, minutes of previous meeting, payment of bills, district financial report, 2024 practical nursing program student handbook, and revised policies/regulations.  

Dr. Matt Huntley, Assistant Superintendent for Instruction, and Ms. Beth Hunt, Curriculum Director, presented a MSIP 6 Standard update regarding professional development.  An overview of improvement target areas one, two, and three were discussed.  

Mr. Jones provided a Carthage R-9 Foundation update. The Major Saver card campaign has kicked off and the foundation has postponed the trivia night fundraiser due to the Step Up to the Plate Baseball Stadium fundraiser campaign.  

Mr. Mark Holderbaum presented a proposal to the board regarding Carthage High School Girls Wrestling.  Current interest for girls wrestling, proposed stipends, expenses, proposed matches/tournaments, and Title IX status were discussed.

Dr. Boyer presented a Memorandum of Understanding by and between Joplin Area Habitat for Humanity (JAHH) and Carthage R-9 School District – Carthage Technical Center.  Responsibilities for JAHH and Carthage Technical Center were discussed along with information on the home that is being renovated in Carthage.  

Dr. Boyer provided the Board information regarding PowerSchool software that is used for applicant tracking.  

Dr. Goodnight and Dr. Boyer provided the Board information regarding a new bus driver plan.  Dr. Goodnight reviewed the goals of the plan, benefits package, and salary schedule for new bus drivers. Dr. Goodnight and Dr. Boyer provided the Board information regarding a current bus driver plan and benefits package.  Dr. Goodnight reviewed the goals of the plan, benefits package, and salary schedule for current bus drivers.  Dr. Goodnight asked for the board to review the current bus driver plan and consider for approval at the November 20th board meeting. Dr. Goodnight presented the 90% plan for bid specifications for the Baseball Stadium.  A formal prebid meeting and walk-through of the project is scheduled for October 26th at 10:00am at the proposed site at 2600 S. River St., Carthage, MO 64836.

Dr. Boyer updated the board on the following:  

• End of 1st quarter – October 17th.

• October 24 and 26 – Parent Teachers Conferences.

• Fall sports wrapping up and Winter sports will be starting soon.

• Baseball Stadium fundraiser is going strong and still accepting donations.

• Maple Leaf Festival is here - enjoy the numerous activities in our community along with the band festival at David Haffner Stadium.

The Board met in closed session immediately following the regular meeting to discuss personnel matters in compliance with Section 610.021 (3) of the Revised Statutes of Missouri.  In closed session the Board approved the following personnel actions:  Approved the employment of certified, support, and substitute staff as presented contingent upon receiving a clear criminal record check from the Missouri Highway Patrol and Federal Bureau of Investigation, and a clear check of the Adult Abuse/Neglect Registry maintained by the Missouri Department of Social Services for all employees new to the district:  

Certified Hire:

Darland, Norma: Spanish Teacher (Part Time) – Carthage High School – Modification

Barrett, Jessica: Practical Nursing Instructor – Tech Center-South – Transfer  

Support Hire:

Ordonez, Genesis: Sped Paraprofessional – Carthage High School – New Hire

Saragusa, Rosemarie: Bus Driver – Transportation – New Hire

Brinkhoff, Brian: Sped Paraprofessional – Carthage High School – Re-Hire

Bartosh, Joe: Home to School Liaison – Carthage High School – Modification  

Substitute Hire:  

Watson, Shayna: Substitute – District – New Hire

Dingman, Jordan: Substitute – District – New Hire

Samuelson, Brittany: Substitute – District – New Hire

Colbert, Doniqua: Substitute – District – New Hire

Anderson, Jaxsyn: Substitute – District – New Hire

Madeline, Carey: Substitute – District – New Hire

Tate, Mallory: Substitute – District – New Hire

Bourgeous, Susan: Substitute – District – New Hire

Simmons, Jason: Substitute – District – New Hire

Beaver, Judith: Substitute – District – New Hire

Torrance, Amy: Substitute – District – New Hire

Johns, Morgan: Substitute – District – New Hire

Reyes, Elder: Substitute – District – Modification  

Support Transfer:

Fraser, Charlea: Pre School Paraprofessional – Pleasant Valley Elementary – Transfer

Carter, Lucas: Maintenance (General Laborer/Apprentice) – Maintenance – Transfer

Witt, Caitlin: Sped Paraprofessional – Fairview Elementary – Transfer

Williams, Brandie: Custodian – Columbian Elementary – Transfer

Sprague, Kaleb: Custodian – Carthage Junior High School – Transfer      

Approved resignation, and employment of support staff as presented.

Support Resignation:

Kaup, Janet: Paraprofessional – Sixth Grade Center – Resignation

Reddy, Mary: Instructional Assistant – Mark Twain Elementary – Resignation

Stubbs, Megan: Paraprofessional – Carthage High School – Resignation

San Jose, Kayla: Cook – 6th Grade Center – Resignation

Benson, Rebekah: Bus Driver – Transportation – Resignation

Thompson, Michael: Bus Aide – Transportation – Resignation

Carthage R-9 School District

Board of Education Press Release

October 24, 2023

The Carthage R-9 Board of Education met in a board retreat on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, 5:07 pm, at the Carthage R-9 Administration Office. Present were Board members Jeff Jones, Bill Lasley, Niki Cloud, Ryan Collier, Patrick Scott, and Lora Phelps. Nathan Terry was absent.  

Dr. Boyer, Superintendent, provided an update on district processes and procedures.  

Dr. Boyer, Superintendent, provided a finance update to the board members.  Dr. Boyer and the board members discussed the 2023-2024 budget, revenues, expenditures, district programs, stipends, salary schedule, departments, and buildings.  

Dr. Boyer, Superintendent, presented information to build collaboration with the Carthage R-9 Foundation and achieve successful fundraising goals for the district as a whole.  

Dr. Boyer, Superintendent, and the board members reviewed school board member operations regarding working together with collective authority, governing as a team, board governing documents, school board member roles and responsibilities, board agendas, how to add items to an agenda, and the superintendent evaluation process. 

Carthage R-9 School District

Board of Education Press Release

November 20, 2023

The Carthage R-9 Board of Education met in regular session on Monday, November 20, 2023, 6:00 pm, at Fairview Elementary. Present were Board members Jeff Jones, Bill Lasley, Niki Cloud, Ryan Collier, Patrick Scott, and Lora Phelps. Nathan Terry was absent.

Fairview Elementary first grade students provided cheerful songs under the direction of vocal music teacher, Mrs. Megan Blanchard.

The Board approved the Consent Agenda for the purpose of approving the meeting agenda, minutes of previous meeting, minutes of previous board retreat, payment of bills, district financial report, amendments to FY24 budget, current bus driver salary and benefits package, student ridership count and bus routes for 2023-2024, and filing dates for the annual Board of Education election.    

Shelley Wilson, School Counselor & K-12 Counseling Department Chair, Deena Murdock, District Counseling Specialist, and Jessica McDonald, District Counseling Specialist, presented the MSIP 6 Standard: Counseling and Advisement evaluative report to the board.  An overview of target areas one and two were discussed.   Dr. Boyer, Superintendent, presented the MSIP 6 Standard: Finances evaluative report to the board.    

Mr. Jones provided a Carthage R-9 School Foundation update highlighting the success of the Major Saver card campaign and that Trivia Night will be held in February 2024 at Specialty Risk Insurance.   Dr. Boyer, Mr. Jones, Mr. Lasley, Mr. Collier, and Mrs. Phelps attended the 2023 MSBA Annual School Board Conference in Kansas City, Missouri, November 2-4, 2023.  All attendees discussed their takeaways from conference sessions.  

Rebecca Baker, KPM CPA’s, reviewed the FY 23 audit report.  Carthage R-9 was in compliance with all requirements and received an overall clean audit report with no material weaknesses.  

Dr. Huntley, Assistant Superintendent for Instruction, Jana Sawyer, Director of Language Programs, and Beth Hunt, Curriculum Director, provided information regarding the districts dual language program.  Items discussed were the goals and progress of the program, academic achievement, progress towards biliteracy, attrition rates of students and teachers, waiting lists for the program, and curriculum.  

Mr. Collier and Mr. Scott volunteered to serve on the John T. Belcher Scholarship Selection Committee.  The committee will select a nominee to represent the district in this competitive scholarship application process.  

Dr. Goodnight, Assistant Superintendent for Business, provided the Board information regarding the five bids the district received for the baseball stadium.  A decision was made to rebid the project and ask for approval in the December 18, 2023 board meeting.  

Dr. Boyer updated the Board regarding the following:  

• Thank you to the board members that were able to attend the MSBA conference and your dedication to moving the district forward.  

• The transportation department will start altering bus routes in January 2024.

• Blayne Daugherty, dual language student, in the district was able to assist a young girl that was lost by speaking in Spanish and then calling the police department.  

• The 3rd grade feast was a great event where students learned table etiquette and shared what they were thankful for.  

• Kylie Kyte at Fairview Elementary and Rebekah Kelly at CIC were both presented with the Tiger Pride Kindness Award and Alex Benbow at CIC received the McDonald’s Outstanding Educator Award.  

• Three Carthage Tiger educators were recognized at the MOSHAPE State Convention.  Jamie Newman (CIC) received the Young Professional of the Year Award, Kirk Jones (JH) received the Professional Service Honor Award, and former Superintendent Dr. Mark Baker was named Administrator of the Year.  

• Carthage High School Theatre department presented the CHS musical “Bright Star”, everyone involved did an amazing job.  

• Veterans Day assemblies were held at all buildings to honor and express our deepest gratitude for their service.  

The Board met in closed session immediately following the regular meeting to discuss personnel matters and evaluative personnel reports in compliance with Section 610.021 (3) and (13) of the Revised Statutes of Missouri. In closed session the Board approved the following personnel actions: Approved the employment of professional, certified, support, and substitute staff as presented contingent upon receiving a clear criminal record check from the Missouri Highway Patrol and Federal Bureau of Investigation, and a clear check of the Adult Abuse/Neglect Registry maintained by the Missouri Department of Social Services for all employees new to the district:

PN Staff Contract Renewals:

Linder, Mari Beth: Practical Nursing Program Coordinator – Carthage Tech Center – Re-employment for 2024

Branstetter, Jo Ellen: Practical Nursing Instructor – Carthage Tech Center – Re-employment for 2024

Barrett, Jessica: Practical Nursing Instructor – Carthage Tech Center – Re-employment for 2024

Certified Hire:

Reyes, Elder: SPED Teacher – Carthage Junior High School – New Hire

Gazaway, Calvin: SPED Teacher – 6th Grade Center – New Hire

Reyes, Elder, SPED Teacher, Carthage Junior High School – Mr. Reyes has been student teaching with our district. He will graduate from Missouri Southern State University in December of 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in Education.

Gazaway, Calvin, SPED Teacher, Sixth Grade Center – Mr. Gazaway is a retired educator.  Most recently he was a Music Teacher at Columbian Elementary and Sixth Grade Center.  

Support Hire:

Holmes, Yvonne: Cook – Carthage Intermediate Center – Modification

Jeffries, Bethany: Personal Paraprofessional – Fairview Elementary – New Hire

Berg, Darryl: Bus Driver – Transportation – New Hire

Taylor, Rebecca: Tiger Cub Care Paraprofessional – Mark Twain Elementary – New Hire

Mejia, Antonio: Custodian – Carthage High School – New Hire

Filbeck, Mary: Bus Driver – Transportation – New Hire

Funk, Michelle: School Nurse – Columbian Elementary – New Hire

Harris, Chester: Bus Driver – Transportation – New Hire

Doty, Larry: SPED Paraprofessional – 6th Grade Center – Modification

Crahan, Cayden: Assistant Bus Mechanic – Transportation – New Hire  

Substitute Hire:

Worthington, Cheryl: Substitute – District – New Hire

Doty, Larry: Substitute – District – New Hire

Manka, Donlad: Substitute – District – Modification

Gibson, Alli: Substitute – District – New Hire

Jones, Amanda: Substitute Nurse – District – New Hire

Tucker, Jimi: Substitute – District – New Hire

Bartosh, Joseph: Substitute – District – Modification

Lingengfelter, Seth: Substitute – District – New Hire  

Support Transfer:

Vonholten-Cartwright, Sheril: Personal Paraprofessional – Carthage Intermediate Center – Transfer

Wimer, Katie: Instructional Assistant – Columbian Elementary – Transfer

Staggs, Ryan: Custodian – Carthage High School – Transfer  

Approved Retirement/Resignation and Employment of Certified, Support, Substitute, and Extra Duty Staff as presented.  

Certified Retirement/Resignation:

Bogle, Jenny: Principal – Carthage Junior High School – Retirement

Lucas, Judith: SPED Teacher – Pleasant Valley Elementary – Retirement

Church, Cheryl: Art Teacher – Carthage High School – Retirement

Joyce, Michelle: SPED Teacher – Carthage Junior High School – Retirement

Marrs, Jeffrey: Machine Tech Teacher – Carthage Tech-South – Retirement

Wilkerson, Chris: PLTW Biomed Teacher – Carthage Tech-South – Retirement

Evans, Randall: Career Tech Teacher – Carthage Junior High School – Retirement

Arthur, Elizabeth: 3rd Grade Teacher – Fairview Elementary – Resignation

Cline, Brett: SPED Teacher – Sixth Grade Center – Resignation

Nichols, Elizabeth: 5th Grade Teacher – Carthage Intermediate Center – Resignation

Stilabower, Mariah: 1st Grade Teacher – Columbian Elementary – Resignation

Manley, Haley: EL Teacher – Fairview Elementary – Resignation

Mason, Miranda: 2nd Grade Teacher – Fairview Elementary – Resignation

Grizzel, Jennifer: 2nd Grade DL Teacher – Fairview Elementary – Resignation

Andrews, Evelyn: 4th Grade Teacher – Carthage Intermediate Center – Resignation

Deckard, Jasmine: 5th Grade Teacher – Carthage Intermediate Center – Resignation

Support Retirement/Resignation:

Titius, Carl: Custodian – Carthage High School – Retirement

Latzko, Jason: Head Custodian – Fairview Elementary – Resignation

Bland, Bailee: Nurse Coordinator – District – Resignation

Southard, Richard: Bus Driver – Transportation – Resignation

Bartosh, Joseph: HSE Teacher – CTC-North – Resignation

Virtue, Xandria: Cook – Fairview Elementary – Resignation

Feliciano, Carmen: District Registrar -Welcome Center – Resignation  

Substitute Resignation:

Masters, Crystal: Substitute Cook – District – Resignation

McGatha, Anna: Substitute Cook – District – Resignation

Ferris, Taylor: Substitute – District – Resignation  

Extra Duty Resignation:

Ferris, Taylor: 9th Grade Volleyball – Carthage High School – Resignation

Lingenfelter, Mark: Girls Head Tennis Coach – Carthage High School – Resignation  

Carthage R-9 School District

Board of Education Press Release

December 18, 2023

The Carthage R-9 Board of Education met in regular session on Monday, December 18, 2023, 6:00 pm, at Mark Twain Elementary. Present were Board members Jeff Jones, Bill Lasley, Niki Cloud, Ryan Collier, Nathan Terry, Patrick Scott, and Lora Phelps.  

Mark Twain Elementary students, Mika Camarillo, Simon Hatcher, Tate LeMasters, and Kitziah Escalon led the Pledge of Allegiance.  

First grade students provided cheerful songs under the direction of vocal music teacher, Mrs. Kristi Pearson.

The Board approved the Consent Agenda for the purpose of approving the meeting agenda, minutes of previous meeting, payment of bills, district financial report, amendments to FY24 budget, and tigers together back to school plan.  

Dr. Gage Tiller, Director of Carthage Technical Center, presented a MSIP 6 Standard update regarding Effective Teaching and Learning – 21st Century Success-Ready Graduates.  An overview of target areas one, two, and three were discussed with the Board.  

Jack Ryder was selected as the districts’ Missouri School Boards’ Association John T. Belcher Scholarship nominee.  Jack will compete for a regional scholarship; one regional winner will be awarded a state-wide scholarship.  

Mr. Jones provided a Carthage R-9 School Foundation update highlighting the Trivia Night fundraiser will be held February 10th at Specialty Risk Insurance at 10385 Blackberry Road, Carthage, Missouri.  

Dr. Goodnight provided the Board information regarding the districts internal business procedures manual.  Dr. Goodnight asked for the board to review the manual and consider for approval at the January 15th board meeting.  

Dr. Boyer presented the MOCAAT investment fund program to the Board.  

Dr. Huntley, Assistant Superintendent for Instruction, Jana Sawyer, Director of Language Programs, and Beth Hunt, Curriculum Director, provided the Board a dual language report.  Items discussed were dual language expenditures, MAP scores, iReady Data, and attrition of students.  

Dr. Boyer updated the Board regarding the following:  

• Thank you to the Administrators in attendance at tonight’s board meeting.  

• Congratulations to board member Lora Phelps for completion of 18.5 hours of MSBA’s Essential Certified Board Member Training.  

• DESE released the 2023 Annual Performance Report for Missouri Schools.  Carthage R-9 School District celebrates ongoing success, improvement, and growth with an overall score of 85.1%.  

• Shout out to Amy Cristy, Carthage R-9 Communications Director, for her continuous efforts in promoting the great things that are happening through our social media channels.  

• Thank you to McCune Brooks Trust for the $300,000 grant for the baseball stadium.

• The updated bus routes will start January 4th, please be patient as we roll this out.  

• Thank you to all the Carthage Tigers that have shown acts of kindness and giving back in our community.    

The Board met in closed session immediately following the regular meeting to discuss legal, personnel, and student matters, and evaluative personnel reports in compliance with Section 610.021 (1), (3), (6), and (13) of the Revised Statutes of Missouri.  In closed session the Board approved the following personnel actions:  Approved the employment of certified, support, and substitute staff as presented contingent upon receiving a clear criminal record check from the Missouri Highway Patrol and Federal Bureau of Investigation, and a clear check of the Adult Abuse/Neglect Registry maintained by the Missouri Department of Social Services for all employees new to the district:  

Support Hire:

Welton, Brent: Bus Driver – Transportation – New Hire

San Jose, Kayla: Cook – 6th Grade Center – Rehire

Arrowood, James: Plumber – Maintenance – New Hire

Wilson, James: Custodian – Carthage High School – New Hire

Sanchez Piragauta, Hector: AEL Instructor (Part Time) – Tech Center-North – Modification

Garcia, Stephanie: Bus Driver – Transportation – Modification

Lashmet, Johnathan: Grounds – Maintenance – Re-hire

Moorehouse, Raymond (Scott): Bus Driver – Transportation – New Hire

Sweet, Laramie: Sped Paraprofessional – Columbian Elementary – New Hire

Still, Ida: Bus Driver – Transportation – New Hire

Wagner, Duke: Media Lab Aide – Fairview Elementary – New Hire

Heholt, Sarah: Sped Paraprofessional – Columbian Elementary – New Hire

Carmichael, Rose Shell: Cub Care Paraprofessional – Mark Twain Elementary – New Hire

Pershall, Lindsey: Cook – Carthage Intermediate Center – New Hire

Vanslyke, Genesis: Cook – Carthage Junior High School – New Hire  

Substitute Hire:

Francisco, Mallory: Substitute – District – New Hire

Hire Wells, Christina: Substitute – Transportation – Modification

Beckett, Rachel: AEL Substitute – Tech Center-North – Modification

Murrell, Bobbi: AEL Substitute – Tech Center-North – Modification

Huffman, Emily: Substitute – District – New Hire

Gray, Justin: Substitute – Transportation – New Hire

Berlin, Maggie: Substitute – District – New Hire

Robertson, Malcolm: Substitute – Transportation – New Hire  

Certified Transfer:

Bridges, Brittany: Principal – Carthage Junior High School – Transfer  

Bridges, Brittany, Principal, Carthage Junior High School – Ms. Bridges began working for the school district back in 2008 as an English teacher and Instructional Coach. In 2019, she became the ELA Facilitator and Title 1 Director. In 2020, Ms. Bridges came back to the Junior High as the assistant principal. Ms. Bridges graduated from MSSU in 2008 with a Bachelor's degree in Secondary Education. She graduated from Arkansas State in 2012 with a Master's degree in Educational Leadership. She graduated from Arkansas State in 2021 with a Specialist's degree in Educational Leadership-Superintendency. Future plans include graduating in April 2024 with an Educational Doctorate in Educational Leadership.  

Support Transfer:  

Williamson, James: Head Custodian – Fairview Elementary – Transfer

Taylor, Rebecca: Sped Paraprofessional – Carthage High School – Transfer

Jones, Amanda: School Nurse – Carthage High School – Transfer

Lambeth, Stefani: Sped Paraprofessional – Columbian Elementary – Transfer

Galindo, Robyn: Administrative Assistant – Columbian Elementary – Transfer  

Approved Retirement/Resignation and Employment of Certified, Support, Extra Duty, and Substitute, Staff as presented.  

Certified Retirement:

Wilkerson, Joyce: Counselor – Columbian Elementary – Retirement  

Certified Resignation:

Gerstner, Sarah: Instructional Coach – Carthage Intermediate Center – Resignation

Lingenfelter, Mark: Sped Teacher – Carthage Junior High School – Resignation

Persons, Beth: EL Teacher – Steadley Elementary – Resignation

Collier, Brett: Social Studies Teacher – Carthage Junior High School – Resignation  

Support Retirement:

Hanner, Dawn: Sped Paraprofessional – Carthage Junior High School – Retirement

Crum, Karen: Head Cook – Mark Twain Elementary – Retirement  

Support Resignation:

Smith, Mayola: School Nurse – Carthage High School – Resignation

Sullivan, April: Bus Driver – Transportation – Resignation

Simmons, Olivia: Sped Paraprofessional – Columbian Elementary – Resignation

Sonntag, Aurora: Sped Paraprofessional – Carthage Intermediate Center – Resignation  

Extra Duty Resignation:

Lingenfelter, Mark: Assistant Tennis Coach – Carthage High School – Resignation  

Substitute Resignation:

Derrickson, Ian: Sub Driver – Transportation – Resignation

Roberts, Douglas: Sub Driver – Transportation – Resignation

Morton, Deborah: Sub Driver – Transportation – Resignation

Jeffers, Geoffrey: Sub Custodian – Maintenance – Resignation