School officials at New Franklin R-1 Schools are preparing for the opening of the 2023-2024 school year. The first day of classes for all students will be Tuesday, August 22, 2023, with elementary students reporting to their respective classrooms. Middle and high school students report to their first-hour classes.

Before the school year begins, parents should examine the health needs of their children. The school nurse will be available during the elementary open house to discuss any special health needs of your child(ren). Parents will be required to sign a consent form for any child who will be taking medication during school hours. We will also require a physician’s authorization form which can be picked up that night.

All children must be up-to-date on their immunizations by the time school begins. It is mandatory that all students be in compliance with the state law before attending school. If you have questions concerning what immunizations are needed for your child, a copy of the Missouri School Immunization Requirements for 2023-2024 is available in the nurse’s office. A DT booster is required every 10 years. For most children, this is approximately at age 15 or 16. Any immunization received during the summer should be reported to the school nurse, so the child’s school record will be complete. The school, in conjunction with the Howard County Health Office, will review each child’s record and contact parents of any deficiencies. If you have any questions concerning your child’s immunizations, please call the school nurse at (660) 848-2231.

Bus routes will basically remain the same. In the morning, buses will deliver students to school by 7:45 a.m., and deliveries home will begin at 3 p.m. All students are expected to follow the bus rules and obey their bus drivers. Questions concerning the bus routes may be directed to Eric Chaney at (660) 848-2112.

The district superintendent is Mr. Benji Dorson. Teachers and staff new to the district and/or positions include:

Mrs. Brandy Lembke - Kindergarten

Mr. Clint Poulsen - HS SPED

Mrs. Angie Mateu - Second Grade

Mr. Parker Gross - Social Studies

Mrs. Taylor Barrett - Third Grade

Mr. Hunter Mehler - High School P.E.

Mrs. Kaitlan Nicholson - Second Grade

Mr. Cory Nicholson - Elem/MS P.E.

Mrs. Courtney Shipp - Fourth Grade

Ms. Amber Bill - Elem/HS Art

Ms. Morgan Jennings - Elem/MS Music & Choir

Ms. Tracie Huffman - Elem Counselor

Mrs. Kaycee Quenette - Fifth Grade

Mrs. Stacy McGowan - Third Grade

Mrs. Roberta Albertson - Title I teacher

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL INFORMATION:

Dawn Shipp is the elementary principal. Her office is located through the main entrance double doors. The elementary school counselor is Tracie Huffman, and the elementary secretary is Michelle Baker.

Parents of Elementary Students who are NEW TO THE DISTRICT: Please stop by the elementary office as soon as possible any time Monday-Friday between the hours of 8 a.m. and 3p.m. Parents are asked to bring the child’s birth certificate, social security card, along with proof of immunizations and proof of residency in the school district. This does NOT apply to children who participated in our kindergarten screening which was held last spring.

Kindergarten students must have been five years of age before August 1, 2023. Students who have not yet enrolled should contact the elementary principal’s office at (660) 848-2112 as soon as possible. You will need to bring the same documents for enrollment as listed above.

There will be an Elementary Open House on Friday, August 18, from 4-6 p.m. Plan to come by the school that evening to meet your child’s teacher. School supply lists can be found on the school’s web page. Those students who already have their school supplies may bring them that evening if you prefer. It may help to have that done prior to the first day of school. You may also make payment to your child’s lunch account at the Open House if you wish.

Parents, you may also want to bring your camera to Open House as we will be set up for a free “Back to School” photo opportunity, sponsored by the PTO.