What's New News Summary

Oak Grove R-VI School District Announces New Principal for Oak Grove Middle School

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Oak Grove R-VI School District Announces New Principal for Oak Grove Middle School

Oak Grove, MO — April 17, 2026 — The Oak Grove R-VI School District is proud to announce the appointment of Tim Johnson as the next Principal of Oak Grove Middle School for the 2026–2027 school year.

Johnson currently serves as the Director of Pathways at Oak Grove High School, where he leads the district’s Alternative Learning Program. In this role, he has been instrumental in supporting diverse student needs, developing innovative pathways to success, and building strong relationships with students, staff, and families. His leadership has consistently reflected a commitment to student growth, connection, and opportunity.

Superintendent Mindy Hampton shared her confidence in the appointment.
“Tim brings a student-centered mindset, strong leadership experience, and a passion for meeting students where they are. His work in alternative education has demonstrated his ability to connect with students and help them find success, making him an excellent fit for Oak Grove Middle School.”

As he transitions into his new role, Johnson is eager to continue building meaningful relationships and fostering a positive school culture during one of the most important stages of a student’s development.

“Middle school educators bridge childhood and young adulthood, shaping students’ futures during their most crazy, fun, and formative years of their educational lives,” Johnson said.

Oak Grove Middle School plays a critical role in preparing students for high school and beyond, and the district is confident Johnson’s leadership will continue to support academic growth, character development, and a strong sense of belonging for all students.

Johnson will officially assume his role as principal at the start of the 2026–2027 school year.

Panther Journalism in the Spotlight: OGHS Students Earn Feature in Local Newspaper

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMT

OGHS Sophomore Teagan Coffman and Senior Hadley Lomonte are already leaving their mark beyond the classroom.

Led by English, Journalism, Yearbook teacher and Oak Grove alumnus Ms. Addison Rainbolt, their work now appears in Focus on Oak Grove, our community's weekly newspaper. The publication reports on local news, schools, and community life, serving residents throughout eastern Jackson County and highlighting stories that define Oak Grove.

The feature spotlights Panther Times, OGHS's student newspaper. Journalism students produce each issue as they learn reporting, writing, editing, and storytelling skills. Through interviews, research, and teamwork, students build essential communication skills and share stories that resonate with their peers and the OGHS building

For these young journalists, recognition in the local newspaper means more than just a byline. It's a meaningful step into authentic journalism. The partnership between the school newsroom and the community publication demonstrates how student voices can enrich the broader Oak Grove conversation.

Panther Times continues to highlight student life, activities, and issues that affect the school community. The paper also gives students valuable experience in media, storytelling, and responsible reporting. Having their work acknowledged by a professional publication reinforces the importance of student journalism and its role in documenting the life of a school and community.

Panther Nation, support our student journalists by reading the latest edition of Panther Times online and picking up a copy of The Focus on Oak Grove newspaper at local outlets.

Read the newest February edition and previous articles here: https://oakgrove-oghs.ss10.sharpschool.com/.../panther...

Checkout their IG page @oghs_panthermediagroup https://www.instagram.com/oghs_panthermediagroup/

From the school newsroom to the local paper, Oak Grove's journalism future is bright; these students are just beginning.

Oak Grove R-VI Board of Education | February Recap

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Oak Grove R-VI Board of Education | February Recap

The Board held its February regular meeting, highlighting student and staff recognition, district planning, financial outlooks, and policy updates aligned with CSIP Priority 3.

Recognitions:

• Oak Grove FCCLA students for their achievements

• Eric Mitchell, named MOSPARA New Professional of the Year

Key Discussion Topics:

• Girls Flag Football as a 2-year pilot club

• Construction progress & Pay App #10

• Financial outlook tied to Jackson County tax credits

• Board vacancy process

• Legislative updates impacting public education

Action Items Approved:

• Food Service Bid (2026–2031)

• Budget Revision #1

• MSBA 2025E policy updates

Next Meeting: March 11, 2026

Watch the full meeting online:

https://www.youtube.com/live/C3MhLrdKYCE?si=GO4hEIRLXoHZCQxY

Read meeting agenda documents: https://www.oakgrove.k12.mo.us/board.../agendas_and_minutes

No Phones – Just Moments: What Missouri Senate Bill 68 Means for Oak Grove Schools

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT

No Phones – Just Moments: What Missouri Senate Bill 68 Means for Oak Grove Schools

Starting with the 2025–2026 school year, a new Missouri law—Senate Bill 68 (SB 68)—goes into effect across all K–12 public schools. The law bans student use of personal electronic communication devices during the school day.

For Oak Grove families, this won’t feel like a big change—we’ve already had a no-cellphone policy in place for years. Still, this new law makes it official across the state, and it’s worth reviewing what it means for students, parents, and staff.

🔒 What the Law Says

Ban on Devices: Students cannot use or display personal devices (cell phones, smartwatches with messaging/call features, tablets, AirPods, Bluetooth headphones, etc.) during the school day.
Definition: Any portable device used to initiate, receive, store, or view communication, information, images, or data electronically.
When It Applies: From the first bell to dismissal—covering class time, lunch, breaks, passing periods, and study hall.
School-Provided Technology: Students will still receive a district-issued Google Chromebook for academic use.

🏫 What Districts Must Do

Written Policy: Each school district must adopt a formal policy prohibiting student use of these devices.
Enforcement Plan: The policy must outline how the rule will be communicated and enforced.
Consistency Across the State: No exceptions for “phone zones” or “use at lunch”—it’s an all-day restriction.

At Oak Grove, this is nothing new. We’ve already led the way with our “no phones” expectations.

⚖️ Why This Matters

Missouri lawmakers cited several reasons for this statewide law:

📚 Less distraction from learning
🛡️ Reduced cyberbullying and social media drama during the school day
💬 Improved mental health by limiting constant device use
🤝 More face-to-face connections between students and staff

In short, it’s about building a better school culture—focused on learning, relationships, and creating memories together.

📱 Parent & Community FAQ

1. What is Senate Bill 68?
A Missouri law banning personal electronic device use in all public K–12 schools beginning with the 2025–2026 school year.

2. What devices are included?
Cell phones, smartwatches with messaging/call features, tablets/iPads, AirPods/Bluetooth headphones, and other personal electronic communication tools.

3. When can students use their devices?
Not during the school day. Devices must be powered off and stored away from the first bell until dismissal.

4. Why was this law passed?
To reduce distractions, prevent cyberbullying, protect mental health, and encourage face-to-face interaction.

5. How do I reach my child during the school day?
Call the school office. Staff will deliver your message or arrange for your child to call you from a school phone.

6. Can students use phones in emergencies?
Staff will make sure students can contact families in emergencies. Students should not use personal devices unless directed by staff.

7. How will this be enforced?
Each district has a policy. At Oak Grove, violations will follow a progressive discipline process. Devices should be stored in a locker, backpack, or another secure spot.

8. Are there exceptions?
Yes. Students with documented medical needs or IEP/504 plans that require device use will be allowed accommodations.

9. Does this apply to teachers and staff?
No. Staff may continue to use devices for professional and instructional purposes.

10. How can families support this?

Talk with your child about the new law and why it exists
Encourage leaving devices at home or powering them off in their backpack
Reinforce that school is for learning, relationships, and safety

Here at Oak Grove, we’ve always believed in “No Phones – Just Moments.” With SB 68 now a state law, every Missouri student will have the chance to unplug and focus on what really matters—learning, friendships, and memories that last a lifetime.

Let’s make 2025–2026 the best year yet by building a school environment free from distractions and full of connection.

📘 For more details, check your student handbook for building-specific policies

Understanding the August 5, 2025 Ballot Language

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, August 5, 2025, voters residing within the Oak Grove R-VI School District will see a proposal on the ballot that directly impacts how the district allocates its existing financial resources. While the ballot language may appear complex, this post provides a clear explanation of what’s being proposed and how it may affect district operations.

What’s on the Ballot

The proposal asks voters to approve a $0.70 levy transfer, which would allow the district to reallocate funds from the Debt Service Fund (Fund 3) to the Operating Fund (Fund 1). This transfer would not result in a change to the total tax rate.

Official Ballot Language:

Shall the Oak Grove R-VI School District of Jackson County, Missouri be authorized to increase the operating tax levy ceiling to $3.6061 per $100 of assessed valuation in tax year 2025 for general operating expenses of the District, including without limitation increasing compensation to attract and retain quality teachers and staff, to enhance district technology and STEM (science technology, engineering, and mathematics) programs and enhance school safety. If this question is approved, the operating tax levy of the District is estimated to increase by $0.70 per $100 of assessed valuation, and the District expects to make a corresponding reduction to its debt service tax levy of $0.70 per $100 of assessed valuation. Approval of this question would result in no increase to the estimated overall tax levy.

What This Means

If approved, this measure would provide the district with increased flexibility to use existing revenue for operational needs, without raising the total tax rate for district residents.

The proposed change would shift $0.70 per $100 of assessed valuation:

From Fund 3 (Debt Service) – used exclusively for repaying past bond projects
To Fund 1 (Operating) – used to support staff salaries, instructional programs, student services, and daily operations

This transfer enables the district to address current financial needs, including:

Retaining and recruiting quality staff
Enhancing technology and STEM education
Improving school safety measures

All current bond obligations would continue to be paid in full under this proposal.

Fund Overview

Fund 3 – Debt Service: Restricted to repaying voter-approved bond debt
Fund 1 – Operating Fund: Supports day-to-day school operations, including compensation, classroom programs, and essential services

Why This Matters

The Oak Grove R-VI School District now receives less than 40 percent of its funding from state sources—a significant decline from previous years. Local funding has become more important than ever to ensure competitive compensation for staff, sustain programs, and meet rising operational demands. The proposed levy transfer allows the district to respond to these needs without increasing the overall tax burden on the community.

Election Day Details

Tuesday, August 5, 2025
Polling places will be open for all eligible voters residing within the Oak Grove R-VI School District.

For additional details, frequently asked questions, and updates, please visit the 2025 Levy Transfer Information Page:
https://www.oakgrove.k12.mo.us/district_information/2025_no_tax_rate_increase_levy_transfer

Back-to-School Supply Lists Are Here!

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT

The countdown to a brand-new school year has officially begun, and Oak Grove R-VI School Distirct is helping families get a head start! Back-to-school supply lists for the 2025–2026 school year are now available for students in Kindergarten through 8th grade.

From crayons and composition notebooks to calculators and colored pencils, these lists are designed to make sure every student is prepared to learn and succeed from day one. Whether you’re a first-time Kindergarten parent or a seasoned middle school shopper, you can find your child’s list quickly and easily online.

📌 View the full list of supply needs here: https://www.oakgrove.k12.mo.us/district_information/enrollment_information/school_supply_lists

Beat the rush, plan ahead, and set your student up for success this school year. Let’s make 2025–2026 the best year yet!

Panther Athletics: 2025–2026 Sponsorship Program

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Oak Grove Athletics is proud to launch our 2025–2026 Panther Athletic Sponsorship Program—an exciting opportunity for local businesses to partner with our school community while gaining valuable exposure both in-person and online.

Whether it's a banner at Panther Stadium, a digital ad on our HUDL Fan Page, or a shoutout during Friday night lights, your sponsorship helps fund vital resources for all our student-athletes while putting your brand in front of thousands of fans, families, and college recruiters.

Here are just a few benefits of becoming a Panther sponsor:

High-Impact Brand Exposure

Your business will be seen at varsity games through video board ads, stadium banners, PA announcements, and printed programs.

Year-Round Digital Reach

Sponsors are featured on our HUDL Fan Page and livestreams—connecting with audiences long after the final whistle.

Exclusive Partner Perks

Enjoy season passes, OG gear, and early access to future advertising opportunities—all while being recognized as a key supporter of our schools.

Student-Athlete Support

Most importantly, your sponsorship helps ensure every Oak Grove athlete has the tools they need to grow, compete, and succeed.

Sponsorship opportunities are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. To learn more or reserve your spot, contact Athletic Director Ryan Schartz at rschartz@ogr6.org or call 816-690-4152 x1603.

Together, we can build a stronger future for Panther Athletics—on the field and in our community.