Agenda posted for Carthage R-9 Board of Education meeting

 

Webb City R-7 Board accepts resignations of three teachers

During a short meeting Tuesday, the Webb City R-7 Board of Education accepted the resignations of three teachers.

Andrew Doennig, business teacher, baseball coach

Amy Doennig, high school math

Sierra Jacques, third grade teacher at Mark Twain Elementary School.

Missouri State Board of Education seeking to increase its authority

By Annelise Hanshaw

Missouri Independent

Recently appointed members of the Missouri State Board of Education’s probed the board’s power at its annual retreat Tuesday, repeating a discussion from last year’s workshop but with a new tone.

Under new leadership, the board is seeing how far its authority reaches, intending to test it through rulemaking.

“I do not think there’s a person at this table that wants to hurt a school in a negative way, but we do want to impact them,” board president Brooks Miller said. “It’s all about the child and making sure they are well-educated.”

State law sets up the board as a guiding force for the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Commissioner of Education. The department’s regulations state the board is responsible for “policymaking and general oversight of public education.”

Members are appointed by the governor and confirmed by the state Senate, and there is no requirement for board members to have a background in education. Statute bars members from “being connected as an official or employee” to any K-12 school or higher education institution. Board members oftentimes enter the role with limited knowledge of the department’s functions.

Former board member Pamela Westbrooks-Hodge’s term ended earlier this month and all but one member have been appointed by Gov. Mike Kehoe since he took office last year. And these new members seem eager to break the status quo.

Former education commissioner Karla Eslinger retired in May, and the board’s previous president Mary Schrag stepped down June 2 after serving one year on an expired term. As the board’s two leaders, they reigned in discussion at times when new board members proposed more radical changes.

Interim commissioner of education Stacey Preis has a history working in the department and in education policy positions. Tuesday, she explained department norms and helped steer the board away from some ideas, like lowering the threshold to remove school districts’ accreditation, but allowed for the board to share its thoughts.

One of the discussions centered around the board’s ability to make rules — which isn’t entirely clear.

Last year, board member Mike Matousek from Kansas City asked how the board could initiate the rulemaking process and was largely shut down. Eslinger told him that the board doesn’t write regulations on its own.

The department’s chief legal counsel at the time Sarah Madden said the department can only create rules where they have legislative authority, adding “it is a pretty narrow lane.”

Tuesday, the board was interested in finding where it has leeway to create a regulation.

“In my opinion, the board has rulemaking authority unless it is preempted by federal or state law,” Matousek said. “I think the board in general has very broad authority to do what it wants.”

Meaghan Forck, the department’s newly hired chief legal counsel, said she “did not disagree overall,” but it relies on what permission state law gives.

“We do have a pretty broad rulemaking authority, but there is some temperance there,” she said.

Other proposals discussed during the retreat included changes to the way the board presents its legislative priorities. Matousek said the current model looks more like “position statements.” He’d like to instead propose specific changes to state law, like an idea that came up in its April meeting that would give the board authority to deny charter school applications if members find the proposal fiscally unsound for state funding.

“It doesn’t have to be 20 or 30 issues to start,” he said. “It can be two or three.”

Last year, the board formed committees to spearhead tasks like forming a strategic plan. The committees, made of four or fewer board members, allow them to discuss issues without having to meet publicly.

The board talked about focusing more on committees in the months ahead, allowing members to look at issues in greater detail. One such group looks at the board’s legislative priorities, and another is analyzing the department’s budget.

The board also formed a new committee intended to boost student outcomes and look at low-performance schools.

“We want to make sure that schools have the tools and everybody has what they need to improve,” said Jon Otto, a board member from Kansas City.

He suggested the legislative priorities committee work with lawmakers to enumerate the board’s authority.

“I think if we want to really make change,” Otto said, “we are going to have to roll our sleeves up and become a working board.”

Missouri Independent is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Missouri Independent maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Jason Hancock for questions: info@missouriindependent.com.

Remembering the Lamar Catcher in the Rye controversy

Today is the 75th anniversary of the publication of J. D. Salinger's controversial novel Catcher in the Rye.

I've never read the book and haven't really had any inclination to do so, but in December 1986 when I was editor of the Lamar Democrat, the book, already on the shelves at that time for 35 years, became the center of a controversy that split the Lamar community.

The book was available in the Lamar High School library at that time. I don't know how long it had been there. That's a question that should have been asked, but for some reason I never thought of asking it.

I never was able to quite found out how the situation blew up, but apparently it happened after a parent glanced through the book after a student checked it out and couldn't believe the language being used by the novel's main character Holden Caulfield.

Since my journalism philosophy has always been "nothing succeeds like excess," page one of the next Democrat was completely devoted to Catcher in the Rye.

The controversy came at an opportune time for the newspaper, just a few weeks after we were able to put spot color on our pages for the first time, so we had an illustration of the Catcher in the Rye book, similar to the picture that accompanies this post, on the top left hand corner of page one, done in bright red.

Five articles were placed on page one, two advocating for the removal of the book, two defending it and my article describing the discussion on the subject that took place at the Lamar R-1 Board of Education meeting.

Following that discussion, the board reached a compromise. The book remained in the library. Students could check it out, but they had to ask for it. It was not on the shelf.

It wasn't much of a compromise for those who were arguing against censorship and I always thought it was kind of stamping a scarlet letter (another classic I haven't read) on anyone who had to ask the librarian if they could check out that book.

A couple of students told me later that the first person to ask the librarian for The Catcher in the Rye was the son of a board member who advocated forcefully for the book's removal.

He survived the experience and from all evidence his mind wasn't warped.

 

Goodman woman charged after allegedly sharing photo of CJ man's penis without his consent

The Jasper County Prosecuting Attorney's office charged a Goodman woman with consensual dissemination of private sexual images, a felony, after she allegedly texted photos of a Carl Junction man's penis without his consent.

An arrest warrant was issued for Taina Dawn Lawson (DOB 1981) with bond set at $2,500 cash or surety.

According to the probable cause statement, Lawson texted photos of the man's penis to another woman, accusing the woman of having sex with him.

The man identified the penis in the photos as his own and said he sent them to Lawson while they were dating "and {he} expected her to keep the pictures to herself."

The case was investigated by the Jasper County Sheriff's Office.

Public Service Commission OKs Liberty rate increase with conditions

(From Missouri Public Service Commission)

Today, the Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC) issued an Order allowing tariffs related to Empire District Electric Company d/b/a Liberty’s (Liberty) electric rate increase request to go into effect as of August 3, 2026, with the requirement of ongoing reporting to the Commission every three months.

In a previous Order on January 14, 2026, the Commission accepted terms of Agreements in the rate case which established specific billing and customer service metrics that Empire was required to meet prior to receiving the opportunity to implement changes to customer rates through its requested compliance tariffs. The Commission stated that the increase would begin only after the Commission’s approval of metrics, reviewed by Commission Staff, showing that the Company has met the required metrics for a period of three consecutive months. 

The Commission held an on-the-record hearing regarding the compliance tariffs on July 8, 2026, where it heard testimony and asked detailed questions of representatives of the parties in the case.

Based on testimony provided in the on-the-record meeting, the PSC Staff’s report, Liberty’s response, and related filings, the Commission found that Liberty has satisfactorily met the customer service and billing metrics with over 99% compliance.

“Staff did an exhaustive review of Liberty’s billing and customer service for the months of January, February and March and came up with 7-10 instances out of 466,000 bills issued, nearly half a million bills, where Staff alleged Liberty did not meet the agreed upon metrics. This is a level of improvement that I believe Liberty should be commended for, and quite frankly, was one that I wasn’t sure we would ever see”

I also think the level of detail Staff undertook in reviewing these bills should also be commended. With millions of data points and indicators to measure, this was no easy task. I’m thankful that Staff did what the Commission requested and highlighted the instances of non-compliance. That’s exactly what we needed to be able to make an informed decision today.”

Highlights of the Commission Order

Smaller than requested rate increase. Liberty may increase annual operating revenues for electric distribution services by $97 million. Liberty requested an increase in annual operating revenues of $152.8 million. 

Phased in rates based on satisfactory improvements, measured by established customer service and billing metrics. The Commission finds that Liberty has met required billing and customer service metrics for a period of three consecutive months, January through March of 2026. As of August 3, 2026, Liberty’s rate increase will begin to be phased-in over a period of three years with approximately one-third of the increase being implemented each consecutive year. 

 
External Audit. Liberty must engage an independent third-party auditor to conduct external audits to include, but not be limited to, customer billing accuracy and timeliness and customer service and satisfaction levels across all channels. 

Arrearage Forgiveness. The Company will forgive $8.5 million in customer arrears through a targeted relief initiative. The Company will work collaboratively with stakeholders to design a creative and impactful program that facilitates the funds being used in the most meaningful and effective way.

Visit the PSC’s website at www.psc.mo.gov to learn more about the Commission and to view recent news releases and video of select proceedings.

State auditor to evaluate customer service function of Department of Revenue

(From State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick)

The concerns of numerous Missourians frustrated by the interactions they've had with the state Department of Revenue have prompted State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick to conduct a performance audit of the department's customer service function. Fitzpatrick's office recently commenced with the audit of the department that provides service to millions of Missourians each year as they file their tax returns, license their vehicles, and renew their driver licenses.

Fitzpatrick said the goal of the performance audit is to provide actionable recommendations that can help improve the quality of service the department provides to Missouri residents.

"When I talk to Missouri citizens it is all too common for them to voice their frustrations about the Department of Revenue and the problems they've had navigating the bureaucratic maze that exists as they try to get their tax refund or license their vehicle. Our office also receives numerous whistleblower complaints each year about the department and its inability to provide effective customer service," said Auditor Fitzpatrick. 

"I understand the department has an enormous task in providing service to millions of Missourians and no system will be perfect, but I believe our audit can help give the department some substantive recommendations that can make the customer service experience less frustrating and more efficient for Missouri citizens."

Fitzpatrick added, "I encourage anyone who has information that may be helpful to our audit to contact us through our Whistleblower Hotline."

Individuals may provide information confidentially for consideration during the audit of the Missouri Department of Revenue's customer service function to the State Auditor's Whistleblower Hotline at 800-347-8597, by email at moaudit@auditor.mo.gov, or by visiting www.auditor.mo.gov/hotline.

Genie Recon to expand in Springfield, create 243 jobs

(From the Missouri Department of Economic Development)

Genie Recon, an advanced remanufacturer of telescopic boom lifts, announced today that it will expand in Springfield, investing $11.5 million and creating 243 jobs. The company’s expansion will combine the expertise of aerial lift manufacturer Genie Recon with SRC Holdings Corporation.

“Genie Recon’s continued investment in Springfield is another example of Missouri companies innovating, growing, and creating opportunities for Missourians,” said Governor Mike Kehoe. “This expansion strengthens our state’s advanced manufacturing while creating high-quality jobs that will benefit families and the Springfield region for years to come. We appreciate Genie Recon’s continued confidence in Missouri and look forward to its continued success.”

Genie Recon is created through a partnership between Springfield-based SRC Holdings Corporation and Genie Lifts. At the current 136,000-square-foot-facility, Genie Recon reconditions Genie® S®-65 and S-85 telescopic boom lifts, with plans to expand to additional models. Future company plans include adding remanufacturing capability for the electronic and hydraulic systems inside these machines, a step toward Genie Recon operating as a stand-alone reconditioning business.

“Our repeatable processes produce quality products, and keeping up with growing demand requires maintaining that discipline as we scale,” said Chris Merrifield, President of Genie Recon. “Our expansion plans represent a long-term investment in both capability and careers. We are investing in people—those with experience and those eager to learn—as we continue to build workforce development opportunities here in Springfield.”

Genie Recon restores equipment to like-new condition through a controlled, repeatable, factory-aligned process. More than being repaired, each reconditioned unit is fully disassembled, inspected, and rebuilt. Key components are remanufactured, and the machine is reassembled and tested to meet original factory specifications. This approach delivers the performance, reliability, and consistency customers expect while providing a cost-effective alternative to purchasing new equipment, improving overall fleet performance and lifecycle value for the customer.

“Genie Recon’s $11.5 million investment is a massive win for Springfield and a testament to Missouri’s strength as a premier location for advanced manufacturing,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Department of Economic Development. “By creating more than 200 new, high-quality jobs, this project does more than just expand a facility - it provides sustainable career pathways that will support area families and directly boost the local economy. We are thrilled to see this collaboration thrive in southwest Missouri, strengthening our workforce, reinforcing our supply chains, and driving long-term prosperity for the entire Springfield community.”

Genie Recon currently employs approximately 60 team members. The operation is actively hiring across planning, production, maintenance, engineering, and warehouse roles, with a particular need for technicians experienced in heavy equipment service and repair. To support workforce development, Genie Recon offers technical training and tuition reimbursement programs designed to help employees build long-term careers in advanced manufacturing. New jobs added as part of Genie Recon’s expansion will pay an average wage well above the county average.

For this expansion, Genie Recon will benefit from the Missouri Works Program, a tool that helps companies expand and retain workers by providing access to capital through withholdings or tax credits for job creation. Genie Recon is estimated to receive $1,422,467 through the Missouri Works Program subject to verification of program requirements.

 

Neosho's Vondra Miller one of 35 eligible for MissourI Teacher of the Year

Vondra Miller a K-4 reading specialist for the Neosho R-5 School District is one of 35 educators eligible to be named Missouri Educator of the Year, according to a news release issued today by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Miller, who teaches at South Elementary, was recently named the district's Teacher of the Year.

The DESE news release is posted below.

The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has announced the 35 Regional Teachers of the Year who have been selected to represent their regions in the 2027 Missouri Teacher of the Year Program.

DESE’s annual Teacher of the Year program highlights the positive impact excellent Missouri teachers have on their students.

"Our Regional Teachers of the Year represent the dedication we see in classrooms statewide," said Interim Commissioner of Education Dr. Stacey Preis. "These educators go above and beyond to ensure students feel supported, challenged, and empowered to succeed. We are honored to recognize their outstanding work and grateful for the lasting impact they make on our schools and communities."

The Regional Teachers of the Year includes educators from multiple grade levels and subject areas:

Adriana Marble, Blue Springs R-IV, K-5th Grade Literacy Coach
Alazé Chowning, Richmond R-XVI, 2nd Grade
Anna McGraw-Sutterer, Premier Charter School, 1st Grade
Austin Westrich, Chaffee R-II, 7-12th Grade Business
Bailey Womble, School of the Osage, K-2nd Grade Special Education
Brandi Whitworth, Bronaugh R-VII, 7-12th Grade English Language Arts
Brock Sousa, Hannibal 60, 12th Grade Off Campus Coordinator & Special Education Post-Secondary Transition Educator
Christine Logan-Hollis, Kingston K-14, 7-8th Grade Science
Christy Kelsch, Lindbergh Schools, 2nd Grade
Clarissa Pohlman, Springfield R-XII, 6-8th Grade Spanish
Diane Euston, Grandview C-4, 9-12th Grade English
Emily Klein, Bayless, 11-12th Grade Social Studies
Heather Dunn, Missouri School for the Deaf, 6-12th Grade Graphics Communications/Media Production

Jeanne McQueen, Clayton, 5th Grade
Jennifer Moore, Kirkwood R-VII, K-5th Grade Gifted Education
Jessica Fronabarger, Oak Ridge R-VI, 7-9th Grade Science
Katie Huff, Raymore-Peculiar R-II, 9-12th Grade Special Education
Kinsey Gorrell, St. Charles R-VI, 7-8th Grade Special Education
Kristen McGauley, Ozark R-VI, 1st Grade
Megee Miller, Lewis Co. C-1, 2-4th Grade Special Education
Melanie Vulgamott, Mid-Buchanan Co. R-V, 6th Grade English Language Arts
Melissa Bouchard, Camdenton R-III, 3rd Grade
Meredith Swenson, Troy R-III, 10-12th Grade Family & Consumer Science
Nicole Crocker, Branson R-IV, 6-12th Grade Agriculture Education
Rachel Edwards, KC International Academy, 2nd Grade English Language Arts
Sarah Anne Chaney, Lexington R-V, 11-12th Grade Early Childhood & Teaching Professions
Sarah Moonier, Rockwood R-VI, 9-12th Grade Science

Sarah Newton, Valley Park, 7th Grade English Language Arts
Sarah Steffens, Fort Osage R-I, K-4th Reading Interventionist
Sherry Wibben, University City, 9-12th Grade Biology
Tamara MacLean, Ladue, K-4th Gifted Specialist
Trista Hance, Newburg R-II, 6-12th Special Education
Tyler Unsell, Park Hill, 9-12th Grade Debate, Tournament Forensics, Film Studies
Victoria Turner, St. Joseph, 7-8th Mathematics
Vondra Miller, Neosho School District, K-4th Grade Reading

The Teacher of the Year selection process began with the nomination of over 600 teachers who represented 321 school districts statewide.

In the next phase, the selection committee will review the State Teacher of the Year applications to choose and announce the semi-finalists in August.

To learn more about the 2027 Regional Teachers of the Year, please visit DESE’s Regional Teacher of the Year webpage.

Freeman Physicians Group pours $31,000 into PAC supporting Ellen Nichols

A $31,000 contribution from the Freeman Physicians Group June 11 was the largest contribution made to the Stand for Truth PAC during the last quarter, according to a disclosure report filed this afternoon with the Missouri Ethics Commission.

It was also the smallest contribution.

It was the only contribution the PAC, which supports the candidacy of Ellen Nichols for the 32nd District Senate seat currently held by Jill Carter, R-Granby, who defeated Nichols' husband, Bill White four years ago.

The $31,000 contribution cleared out the money for the Freeman Physicians Group, which filed termination papers shortly after the payout.

Stand For Truth PAC didn't make any expenditures between April 1 and June 30, and had $51,036.36 in the bank.

That money is apparently being spent this month judging by mailing this month, including one that hit Joplin today claiming Carter isn't a conservative and saying "The Real Jill Carter: Woke Classrooms, Higher Taxes, and Missed Votes."