De Soto #73 School District
610 Vineland School Road De Soto, MO 63020 Phone 636-586-1000 Fax 636-586-1009
Welcome to De Soto #73!
Please join us in welcoming Mrs. Alexus Earhart (Mrs. Earhart to her students!) to the De Soto #73 School District for the 2026–2027 school year!
Position/Title:
Kindergarten Teacher
Building:
Athena Elementary
Previous Experience:
Prior to joining the De Soto team, Alexus taught Kindergarten for the past three years in Perryville. She also completed her student teaching at Valle Catholic and worked as a paraprofessional at Sunrise Elementary for nearly two years.
Fun Fact / What She’s Excited About:
She’s most excited to work closer to home and in the community where she grew up.
We are thrilled to welcome Alexus to our team and look forward to the positive impact she will have on our students and school community. Please help us give her a warm Dragon welcome
Please join us in welcoming Mrs. Alexus Earhart (Mrs. Earhart to her students!) to the De Soto #73 School District for the 2026–2027 school year!
Position/Title:
Kindergarten Teacher
Building:
Athena Elementary
Previous Experience:
Prior to joining the De Soto team, Alexus taught Kindergarten for the past three years in Perryville. She also completed her student teaching at Valle Catholic and worked as a paraprofessional at Sunrise Elementary for nearly two years.
Fun Fact / What She’s Excited About:
She’s most excited to work closer to home and in the community where she grew up.
We are thrilled to welcome Alexus to our team and look forward to the positive impact she will have on our students and school community. Please help us give her a warm Dragon welcome
We’re Hiring!
The De Soto #73 School District is looking for a bus technician/mechanic to join our transportation team!
If you're interested, you can apply:
Online: via MOREAP
In Person: Visit our Transportation Office at 3781 Athena School Rd. De Soto, MO 63020.
Have questions?
Contact Mr. Eric Young at 636-586-1078 or young.eric@desoto.k12.mo.us.
Help us keep our students safe and moving—join the Dragon team!
The De Soto #73 School District is looking for a bus technician/mechanic to join our transportation team!
If you're interested, you can apply:
Online: via MOREAP
In Person: Visit our Transportation Office at 3781 Athena School Rd. De Soto, MO 63020.
Have questions?
Contact Mr. Eric Young at 636-586-1078 or young.eric@desoto.k12.mo.us.
Help us keep our students safe and moving—join the Dragon team!
We’re hiring substitutes!
The De Soto #73 School District is accepting applications for substitute teachers, paraprofessionals, custodians, bus drivers, and bus aides. Enjoy flexible scheduling, meaningful work, and opportunities across multiple campuses.
Apply today and support our students and schools!
The De Soto #73 School District is accepting applications for substitute teachers, paraprofessionals, custodians, bus drivers, and bus aides. Enjoy flexible scheduling, meaningful work, and opportunities across multiple campuses.
Apply today and support our students and schools!
Welcome to De Soto #73!
Please join us in welcoming Ms. Allison St. John (Ms. St. John to her students!) to the De Soto #73 School District for the 2026–2027 school year!
Position/Title:
Second Grade Teacher
Building:
Athena Elementary
Previous Experience:
Prior to joining the De Soto team, Allison previously taught Kindergarten and First Grade at Sunrise Elementary School.
Fun Fact / What She’s Excited About:
She enjoys being outdoors and caring for her animals, and she’s excited to bring that same love of learning and curiosity into her second-grade classroom this year!
We are thrilled to welcome Allison to our team and look forward to the positive impact she will have on our students and school community. Please help us give her a warm Dragon welcome!
Please join us in welcoming Ms. Allison St. John (Ms. St. John to her students!) to the De Soto #73 School District for the 2026–2027 school year!
Position/Title:
Second Grade Teacher
Building:
Athena Elementary
Previous Experience:
Prior to joining the De Soto team, Allison previously taught Kindergarten and First Grade at Sunrise Elementary School.
Fun Fact / What She’s Excited About:
She enjoys being outdoors and caring for her animals, and she’s excited to bring that same love of learning and curiosity into her second-grade classroom this year!
We are thrilled to welcome Allison to our team and look forward to the positive impact she will have on our students and school community. Please help us give her a warm Dragon welcome!
Happy National School Counselors Week!
This week, we proudly recognize and celebrate our incredible school counselors for the vital role they play in supporting our students’ academic success, social-emotional well-being, and future planning. From listening and encouraging to guiding and advocating, their impact reaches far beyond the counseling office.
Thank you for helping our students navigate challenges, discover their strengths, and plan for what’s ahead. We are grateful for your dedication to our schools and our community!
This week, we proudly recognize and celebrate our incredible school counselors for the vital role they play in supporting our students’ academic success, social-emotional well-being, and future planning. From listening and encouraging to guiding and advocating, their impact reaches far beyond the counseling office.
Thank you for helping our students navigate challenges, discover their strengths, and plan for what’s ahead. We are grateful for your dedication to our schools and our community!
We’re Hiring! Join the De Soto #73 team
We are currently looking for passionate professionals to support our students and schools:
• Speech Language Pathologist
• Occupational Therapist
• Physical Therapist
Starting pay: $51,250+ annually (based on experience)
Apply online at: moreap.net: https://www.moreap.net/jobsrchDistrict.php?district=500140000
If you’re looking for a rewarding career where you can make a real difference every day, we’d love to hear from you.
We are currently looking for passionate professionals to support our students and schools:
• Speech Language Pathologist
• Occupational Therapist
• Physical Therapist
Starting pay: $51,250+ annually (based on experience)
Apply online at: moreap.net: https://www.moreap.net/jobsrchDistrict.php?district=500140000
If you’re looking for a rewarding career where you can make a real difference every day, we’d love to hear from you.
Early Childhood (Preschool) Registration Now Open!
De Soto #73 is now accepting applications for the 2026–2027 Early Childhood Program for children ages 3–5. This full-day program helps our youngest learners grow, explore, and get ready for kindergarten.
Register online:
https://www.desoto.k12.mo.us/parents/registration
Or register in person- no appointment necessary:
ECC Building (Rock Road) — March 17- 4:00-6:00 PM
Athena Elementary — March 18 - 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Required documents:
- Birth certificate
- Immunization records
- Proof of residency
Enrollment is not complete until all documents are uploaded. Incomplete applications will be placed on a waitlist.
Full-Day Program (Monday–Friday)
Child must be 3 years old by July 31, 2026
De Soto #73 families receive priority, with remaining spots filled first-come, first-served.
Questions? Contact Diana Casey, Early Childhood Center Director at 636-586-1040.
We can’t wait to welcome your little learners to De Soto #73!
De Soto #73 is now accepting applications for the 2026–2027 Early Childhood Program for children ages 3–5. This full-day program helps our youngest learners grow, explore, and get ready for kindergarten.
Register online:
https://www.desoto.k12.mo.us/parents/registration
Or register in person- no appointment necessary:
ECC Building (Rock Road) — March 17- 4:00-6:00 PM
Athena Elementary — March 18 - 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Required documents:
- Birth certificate
- Immunization records
- Proof of residency
Enrollment is not complete until all documents are uploaded. Incomplete applications will be placed on a waitlist.
Full-Day Program (Monday–Friday)
Child must be 3 years old by July 31, 2026
De Soto #73 families receive priority, with remaining spots filled first-come, first-served.
Questions? Contact Diana Casey, Early Childhood Center Director at 636-586-1040.
We can’t wait to welcome your little learners to De Soto #73!
Bronze Sponsor Spotlight!
Please join us in thanking Granny Franny's., our newest proud Bronze Sponsor of De Soto #73 School District!
As a small business, their support means so much to our students and school programs. Look for their name in our pre-game sponsor loop!
We appreciate your partnership!
Please join us in thanking Granny Franny's., our newest proud Bronze Sponsor of De Soto #73 School District!
As a small business, their support means so much to our students and school programs. Look for their name in our pre-game sponsor loop!
We appreciate your partnership!
Thank You, Custodial & Maintenance Teams!
We would like to extend a huge thank you to our custodial and maintenance crews for their hard work over the past several days. From clearing snow and ice to preparing our buildings and grounds, their dedication has been essential in ensuring our campuses are safe and ready for the return of our students and staff.
We truly appreciate the long hours, teamwork, and commitment you show—often behind the scenes—to take care of our schools and our community. Thank you for all that you do!
We would like to extend a huge thank you to our custodial and maintenance crews for their hard work over the past several days. From clearing snow and ice to preparing our buildings and grounds, their dedication has been essential in ensuring our campuses are safe and ready for the return of our students and staff.
We truly appreciate the long hours, teamwork, and commitment you show—often behind the scenes—to take care of our schools and our community. Thank you for all that you do!
Inclement Weather Update
Our Inclement Weather Day Tracker has been updated.
Today marks our third AMI (Alternative Methods of Instruction) Day for the school year.
We have two AMI days remaining before we would need to transition to traditional snow days, which—if needed—would be added to the end of the school year.
Thank you for your continued flexibility and support as we work to keep students learning while prioritizing safety.
Our Inclement Weather Day Tracker has been updated.
Today marks our third AMI (Alternative Methods of Instruction) Day for the school year.
We have two AMI days remaining before we would need to transition to traditional snow days, which—if needed—would be added to the end of the school year.
Thank you for your continued flexibility and support as we work to keep students learning while prioritizing safety.
Welcome to De Soto #73!
Please join us in welcoming Savannah Kraus (Ms. Kraus to her students!) to the De Soto #73 School District for the 2026–2027 school year!
Position/Title:
Kindergarten Teacher
Building:
Athena Elementary
Previous Experience:
Prior to joining the De Soto team, Savannah served as a teacher’s aide/para at Our Lady School for two years and completed a full semester of student teaching with the Windsor School District.
Fun Fact / What She’s Excited About:
Savannah is very excited to be joining the De Soto School District! She enjoys baking, being creative, and spending time with her family. This year is especially exciting as she is getting married!
We are thrilled to welcome Savannah to our team and look forward to the positive impact she will have on our students and school community. Please help us give her a warm Dragon welcome!
Please join us in welcoming Savannah Kraus (Ms. Kraus to her students!) to the De Soto #73 School District for the 2026–2027 school year!
Position/Title:
Kindergarten Teacher
Building:
Athena Elementary
Previous Experience:
Prior to joining the De Soto team, Savannah served as a teacher’s aide/para at Our Lady School for two years and completed a full semester of student teaching with the Windsor School District.
Fun Fact / What She’s Excited About:
Savannah is very excited to be joining the De Soto School District! She enjoys baking, being creative, and spending time with her family. This year is especially exciting as she is getting married!
We are thrilled to welcome Savannah to our team and look forward to the positive impact she will have on our students and school community. Please help us give her a warm Dragon welcome!
School Closure Announcement
Due to snow-covered roads and the risk of refreezing surfaces, and to ensure the safety of our students and staff, all schools within the De Soto #73 School District will be closed tomorrow, Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
Tomorrow will be our third AMI Day (Alternative Methods of Instruction). Students should complete their remote learning assignments as instructed by their building. Please check your email for an AMI Days FAQ to help answer any questions.
Stay safe and warm, Dragon Families!
Due to snow-covered roads and the risk of refreezing surfaces, and to ensure the safety of our students and staff, all schools within the De Soto #73 School District will be closed tomorrow, Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
Tomorrow will be our third AMI Day (Alternative Methods of Instruction). Students should complete their remote learning assignments as instructed by their building. Please check your email for an AMI Days FAQ to help answer any questions.
Stay safe and warm, Dragon Families!
Inclement Weather Update
Our Inclement Weather Day Tracker has been updated.
Today marks our second AMI (Alternative Methods of Instruction) Day for the school year.
We have three AMI days remaining before we would need to transition to traditional snow days, which—if needed—would be added to the end of the school year.
Thank you for your continued flexibility and support as we work to keep students learning while prioritizing safety.
Our Inclement Weather Day Tracker has been updated.
Today marks our second AMI (Alternative Methods of Instruction) Day for the school year.
We have three AMI days remaining before we would need to transition to traditional snow days, which—if needed—would be added to the end of the school year.
Thank you for your continued flexibility and support as we work to keep students learning while prioritizing safety.
At the January Board of Education meeting, Athena proudly recognized the following teachers for their hard work, dedication, and commitment to our students:
Janice Bone
Stacee Delarber
Kacie Stanley
Each day, these educators bring fresh ideas, creative strategies, and meaningful tools into their classrooms to help students grow and succeed. While some days come with challenges, their passion and dedication ensure that every day is meaningful and rewarding for the students they serve.
We are grateful for the heart, effort, and excellence they bring to Athena. Thank you for all you do!
Janice Bone
Stacee Delarber
Kacie Stanley
Each day, these educators bring fresh ideas, creative strategies, and meaningful tools into their classrooms to help students grow and succeed. While some days come with challenges, their passion and dedication ensure that every day is meaningful and rewarding for the students they serve.
We are grateful for the heart, effort, and excellence they bring to Athena. Thank you for all you do!
School Closure Announcement
Due to snow-covered roads and the risk of refreezing surfaces, and to ensure the safety of our students and staff, all schools within the De Soto #73 School District will be closed tomorrow, Tuesday, January 27, 2026.
Tomorrow will be our second AMI Day (Alternative Methods of Instruction). Students should complete their remote learning assignments as instructed by their building. Please check your email for an AMI Days FAQ to help answer any questions.
Stay safe and warm, Dragon Families!
Inclement Weather Update
Our Inclement Weather Day Tracker has been updated.
Today marks our first AMI (Alternative Methods of Instruction) Day for the school year.
We have four AMI days remaining before we would need to transition to traditional snow days, which—if needed—would be added to the end of the school year.
Thank you for your continued flexibility and support as we work to keep students learning while prioritizing safety.
Our Inclement Weather Day Tracker has been updated.
Today marks our first AMI (Alternative Methods of Instruction) Day for the school year.
We have four AMI days remaining before we would need to transition to traditional snow days, which—if needed—would be added to the end of the school year.
Thank you for your continued flexibility and support as we work to keep students learning while prioritizing safety.
At the January Board of Education meeting, Athena proudly recognized the following students for achieving perfect attendance during the first semester:
Student Honorees
Jaxon T.
Dawson A.
Magdalene C.
Emersyn F.
Lyla F.
Abagail G.
Tessa S.
Luke S.
Alieyah B.
Oakley C.
Lincoln F.
Logan P.
Layna S.
Ryan W.
Brantley C.
Thomas M.
Havannah P.
Griffin R.
Camden F.
Jensen J.
Audrey P.
Karter R.
Izabella W.
Having perfect attendance is not only an outstanding achievement for our students, but also for the families who support them along the way. We are very proud of each of these students for their dedication, responsibility, and commitment to learning.
Student Honorees
Jaxon T.
Dawson A.
Magdalene C.
Emersyn F.
Lyla F.
Abagail G.
Tessa S.
Luke S.
Alieyah B.
Oakley C.
Lincoln F.
Logan P.
Layna S.
Ryan W.
Brantley C.
Thomas M.
Havannah P.
Griffin R.
Camden F.
Jensen J.
Audrey P.
Karter R.
Izabella W.
Having perfect attendance is not only an outstanding achievement for our students, but also for the families who support them along the way. We are very proud of each of these students for their dedication, responsibility, and commitment to learning.
Due to heavy snowfall, bitterly cold temperatures, and to ensure the safety of our students and staff, all schools within the De Soto #73 School District will be closed tomorrow, Monday, January 26, 2026.
Today will be our first AMI Day (Alternative Methods of Instruction). Students should complete their remote learning assignments as instructed by their building. Please check your email for an AMI Days FAQ to help answer any questions.
Stay safe and warm, Dragon Families!
We’re Hiring!
De Soto #73 is looking for a Parents as Teachers Parent Educator to join our team!
If you’re passionate about supporting families and helping young children learn and grow, we’d love to hear from you.
How to Apply:
• Apply online through MOREAP
Questions?
Please contact Aleen Davis at davis.aleen@desoto.k12.mo.us
Join us in making a difference for our youngest Dragons!
At last week’s Board of Education meeting, the ILC, High School, and Middle School were proud to recognize the dedicated staff of the Inno
