Students are really getting into the groove of school. As the weather turns a little cooler, we start to think of pumpkin spice, turning leaves, and parent-teacher conferences!

Our students and staff are getting to know each other better every day. Teachers have valuable insights about our students, their learning, and how we can make this year its best for everyone. Please commit to visiting your students' school and teachers this fall. We look forward to seeing everyone!

Mark E. Harvey, Superintendent

Superintendent Mark Harvey has announced his plans to retire at the end of the 2025-2026 school year.

During his time as Superintendent in Boonville, Mr. Harvey has guided the district through several major improvement projects — including multiple phases of renovation of David Barton Elementary, safety upgrades at Laura Speed Elliott Middle School, and the completion of the Boonville High School Grandstand project.

Known for his approachable leadership style, Mr. Harvey could often be found visiting classrooms, connecting with staff and students, and lending a hand wherever needed—from advocating for schools at the state level to volunteering at the BHS football concession stand.

By sharing his plans well in advance, Mr. Harvey has given the district ample time to conduct a thoughtful and successful search for a quality candidate to continue moving Boonville Schools forward.

Board of Education President Sam Giroux shared, “The Board of Education would like to thank Mr. Harvey for his three years of dedicated service to the Boonville R-I School District. During that time, we have increased safety, strengthened infrastructure, and graduated students ready to be successful in our community—all under responsible fiscal policy and sound operational principles. We wish Mr. Harvey well on his retirement and want him to know he will always be a Pirate.”

The Boonville Board of Education will work with the Missouri School Boards’ Association (MSBA) to conduct a superintendent search, including stakeholder voices in the process. The goal is to have a new superintendent in place for the 2026-2027 school year.

Mr. Harvey will continue to lead Boonville Schools through June 30, 2026.

The Boonville R-I Board of Education met on September 17 to hear updates from across the district.

The Board reviewed progress on Prop 3 facility projects, which are nearing completion. Special Education Director Aly Hurt presented information about the state’s plan to close Prairie View State School after the 2025–26 school year. Four Boonville students currently attend Prairie View, and the district will work closely with families to plan next steps.

Principals shared great momentum to start the year:

The Board also approved 2025–26 bus routes and set the Assistant Golf Coach stipend at $1,200. Superintendent Harvey shared budget updates and noted an upcoming legislative visit on October 21.

The next regular meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, October 15, 2025.

The Boonville R-I Board of Education met on October 15 to hear updates on district projects, student success, and future planning.

Superintendent Mark Harvey shared updates on upcoming legislative activity, the completion of Prop 3 facility projects, and ongoing efforts to recruit substitutes across all buildings.

The next regular Board meeting will be held Wednesday, November 19, 2025.

Hannah Cole Primary is off to a fantastic start this school year!  Students and staff have worked hard throughout the first quarter, building a strong foundation for lifelong literacy success.

From our youngest learners in preschool to our second graders, every classroom is focused on developing essential reading and writing skills. In preschool, students are learning to recognize letters and identify those in their own names. Kindergarteners are beginning to connect letters with their sounds, while first graders are using those sounds to read and write words. They’re also diving into more complex patterns like blends and digraphs. By second grade, students are confidently reading books and writing their own stories.

To ensure every child gets the support they need, teachers provide small-group instruction tailored to each student’s learning goals. Families can help nurture this growth by reading together at home each evening and encouraging a lifelong love of literacy.

On Thursday, September 18th, our third-grade students traveled to Arrow Rock to the Bi-Annual Children’s Craft Festival. 

At the festival, students stepped back in time to the 1850s, exploring what life in rural Missouri looked like through historical demonstrations, crafts, games, and hands-on activities. We are grateful to offer our students a hands-on experience, giving them an up-close, personal view of history. Thanks to all of the staff and chaperones for helping to make it happen!

Ms Dennis' Career Exploration class visited the Boonville fire station for an up-close look at life as a firefighter. Students had the chance to try on real gear, hold the fire hose, and feel how heavy it was—even without water!

They also explored the fire trucks and toured the living quarters where firefighters eat and sleep during their shifts. It was an exciting, hands-on experience that gave students a new appreciation for this important career.

Students at Boonville High School and Boonslick Technical Education Center spend their days learning in countless ways —reading, assignments, lectures, and experiences. While these academic lessons are a huge part of what we do, our community hopes to see graduates who have learned to be motivated, productive citizens as they move on from high school.

Take a look at our Portrait of a Graduate video below to learn more about the goals we have for our students as they learn and grow in high school.

Be part of the Pirate crew! Boonville Schools is looking for substitute educators and support staff to join our team.

Ready to make a difference in students' lives? Click here to view open positions and apply on our hiring portal.

Questions about joining our team? Contact Heather Duncan in Central Office at 660-882-7474 or by emailing hduncan@bpsk12.net.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. You can reach out to Boonville District Communcations at news@bpsk12.net, or by reaching out to your school office. We are here to help.