Blue Jay Briefings
January 2025
A Message from the Superintendent
2025 is here, and Marshfield R-I is excited to be back in the classrooms for the 2nd semester!
We had a terrific Christmas break, but we are ready to welcome our students back to school. High School and Junior High sports and activities calendars are packed. If you get the opportunity, we would love to see you out supporting your favorite Blue Jays on the mats, courts, or stage.
Please remember the importance of your student being at school whenever possible. Attendance is critical to student learning, and we want our students in front of our teachers as much as possible.
Take some time to talk to your child about what’s going on at their school. Student involvement is directly linked to student success. If kids are involved in their school, they are more likely to want to be there. We offer a variety of activities to get our students engaged outside of school hours.
We will also continue to provide tutoring opportunities at all grade levels for students who may need extra focus or time in a particular subject.
As winter continues, please keep your phone numbers updated with Central Office. If inclement weather strikes, we will communicate as quickly as possible, and accurate contact information is essential.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher.
We are looking forward to a great 2025! Thank you for your continued support.
Proud to Be a Blue Jay,
Mike Henry
Superintendent
Spring Break Calendar Reminders
School is in session on Monday, March 10th
Spring Break begins Monday, March 17th
Students return to class on Tuesday, March 25th
Looking ahead to next school year...
Trailblazers in Education:
Celebrating Our First Master's Cohort
This December, we proudly celebrated the graduation of our district's first cohort of teachers who earned their master's degrees in Curriculum and Instruction through our in-district program in partnership with Southwest Baptist University. These dedicated educators, who completed their studies in the summer of 2024, participated in their official graduation ceremony this winter. Congratulations to these trailblazers for their hard work and commitment to advancing education in our schools!
YOU’RE INVITED!
ELL (English Language Learners) Family Night
📅 Thursday, January 9th
📍 Marshfield High School Library
⏰ 6:00–7:30 PM
Join us for an evening of connection and learning!
✨ Dinner and childcare will be provided.
🌟 Discover ways to help your child succeed in school!
🔗 Scan the QR Code OR following THIS LINK for more details!
You're Invited to Family Jay Night
Mark your calendars for Monday, February 3, and bring the whole family to Marshfield Junior High Cafeteria for an evening of food, fellowship, and inspiration!
- 6:00 PM: Enjoy a delicious Taco Bar, prepared and served by MJHS FACS classes and Tonya Engelking.
- 6:30 PM: Hear from our special guest speaker, Alex Demczak, a former SEC quarterback for the Missouri Tigers. Alex will share his powerful message, “A Keynote Speaker for a Day. A Relationship for a Lifetime.”
Gift bags will be given to the first 50 families!
Before and After guests can visit the numerous community organization booths.
Childcare is provided for children ages 2 to 10, with post-event pizza included for them. Children not in childcare are welcome to stay with their families.
To reserve your spot, scan the QR code OR follow THIS LINK and register by Friday, January 31.
For more information, contact Jason Carter at (417) 859-2120 ext. 1203. Let’s strengthen families through a strong community!
What if the weather outside becomes frightful?
As winter approaches, it’s important to be prepared for the possibility of early school dismissals due to inclement weather. Please take time now to determine transportation plans for your student(s) in the event of an early release.
Academic Spotlight
Early Learning Center
The Early Learning Center recently hosted Winter Wonderland, it was fantastic! Families and children enjoyed a magical evening filled with festive activities, fun, and cheer. Thank you to everyone who made this event so special!
Hubble Elementary
Once Little Jays, Now Leaders - Our halls are full of stories, but some stand out more than others. We are proud to celebrate a few of our MANY alumni teachers—educators who once walked these very halls as Little Jays and now inspire the next generation of students. From learning in our classrooms to leading them, their journeys are a testament to the strength of our community and the lasting impact of Marshfield Schools.
These dedicated teachers bring a unique perspective, having grown up in our schools and returning to give back. Their commitment and passion for education ensure that Little Jays today continue to soar to new heights!
Webster Elementary
Third graders have been "traveling the world" through books this December. During language workshop, students explored both fiction and nonfiction texts read aloud to learn about various winter celebrations and holidays around the world.
As part of their learning, students also completed a STEM project related to the celebration they had just studied.
Shook Elementary
This week, 5th-grade students in Ms. Bledsoe’s class embarked on an exciting hands-on science activity—dissecting owl pellets! With curiosity and precision, students carefully examined the pellets to uncover skeletal structures of small animals that owls had eaten.
The activity offered a fascinating glimpse into the diets and habitats of owls while sharpening the students' investigative and scientific skills. From tiny bones to skull fragments, every discovery sparked awe and enthusiasm. Way to go, young scientists!
Junior High
Our sixth-grade ELA students recently developed their communication, speaking, and listening skills by interviewing members of our community. After their conversations, students crafted thoughtful reflection pieces to summarize what they learned. A big thank you to the community members who volunteered their time to connect with and inspire our sixth graders!
High School
The Academic Team performed exceptionally well recently at the Kickapoo Tournament, securing 7th place out of 17 teams. Cole Brown stood out in individual points, averaging 64 points per game and earning 5th place overall. Congratulations to the team on their impressive achievement—great job, Blue Jays! Mrs. Hoefer and the team members greatly appreciate Amanda Badgett, Lindsey Baedke, Melanie Clark, and Jessica Gorham for helping out at the tournament!
Early Learning Center
PAT/ELC Parent Engagement Night
✨ GET THOSE WINTER WIGGLES OUT! ✨
📍 Early Learning Center – All-Purpose Room
📅 January 16, 2025
⏰ 4:30–6:00 PM
Join us for a fun-filled evening of movement and play! This event is open to all ages and will feature exciting indoor gross motor activities designed to help everyone shake off those winter wiggles.
We can't wait to see you there!
Hubble Elementary
Snow events on the calendar yet :)
Webster Elementary
No events until further snow-tice :)
Shook Elementary
YOU'RE INVITED - SHOOK WINTER WONDERLAND CARNIVAL
FRIDAY, JANUARY 24TH | 6:00-8:00 PM
Join us for an evening of food, fun, and games!
- Meals: $5 per meal – Includes a hot dog, nachos, a drink (soda or water), and a snow cone.
- Game Tickets: 50 cents each. Games will require 1–2 tickets to play. Activities include games, face painting, a dance room, and more!
- Concessions: Popcorn and hot chocolate will be available for $1 each (2 tickets).
- Basket Raffle: Raffle tickets for themed baskets will be sold for $1 each in the library. No advance ticket purchases for the baskets.
Junior High
Every Tuesday and Thursday: PM Practice (JH Tutoring) ends at 5:00 pm
❌ NO TUTORING January 2nd, 7th and 9th ❌
Tutoring resumes Tuesday, January 14th
March 13th and 14th: MJHS Presents Disney's Frozen Jr.
High School
Friday, January 3rd: February ACT registration deadline
Friday, January 14th: Local scholarship application opens
Wednesday, January 22nd: ASVAB Interpretation
Friday, January 31st: Local scholarship applications due
High School Athletics
December Teacher Proud Tuesday Recipients
At Marshfield R-I Schools, we are grateful for our outstanding educators who make a lasting impact on students every day. This December, we proudly recognize our #TeacherProud Tuesday Blue Jays, each of whom has left a meaningful impression on their students and school communities.
The MJHS teachers are truly amazing! They consistently create a welcoming environment, showing kindness, support, and a willingness to help others every step of the way.
Kim Plemmons (HS) is an exceptional teacher who consistently goes above and beyond to support and inspire her students. Her dedication, creativity, and care make a lasting impact in the classroom.
Sandy Cottengim (JH) has played a significant role in nurturing her student's love for science, inspiring curiosity and a passion for learning that will last a lifetime.
Nominate a Teacher Today
Marshfield Schools is excited to join districts across the region and the Greater Ozarks Cooperating School Districts for "Teacher Proud Tuesdays!" On the second Tuesday of each month, we’ll be highlighting some of our fantastic teachers—but we need your help! To nominate an outstanding teacher for “Teacher Proud Tuesdays,” CLICK HERE.
Nominate as many teachers as you'd like! Keep in mind that nominations will carry over from month to month, so there's no need to repeat your submissions. We look forward to celebrating our amazing teaching staff through this initiative, alongside other school districts in the area!
Have you moved?
To update your student’s records with a new address, please provide proof of residency. Please note that setting up new bus transportation DOES NOT update the home address on file. Proof of residency is required for this change. You can submit your proof of residency via email to enrollment@mjays.us.
When writing a check to Marshfield R-I Schools, please remember the following:
Payable To: Ensure the check is made out to "Marshfield R-I Schools."
Amount: Clearly indicate the amount in both numeric and written forms.
Memo: Include the purpose of the check in the memo section. For example, specify the program or event, such as "ARP-Homeless Children/Youth Program."
Ink Color: Please write checks in dark ink—either black or blue.
Signature: Ensure the check is signed by the account holder.
Supporting Documentation: Attach any supporting documents that explain the payment or provide details about the program or funding source, if applicable.
Delivery: Mail or drop off the check to the following address:
Marshfield R-I Schools
170 State Hwy DD
Marshfield, MO 65706
Contact Information: Ensure your contact information (name, phone number, email) is provided or up to date in case there are any questions regarding the payment.
Not following these procedures may result in delayed posting of payment.
Free and Reduced Lunch Information for 2024-2025
To qualify for free or reduced lunches, parents must complete the Free and Reduced Lunch Form available in the Parent Portal.
Submitting this form during online registration is essential, as it helps secure funding for other programs, including preschool. Additionally, students who qualify for free and reduced lunches are eligible for JayCare at a reduced price and pay a reduced activity fee.
Please note that à la carte items, including individual milks ($0.50 each), will be charged to your child's account.
2024-2025 School Lunch Pricing Schedule:
- Elementary (K-5): $2.25
- Jr. High (6-8): $2.35
- High School (9-12): $2.60
- Teachers and Staff: $4.15
2024-2025 School Breakfast Pricing Schedule:
- Elementary (K-5): Free
- Grades (6-12): Free
- Teachers and Staff: $1.95
Reduced Lunch (All Buildings):
- $0.40
We’re excited to announce that Marshfield R-I School District has implemented the Provision 2 Breakfast Program for the 2024-2025 school year, meaning that ALL students K-12 eat breakfast for free!
Student Security Code System
At Marshfield Schools, student safety is our top priority! To ensure this, we use the Student Security Code System for important communications and after-school plans.
For your student to receive changes in after-school plans or any other message (whether by phone call or note), the caller or note must include the assigned Student Security Code.
Additionally, bus notes must include:
- Student name
- Bus number
- Address the student will be traveling to
Please note, students are only allowed to travel by bus to two pre-approved addresses set up for them.
Important Transportation Information
All permanent bus transportation changes must be communicated directly through the Central Office at 859-2120, ext. 0. Do not request permanent bus transportation changes via the classroom teacher or building office.
Key points to note:
- Students are allowed a maximum of three permanent bus changes throughout the school year.
- At any given time, students may be set up for only two transportation addresses.
- New transportation arrangements will be effective two school days after the request is made.
- Students can only travel to permanent addresses listed during online registration. No after-school notes will be accepted for addresses not previously listed by parents.
INCLEMENT WEATHER PROTOCOL- CLICK HERE
2024 - 2025 School Calendar
Start and End Times Per Building
Hubble 8:00 am - 3:39 pm
Time students may arrive
JayCare 7:00 am
Hubble (w/out JayCare fee) 7:30 am
Webster 8:00 am - 3:39 pm
Time students may arrive
JayCare 7:00 am
Webster (w/out JayCare fee) 7:30 am
Shook 7:50 - 3:29
Time students may arrive 7:25 am
Shook does not provide AM JayCare
Jr. High 8:00 am - 3:39 pm
Time students may arrive 7:15 am
High School 7:50 am - 3:29 pm
Time students may arrive 7:00 am
Free Monday Childcare at Marshfield R-I Schools
We’re excited to once again offer free childcare with enrichment activities on Mondays when class is not in session throughout the school year. This service is available for students in kindergarten through 8th grade.
- Location: FEMA South Entrance on the Webster/Jr. High Campus
- Hours: 8a.m. – 4p.m.
Students must be picked up no later than 4 p.m.
To enroll your student in Monday Childcare, please contact tracy.gray@mjays.us.
For bus transportation requests related to Monday Childcare, contact 417-859-2120 ext. 0.
Please note that childcare is available on Mondays when school is not in session, excluding extreme weather conditions and school holiday breaks.
No Monday Childcare on the Following Dates:
- March 10th: Class in Session
- March 17th: Spring Break
- April 14th: Class in Session
- May 19th: Class in Session
Sign your student(s) up for JayCare email tracy.gray@mjays.us
Morning drop off for Hubble students: Hubble
Morning drop off for Webster students: Webster
No morning JayCare for Shook students.
Afternoon pick up for Hubble, Webster, and Shook students: Hubble Door # 12
JayCare Fees for Free and Reduced Lunch Students
Morning = $2 per student per day
Afternoon = $3 per student per day
JayCare Fees for Full Price Lunch Students
Morning = $3 per student per day
Afternoon = $5 per student per day
Do you plan to attend a field trip with your student?
Volunteers must complete the volunteer form (link below) EVERY SCHOOL YEAR.
Volunteers must be registered with DHSS Family Care Safety Registry (link below) as well.
This is a ONE TIME registration process.
Important Drop-off and Pick-up Information
Please take a moment to review these procedures with any family members who may be responsible for pick-ups or drop-offs. (Links to specific building procedures are included below.)
It's important to allow yourself extra time during drop-off and pick-up to ensure the safety of all community members.
Helpful Information from Blue Jay Health Services
In the event your student becomes ill at school and needs to go home, you will be phoned by a school nurse or by the building office.
Additional information available by clicking links below.
WHEN SHOULD I KEEP MY CHILD HOME FROM SCHOOL?
Campus Parent App
You can find the Campus Parent app by searching for "Campus Parent" in your app store. The Infinite Campus app allows you to receive instant notifications when a teacher marks your student absent, when a missing assignment is due, or when their lunch balance falls below a certain amount. You can also customize your notifications through the settings option.
Phone Ext Menu Options 417-859-2120
BE PREPARED TO PROVIDE YOUR STUDENT'S SECURITY CODE WHEN CONTACTING THE SCHOOL
0 - Central Office
1 - Transportation (All transportation requests and changes should be submitted to Central Office)
2 - Marshfield Early Learning Center (Pre-School)
4 - High School (9th - 12th grade)
5 - Shook Elementary (4th and 5th grade)
6 - Jr. High (6th - 8th grade)
7 - Webster Elementary (2nd - 3rd grade)
8 - Hubble Elementary (Kindergarten - 1st grade)
Marshfield R-I Schools
Email: marshfieldr1@mjays.us
Website: mjays.us
Location: 170 State Highway DD, Marshfield, MO
Phone: 417-859-2120
Facebook: Marshfield R-I School News
Twitter: @Marshfield_R1