🧡🖤 PUXICO WEEKLY UPDATE 🖤🧡 📅 October 26–31, 2026 🎗️ Red Ribbon Week #GoPuxico Here’s what’s happening around Puxico this week! 👇 🏀 MONDAY, OCTOBER 26 - JH Boys Basketball vs. Richland — 6:00 PM - JH Girls Basketball @ Doniphan Tournament — 4:30 PM 🏀 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 27 - JH Boys Basketball vs. Clarkton — 6:00 PM - JH Girls Basketball @ Doniphan Tournament — TBA 🎗️ WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28 - Red Ribbon Week 🏀 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29 - JH Girls Basketball @ Doniphan Tournament — TBA 🏀 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30 - JH Boys Basketball @ Advance — 6:00 PM 🏃🎺 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31 - HS Cross Country Districts - SEMO Band Day 📢 UPCOMING EVENTS - Beta Pork Loin Fundraiser — October 17–30 - Basketball Apparel Sale 📌 OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS - Jr. Beta RADA Sale begins November 2 Come out and support our students this week! 🧡🖤 GO INDIANS! 🏹

Puxico Weekly Update October 26–31, 2026

October 26, 2026
Here’s what’s happening around Puxico this week! MONDAY, OCTOBER 26 - JH Boys Basketball vs. Richland — 6:00 PM - JH Girls Basketball @ Doniphan Tournament — 4:30 PM ...
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PUXICO R-8 SCHOOL DISTRICT Karen “Susie” Hazel Puxico Hall of Fame Inductee Longtime Coach, Educator, and Mentor to Be Honored Posthumously at the 8th Annual Hall of Fame Celebration The Puxico R-8 School District is proud to announce Karen Sue “Susie” Hazel as a 2026 Puxico Hall of Fame inductee in the Athletic Category. A 1970 graduate of Puxico High School who returned to dedicate 28 years of service to her hometown school, Coach Hazel will be honored posthumously during the district’s 8th Annual Puxico Hall of Fame Celebration on Friday, December 11, 2026. For generations of Puxico athletes, she was simply “Coach Hazel.” Her competitive spirit, unmistakable voice from the sidelines, and unwavering belief in her players made her a memorable figure in Puxico athletics. But beyond the victories and championships, it was her dedication to young people and the relationships she built that defined her legacy. Following her graduation from Puxico High School in 1970, Hazel continued her education at Three Rivers Community College and Southeast Missouri State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in education. She began her professional career at Bloomfield High School, teaching physical education and coaching volleyball, softball, and cheerleading for three years before returning to Puxico. During her 28 years with the Puxico R-8 School District, Coach Hazel served as the school librarian, junior high and high school volleyball coach, girls’ softball coach, and high school cheerleading sponsor. Her volleyball programs experienced significant success, including Class 2A district championships during the 1985–86, 1993-1994, and 2003–04 seasons, along with conference and tournament accomplishments. Yet Coach Hazel’s influence extended well beyond the scoreboard. She was fiercely competitive, expected maximum effort, and never hesitated to challenge her athletes to become better. Those who played for her remember a coach whose voice could carry across an entire gymnasium and whose determination was matched only by her commitment to the girls she coached. Her familiar words, “Be tough…believe in yourself,” became more than encouragement during a difficult practice or competitive match. They represented the confidence, resilience, and determination she worked to instill in every athlete. To Coach Hazel, her players were always “her girls.” She invested in their development as athletes and as young women, teaching lessons about hard work, perseverance, accountability, and believing in themselves. She shared her knowledge generously, offering volleyball camps and clinics and helping countless young athletes improve their skills, whether through a perfectly placed serve or an encouraging word. Her commitment to Puxico athletics was never limited to the volleyball court. Throughout her career, she maintained the boys’ basketball scorebook, a responsibility she continued for two years after her retirement in 2011. She also drove school buses to athletic contests when needed and remained a devoted supporter of Puxico sports long after her coaching career ended. Coach Hazel’s life was deeply connected to the school and community she loved. She served on the Wappapello Civic Center Board and participated in professional librarian and coaching associations. Her dedication to service reflected a willingness to contribute wherever she was needed. Away from school, Karen was known as a strong, independent, generous woman who loved her family and friends. She and her husband of 52 years, Bob, enjoyed spending time on Lake Wappapello, where boating, swimming, camping, and sharing time with family were among her greatest pleasures. Her love of athletics continued through her son, Shawn, and grandsons, Dylan and Logan, whose athletic pursuits she enthusiastically supported. Whether she was coaching from the sidelines, cheering from the stands, or welcoming family and friends to the lake, Karen brought the same energy, determination, and generosity that made her such a memorable part of the Puxico community. Karen Sue Hazel passed away on July 4, 2023, at the age of 70. Although her passing left a tremendous void among those who knew and loved her, her influence remains in the lives of the hundreds of students she coached, the colleagues who served alongside her, and the families who entrusted their children to her guidance. Coach Hazel’s legacy cannot be measured by championships alone. It lives in the confidence she built, the determination she inspired, the relationships she formed, and the generations of young women who learned to believe in themselves because she believed in them first. From a Puxico High School graduate to a respected coach, educator, mentor, and lifelong supporter of her hometown school, Karen Sue “Susie” Hazel exemplified the spirit of a Puxico Indian. The Puxico R-8 School District is honored to welcome Coach Hazel into the 2026 Puxico Hall of Fame, recognizing not only her accomplishments in athletics but also a lifetime of dedication to the school and community she loved. The Puxico R-8 School District invites our school community, former athletes, colleagues, family, and friends to join us in celebrating Coach Hazel’s remarkable legacy at the 8th Annual Puxico Hall of Fame Celebration on Friday, December 11, 2026. Additional details regarding the event and ticket purchasing will be announced soon. Once an Indian, Always an Indian.

Karen “Susie” Hazel Puxico Hall of Fame Inductee

October 29, 2026
PUXICO R-8 SCHOOL DISTRICT Karen “Susie” Hazel Puxico Hall of Fame Inductee Longtime Coach, Educator, and Mentor to Be Honored Posthumously at the 8th Annual Hall of Fame C...
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Help support Puxico CEA. All funds go to student scholarships and District activities. https://stores.inksoft.com/puxico_bleacher_seats/shop/home

Help support Puxico CEA.

October 29, 2026
All funds go to student scholarships and District activities. https://stores.inksoft.com/puxico_bleacher_seats/shop/home
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Last JH home game tomorrow against Clarkton at 6pm!

Last JH home game against Clarkton at 6pm!

October 27, 2026
Junior High Indians Basketball!
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Please see the document below about Governor Kehoe’s A-F Grading System.

Governor Kehoe’s A-F Grading System.

October 23, 2026
Please see the document above about Governor Kehoe’s A-F Grading System.
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AMI/Parent Teacher Conf

Dear Puxico Families

October 20, 2026
Due to the significant increase in illness among our students and staff, Puxico R-VIII School District will utilize Alternative Methods of Instruction (AMI) days on Tuesday, Octob...
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Hey Puxico Students… Wear orange and get in free tonight! Doors open at 5:30!

Hey Puxico Students…

October 15, 2026
Wear orange and get in free tonight! Doors open at 5:30!
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Puxico R-8 School District will be making an adjustment to Bus Route #4 beginning this afternoon, Thursday, October 15. All students affected by this change have been informed and will begin riding their newly assigned bus routes this afternoon. ⏰ PLEASE NOTE: With these adjustments, pickup and drop-off times may vary slightly. We anticipate changes of approximately 10 minutes earlier or later, depending on the location of each bus stop. We appreciate your patience, understanding, and flexibility as we work through these changes to ensure safe and efficient transportation for our students. 📞 Questions? Please contact your child’s building office: 🏫 Elementary: 573-222-3542 🏫 Junior High: 573-222-3058 🏫 High School: 573-222-3175 Thank you for your continued cooperation and support of Puxico R-8 School District!

IMPORTANT TRANSPORTATION UPDATE – BUS ROUTE #4

October 15, 2026
Puxico R-8 School District will be making an adjustment to Bus Route #4 beginning this afternoon, Thursday, October 15. All students affected by this change have been informed an...
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🧡🖤 Your business. Our students. A lasting tradition. 🖤🧡 Puxico R-8 invites area businesses and organizations to partner with us in supporting student programs and preserving the memories captured in our school yearbook. Our sponsorship packages offer opportunities to feature your business in the yearbook and athletic programs, with additional visibility options in our gyms and at the baseball/softball field complexes. Yearbook-only advertising is also available. Join now and submit your artwork to be included in our winter athletic programs! Your partnership shows students that their community stands behind them. Questions or ready to get started? Contact Samantha Hood at shood@puxico.k12.mo.us or 573-222-3175. Click the link below to explore sponsorship options, review pricing, and complete your sponsorship form. Thank you for investing in our students and Puxico traditions! https://share.google/ccfDSwOirqsaCyT0H

Your business. Our students. A lasting tradition.

October 14, 2026
Puxico R-8 invites area businesses and organizations to partner with us in supporting student programs and preserving the memories captured in our school yearbook Our sponsorshi...
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Great effort by both groups to oick up wins tonight. We are on the road tomorrow at Bernie. Bus time 4:15. Game time 5:30. 8th grade to follow!

Junior High Indians Basketball

October 13, 2026
Great effort by both groups to pick up wins tonight. We are on the road tomorrow at Bernie. Bus time 4:15. Game time 5:30. 8th grade to follow!
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Red Ribbon Week Dress Up Days!

Red Ribbon Week Dress Up Days!

October 13, 2026
Red Ribbon Week Dress Up Days!
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🎓 Seniors & Senior Parents — Mark Your Calendars! 🎓 Navigating senior year and preparing for life after graduation can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone! Join us for Senior Parent Night & FAFSA Night at Puxico High School. 📍 Where: Puxico High School 📅 When: Wednesday, October 21 ⏰ Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM What to expect: FAFSA Assistance: Get hands-on help setting up your FSA ID and starting/completing the FAFSA application. Senior Year Timeline: Essential info on graduation requirements, upcoming deadlines, and senior events. College & Career Planning: Resources for college admissions, trade schools, military pathways, and local scholarships. 💡 What to bring for FAFSA help: Social Security Numbers (student & parents) 2025 Tax Returns & W-2 forms FSA ID log-in details (if you've already created one) Whether your student is heading to a four-year university, technical school, entering the workforce, or still deciding, this event is designed to give you clarity and confidence. We hope to see you there!

Seniors & Senior Parents — Mark Your Calendars!

October 7, 2026
Navigating senior year and preparing for life after graduation can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone! Join us for Senior Parent Night & FAFSA Night at Puxico Hi...
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We know it's already been a busy week, but you've got another game night in you… THE GUYS ARE IN THE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME THURSDAY! Congratulations fellas! Go Puxico Baseball!

2026 Campbell Fall Baseball Classic

October 7, 2026
We know it's already been a busy week, but you've got another game night in you… THE GUYS ARE IN THE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME THURSDAY! Congratulations fellas! Go Puxico Baseball!
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Puxico Marching Band Parade Day! October 3rd Sikeston Cotton Carnaval

Puxico Marching Band Parade Day!

October 2, 2026
Sikeston Cotton Carnaval, Saturday, October 3rd. Start time: 10:00 a.m.
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Puxico R-8 School is seeking bids on a 2020 or newer 77 passenger route bus.

Puxico R-8 School is seeking bids on a 2020 or newer 77 passenger route bus.

September 29, 2026
Bids shall be returned to Mr. Jim Clark, Transportation Director no later than Tuesday, October 6, 2026, by Noon. Bids will be accepted via email or hand delivery. Please return a...
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🎉 Celebrating 20 Years of Service! Two decades each. Sixty combined years of service. Generations of Puxico students blessed by their work. 🧡🖤 The Puxico CEA and Puxico R-8 School District are incredibly proud to honor Lamia Hobbs, Tracy Robison, and Misti McElroy for 20 years of dedicated service to public education. Throughout the years, these remarkable educators have shared their knowledge, experience, and joyful personalities with countless students, families, and colleagues. Their steady dedication and deep understanding of public education have made them trusted mentors, valued leaders, and an important part of the Puxico R-8 family. Twenty years represents thousands of school days filled with lessons taught, challenges overcome, smiles shared, and lives changed. Their influence reaches far beyond the classroom and will continue through the many students whose lives are better because of them. We are truly grateful for their service and the lasting impact they have made. Congratulations, Mrs. Hobbs, Mrs. Robison, and Mrs. McElroy! We are so fortunate to have you at Puxico R-8 School!

Celebrating 20 Years of Service!

September 28, 2026
Two decades each. Sixty combined years of service. Generations of Puxico students blessed by their work. The Puxico CEA and Puxico R-8 School District are incredibly proud to h...
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🎨 A Transformational Gift for Puxico Art Students! 🎨 The Puxico R-VIII School District is incredibly grateful to announce that our art programs have received a total of $30,000 in generous donations through the Dennis Milfeld Charitable Fund! The gifts include: 🖌️ $15,000 for Mrs. Christy Lewis’s Pre-K–6th grade art program 🎨 $15,000 for Mrs. Ashley Williams’s 7th–12th grade art program These funds will honor the memory of Dennis Milfeld by supporting art supplies, equipment, field trips, seminars, and other meaningful opportunities for our students. Our District was considered for this remarkable gift following a recommendation from beloved Puxico School retiree Diane Barnfield. We are especially thankful to Diane for continuing to advocate for Puxico students and programs, even after her retirement. We extend our sincere appreciation to the Dennis Milfeld Charitable Fund, the American Gift Fund, and everyone involved in making these donations possible. This extraordinary generosity will help our students explore their creativity, develop their talents, and experience opportunities that will have a lasting impact. Thank you for investing in our teachers, our students, and the future of the arts at Puxico R-VIII School District!

A Transformational Gift for Puxico Art Students!

September 28, 2026
The Puxico R-VIII School District is incredibly grateful to announce that our art programs have received a total of $30,000 in generous donations through the Dennis Milfeld Charit...
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🧡🖤 PUXICO WEEKLY UPDATE 🖤🧡 📅 October 12–17, 2026 #GoPuxico Here’s what’s happening around Puxico this week! 👇 ⚾🏀 MONDAY, OCTOBER 12 • HS Baseball @ OFC in Poplar Bluff — 1:00 PM • JH Girls Basketball vs. Chaffee (St. Ambrose) — 5:00 PM • JH Boys Basketball vs. Bell City — 6:15 PM 🏀🏐⚾ TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13 • Scholar Bowl vs. Twin Rivers — 4:00 PM • JH Girls Basketball @ Scott City — 4:30 PM • JH Boys Basketball @ Bernie — 5:30 PM • HS Volleyball at Stoddard County Tournament — TBA • HS Baseball @ OFC in Poplar Bluff — TBA 🏐 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14 • HS Volleyball at Stoddard County Tournament — TBA 🏃🏀🏐⚾ THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 • Scholae Bowl Meet @ Portageville — 3:30 PM • JH Girls Basketball vs. Twin Rivers — 6:00 PM • HS Volleyball at Stoddard County Tournament — TBA • HS Baseball @ OFC in Poplar Bluff — TBA 🏐 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16 • HS Volleyball at Stoddard County Tournament — TBA 🏃 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17 • Cross Country Meet @ Farmington — 12:00 PM 📢 UPCOMING EVENTS • FBLA Butter Braid Fundraiser — October 12–23 📌 OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS • 1st Quarter Ends — October 16 Come out and support our students this week!

PUXICO WEEKLY UPDATE

September 28, 2026
Here’s what’s happening around Puxico this week! MONDAY, OCTOBER 12 • HS Baseball @ OFC in Poplar Bluff — 1:00 PM • JH Girls Basketball vs. Chaffee (St. Ambrose) — 5:00 PM • J...
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🎉 Cheers to 10 Years! 🎉 The Puxico CEA and Puxico R-8 School District are proud to celebrate Mrs. Amy Yount and Mr. David “Mr. B” Barani for 10 years of dedicated service! Mrs. Yount and Mr. B work hard to engage students in learning, teach meaningful life lessons, and keep school fun along the way. Their enthusiasm, creativity, and genuine care for their students have made a lasting impact throughout our district. As they begin year 11 at Puxico R-8, we are grateful for the many ways they continue to encourage, inspire, and support our students. Their students—and our entire school community—are truly blessed to have them! Congratulations, Mrs. Yount and Mr. B!

Cheers to 10 Years!

September 16, 2026
The Puxico CEA and Puxico R-8 School District are proud to celebrate Mrs. Amy Yount and Mr. David “Mr. B” Barani for 10 years of dedicated service! Mrs. Yount and Mr. B work hard...
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It was an honor to have Puxico School Retiree, Mrs. Kathy Ginn, back on campus. We appreciate her delivery of a donation on behalf of the Salvation Army. As requested, the donation will be used toward unpaid meal balances for our students. Thank you, Mrs. Ginn, and to the Salvation Army for thinking of our students

It was an honor to have Puxico School Retiree, Mrs. Kathy Ginn, back on campus.

September 16, 2026
We appreciate her delivery of a donation on behalf of the Salvation Army. As requested, the donation will be used toward unpaid meal balances for our students. Thank you, Mr...
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