SENECA R-7 SCHOOL DISTRICT

Jefferson City, Mo. – On February 10, Seneca students Addison Sampson and Maddy Hembree, along with the school’s rootEd advisor, Lori Brock joined fellow rootEd students and advisors from across Missouri at the State Capitol. During rootEd Capitol Day, participants met with legislators to share firsthand how career and college advising is supporting students’ career success and strengthening Missouri’s workforce pipeline. rootEd Missouri places dedicated career advisors in rural high schools to help students define and realize their career goals, whether through college, workforce credentials, apprenticeships, or military service. Through partnering with local employers, rootEd advisors help students learn about in-demand careers, including those close to home, and the necessary training or education pathways. Governor Mike Kehoe met with rootEd Capitol Day participants to discuss the initiative’s impact on rural students and communities and the importance of making students aware of career pathways aligned to Missouri’s workforce needs. As part of rootEd’s Capitol Day, Sampson, Hembree, and Brock met with their legislator Rep. Dirk Deaton. Students from schools with a rootEd advisor from across the state described to legislators how working one-on-one with their rootEd advisor helped them to better understand their options for after graduation and access the right training and education for their chosen career pathways. High school seniors and recent graduates also represented high schools with rootEd advisors in Ava, Moberly, New Bloomfield, Ste. Genevieve, and Trenton. Dr. Karla Eslinger, Commissioner of the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, invited rootEd students and advisors to the Missouri State Board of Education meeting, which coincided with rootEd’s Capitol Day, and during the meeting, engaged with each student and advisor, asking about their plans after graduation. Additionally, Mary Schrag, President of the Missouri State Board of Education, recognized rootEd Missouri for its success in supporting college and career readiness across the state in the President’s Report section of the meeting. rootEd’s Impact for Rural Students and Communities Since launching in 2018, rootEd Missouri has supported more than 60,000 Missouri high school seniors and as of the 2025-2026 academic year, operates across 173 rural high schools, reaching nearly half of the state’s rural high schools. rootEd was able to expand into an additional 50 schools this academic year, thanks to state funding signed into law by Governor Kehoe. The results of rootEd’s model are clear: 20% more students pursuing college or career training after high school and 47% fewer students entering low-skill, low-wage jobs. In her meeting with Rep. Deaton, Addie Sampson, a senior at Seneca High School who plans to become a government teacher and is an A+ Scholarship recipient, shared how her rootEd advisor, Lori Brock, helped her: “My rootEd advisor Ms. Brock has been incredible in helping me plan for my future. As I’ve applied to schools this year and tried to figure out how to make it all possible, it’s been so helpful to have Ms. Brock right down the hall. She helps me break everything into steps, and walks me through each part, and it’s made such a difference to know she is always in my corner.” Lori Brock, the rootEd advisor at Seneca High School who has worked as an educator in Missouri for 35 years and now supports all 118 seniors while beginning prep with younger classes, shared, “My role as a rootEd advisor is to help students explore all of their career options, to figure out a plan for their next step for the relevant training or education, and of course, to carry out that plan together.” Brock continued, “To support that work, I regularly partner with local employers through engagements including career speakers and apprenticeships to give students ideas and insights on the great career opportunities, including those right by home.” Working with Educators and Employers “rootEd bridges education and industry by helping schools connect students’ next steps in training or education to their long-term career goals,” said Brian Crouse, Chief Operating Officer of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry. “When rural schools have a rootEd advisor, students are set up to understand the skills and opportunities required to thrive in Missouri’s evolving workforce, today and into the future.” To date, rootEd advisors have partnered with more than 700 businesses and organizations across Missouri on career exposure opportunities including job shadowing, internships, and industry tours. Nearly 99% of rootEd seniors participate in at least one regional career exploration experience, and rootEd schools have 30% higher participation in apprenticeships. Dr. Hal Higdon, Chancellor of Ozarks Technical Community College, which operates rootEd Missouri, shared, “Connecting education and training to in-demand careers helps both students and local economies thrive, and rootEd advisors provide the expertise, connections, and passion to do just that. We’re proud of the rootEd advisors who serve as these critical bridges in rural communities across Missouri.” rootEd Missouri is a statewide public-private partnership between the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, Ozarks Technical Community College, the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and national nonprofit rootEd Alliance. To learn more about rootEd Missouri, including viewing our new video, visit our website here. About rootEd Alliance Founded in 2018, rootEd Alliance is a national nonprofit that helps rural high school students achieve career success and strengthens America’s skilled workforce. rootEd places dedicated career advisors in rural high schools to support students in defining and realizing their career goals, whether through a college degree, workforce credentials, apprenticeships, or military service, while partnering with communities, states, and employers to close talent gaps and drive rural economic prosperity. To date, rootEd advisors have supported nearly 90,000 students across 280 rural high schools in six states, including Missouri, Texas, Arkansas, Alaska, Idaho, and Tennessee. rootEd Alliance is made possible by a group of philanthropists, convened by BDT & MSD Partners. Learn more here.

To make up for the snow days that have already impacted the Seneca School District, there will be school on the remaining make-up dates (these dates will all be on a Monday): Monday, March 2nd Monday, March 23rd Monday, April 13th Remember to check your school's Facebook pages and local news for school closings due to weather and any other important announcements.

SENECA, MO - The Seneca R-VII School District is excited to announce the hiring of Will King as the next Principal of Seneca High School. A familiar and trusted leader in the Seneca community, King is a 1995 graduate of Seneca High School and brings more than two decades of experience serving Seneca students and families. “Will King is a proven leader who has consistently built a strong culture and climate while maintaining high standards for learning,” - Dr. Brandon Eggleston “Will King is a proven leader who has consistently built a strong culture and climate while maintaining high standards for learning,” said Dr. Brandon Eggleston, Superintendent of Seneca R-VII Schools. “Seneca High School has a long-standing tradition of excellence, and I know Mr. King will not only continue that momentum, but also strengthen the great work taking place for our students, staff, and community.” King currently serves as Principal of Seneca Intermediate School, a position he has held since 2016. He began his career in the Seneca School District more than 23 years ago as a math teacher at Seneca High School. After two years in the Chadwick School District as an Athletic Director, Head Boys Basketball coach, and teacher, King returned to Seneca in 2004, where he taught math and physical education. He also served as Head Boys Basketball Coach from 2004–2022. King holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Math Education from Missouri Southern State University, a Master’s Degree in Administration from William Woods University, and a Specialist Degree in District Administration from Arkansas State University. “I consider myself truly blessed that most of my career has been spent in the Seneca School District,” - Principal, Will King “I consider myself truly blessed that most of my career has been spent in the Seneca School District,” King said. “Seneca is a special district and community - full of tradition, pride, and class. I believe strongly in positive relationships and collaboration, and I am excited to begin this new role by partnering with our outstanding high school staff as we continue preparing students for success beyond high school.” King and his wife, Lisa, are proud members of the Seneca community. Lisa has served as an administrative assistant at Seneca Elementary School for 18 years. Together, they have three daughters: Addie (‘19), Mallorie (‘22), and Jolie, who is currently a 10th grade student at Seneca High School. Will and Lisa are also proud grandparents to four grandchildren. King will officially begin his duties as principal on August 1st. See the attached PDF press release.

Seneca R-7 School District Notice of School Board Candidate Filing The Seneca R-7 School District encourages qualified individuals interested in serving on the Board of Education to file as candidates in the April 7, 2026, election. Filing will take place at the Superintendent’s Office, located at 914 Frisco Street, Seneca, MO 64865. For additional information, contact Dr. Brandon Eggleston at (417) 776-3426. Filing Period: Filing opens December 9, 2025, at 8:00 a.m., and continues during the district’s regular business hours, Tuesday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Filing will not occur on days the district’s central offices are closed due to inclement weather, nor during district holidays and breaks from December 19, 2025, through December 30, 2025. On the final day of filing, December 30, 2025, the district office will be open from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., and filing will close promptly at 5:00 p.m. There are three (3) positions available, each serving a three-year term.

The mission of Seneca School District is "Every child, every day, whatever it takes". SHS's Seneca Strong event is an excellent example of this mission statement. Every student in SHS had the opportunity to participate in Future-Ready activities on October 1st. Seniors attended a College Fair, ate in a dining hall and participated in a photo scavenger hunt on MSU campus. Juniors completed the ASVAB, listened to the wisdom of an adult panel regarding career paths and life in general and participated in team building activities or listened to a Job Center speaker on options other than college. Sophomores completed the PreACT and toured the Joplin Advanced Training & Technology Center. Both Juniors and Sophomores were treated to a catered lunch. Freshmen heard from the Job Center speaker and toured Pitt State, eating in their dining hall. The "whatever it takes" included a large number of adults investing time and effort in order to make this happen. The students were provided a great lunch by the Wyandotte tribe; teachers served as sponsors, test proctors, bus drivers and panel speakers; Pittsburg State University and the Advanced Technology Training Center hosted our students providing tours; Nixa High School included our students in their Regional MOACAC College Fair; A MO National Guard member set up team building activities (despite the government shut down); several community members served as panel speakers and the Job Center representative presented to both the Freshmen and Juniors. This was created by the High School's Assessment team and organized by the Counseling office, including the rootEd advisor. THANKS to all involved!

Welcome back, SHS students and families! We’re gearing up for another great school year, and here’s everything you need to know to kick things off smoothly — from schedule pickups to Chromebook checkouts, fees, and schedule change info. 📅 Schedule Pick-Up Dates TUESDAY, AUGUST 12 Seniors🕘 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM📌 Must bring proof of senior shot WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13 Juniors🕘 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM Sophomores🕐 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM THURSDAY, AUGUST 14 Freshmen 🕘 9:00 AM @ Freshman Orientation 🕕 6:00 PM @ Open House 👉 Freshman Parents:You must attend one of the parent meetings on 8/14 🕘 9:00 AM or 🕕 6:00 PMto get your student's Chromebook before the first day of school. 💵 Pay Fines & Fees Early! Avoid the lines! You can pay fines and fees early (Mon–Wed) to speed up schedule pickup and Chromebook checkout. Less stress = more success. 📝 Schedule Change Info 11th–12th Graders Forms available any time after schedule pickup, except Thursday 8/14 Parent/guardian signature required Only 1 form per semester allowed Requests not guaranteed (depends on class size) All changes must be done by Friday 8/22 No changes after this date! 9th–10th Graders Forms available on the first day of school Parent/guardian signature required Only 1 form per semester allowed Requests not guaranteed All changes must be done by Friday 8/22 No changes after this date! 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Senior Parent Meeting 📅 Thursday, August 21🕡 6:30 PM Come get key info to help your senior finish strong!

ELECTRONIC PERSONAL COMMUNICATION DEVICES The Missouri Legislature passed a new law (Senate bill 68) requiring all school districts to adopt clear policies restricting student use of personal electronic communication devices during the school day. This includes passing periods and lunch. The law, which aims to reduce distractions and improve student engagement, takes effect on the first day of this school year. The following is a quick look at what you can expect this year. 1. Students may not use cell phones, earbuds/wireless headphones, smart watches, or other personal electronic devices at any point during the school day, including transitions, lunch, and other non-instructional times. 2. Students in grades 5-12 will be issued locks and lockers to store their device during the academic day. 3. Considerations will be made for students with specific educational or medical needs as outlined in a student’s IEP, 504 plan or individual health plan. 4. In the event of an emergency, protocols are in place at every school. Staff are trained to respond quickly and communicate effectively with students and families. In any crisis, student safety will always take priority over device expectations. We recognize that our students will be adjusting to these new expectations in the first days of school. You can support them by having conversations now about what will be expected. We look forward to working together with you to help our students learn and build productive and healthy technology habits.

Get Ready, Seneca! Your Back-to-School Schedule for August 2025 is Here The summer is flying by, and a new school year at Seneca High School is just around the corner! To help students and families prepare, the official back-to-school schedule for August 2025 has been released. Mark your calendars for these important dates and events. A Big Day for Freshmen and Families: Thursday, August 14 The high school journey begins for the newest class of students with a full day of orientation and meetings. Freshman Orientation: The day kicks off at 9:00 AM with Freshman Orientation. Ninth-grade students will meet at the Old Gym, while parents have a dedicated meeting at the New Gym. Open House: Later that evening, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, all Seneca R7 buildings will be open for the annual Open House. This is a great opportunity for students and parents to tour the facilities and meet the staff. Freshman Parent Meeting: For those who couldn't make the morning session, there will be another Freshman Parent Meeting at 6:00 PM in the New Gym. Freshman parents are strongly encouraged to attend one of these two meetings. Show Your School Spirit: Saturday, August 16 Get into the school spirit at Tribe Night! Join students, staff, and the community at the SHS Football Field from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM for an evening of fun and excitement as we gear up for the new year. The First Day of School: Tuesday, August 19 The first official day of the 2025-2026 school year is Tuesday, August 19. The school day will run from 7:40 AM to 3:25 PM. Attention Senior Parents Looking ahead, there will be a Senior Parent Meeting on Thursday, August 21, at 6:30 PM in the New Gym. This is an important meeting to discuss the year ahead for the graduating class. For the most current information and any updates, please visit the Seneca R-7 School District website at senecar7.com or follow Seneca High School on Facebook. The school is located at 1110 Neosho Street, Seneca, MO 64865.

School Supply List 1 box of facial tissues 1 package of baby wipes (for hands/faces, refills are acceptable) 3 packages of 5 oz. plastic drinking cups 1 bottle of Elmer's glue 1 large Elmer's glue stick 1 pair of 5" blunt tip scissors 2 EXPO fine tip black dry erase markers 1 package of CRAYOLA markers (classic colors) 2 boxes of LARGE (not jumbo) CRAYOLA crayons 1 4-pack of Play-Doh 2 plastic pocket folders 1 backpack (big enough to carry folders/projects)

Get ready to kick off the new school year! Here are the key dates and events to get your Seneca Intermediate student prepared for a great year ahead. Meet Your Teacher at the Open House Mark your calendars for the evening of Thursday, August 14th, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM for the Seneca Intermediate Open House. This is a "come and go" event, so you can drop in whenever is most convenient for your family within that two-hour window. Most importantly, this is when your student will find out who their teacher will be for the upcoming school year! It's the perfect opportunity to see the school, meet the staff, and get excited for the year to come. Celebrate at the Back to School Bash Join the Seneca community for a fun and festive Back to School Bash on Saturday, August 16th, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Seneca Park. This free event is hosted by the dedicated Seneca PTO and is a wonderful chance for students and families from all Seneca schools to connect before classes officially begin. It's a great way to celebrate the end of summer and the start of a new academic year together as a community. First Day of School The first day of classes for all students will be on Tuesday, August 19th. We look forward to welcoming everyone back for another fantastic school year

The start of the new School Year is fast approaching. This is a busy time for parents and school staff as well. With this in mind it is important to note that the staff sections of the website have not yet been updated for each school or the District as a whole, therefore some staff information may be outdated therefore incorrect. If you need assistance the best course of action is to reach out to the main number of the building you need and let them direct you. Here is a list of our school contact information.

Seneca Intermediate School Official Supply Lists The new school year is just around the corner, and it's time to get prepared! To help our families get a head start on back-to-school shopping, we have compiled the official supply lists for the 2025-2026 academic year at Seneca Intermediate School. Below you will find the detailed lists for 4th, 5th, and 6th grade. Please note any specific details, such as quantities, colors, or sizes. 4th Grade Supply List 1 - pencil pouch (NO BOXES) 12 - Expo markers 1 - composition notebook 1 - 2 inch binder 1 - 1.5 inch binders 1 - folders with brads 1 - Lysol wipes 2 - box of tissues 2 - set of headphones or earbuds 1 - Pack of WIDE ruled paper 48 - Pencils 5th Grade Supply List 2 - set of earbuds 2 - 1 subject spiral notebooks or composition books with holes 1 - 2 subject spiral notebook 1 - 2” Ring Binder (hardback) 1 - pkg. of 5 pocket dividers 1 - pkg. of 4 dry erase markers 1 - 3 ring pencil pouch 1 - 5” Fiskar scissors 1 - Highlighters (optional 3-4 assorted colors) 1 - Disinfecting wipes 3 - boxes of tissue 1 - 12 ct. Colored pencils 1 - take home folder 3 - Pkg. #2 pencils-24 count 2 - Package of pencil cap erasers 1 - package of WIDE ruled paper 2 - Glue Sticks 6th Grade Supply List 1- zip binder 2” at least 1 - zipper pouch for binder 1 - 1 ½” - 3-ring binder 5 - Pocket Dividers for binder 4 - sets of Earbuds 6 - Kleenex boxes 3 - Clorox Wipes 6 - 3-prong pocket folders 12 - EXPO markers - ALL BLACK 3 - pack of highlighters 6 - composition books 48 - Pencils 1 - Package of pencil cap erasers Art Supplies- (1) package of #2 pencils (1) set of colored pencils We recommend labeling all personal items with your child's name. We are looking forward to a productive and exciting school year with our students.