The school year is well underway at Morgan County R-II, and we are proud of the many positive things happening across our district. Our students and staff have settled into the rhythm of daily learning, and a strong sense of energy and enthusiasm can be felt in every building. From classroom instruction to extracurricular activities, there is much to celebrate.
At the August Board of Education meeting, we celebrated our custodial and maintenance teams for their hard work preparing our buildings for the start of school. We also heard from Erin Smith, Director of Special Education, and Kim Murdock, Director of the Little Tigers Early Learning Center, who shared about the great work being done in their programs to serve and support students and families.
In September, we recognized our bus drivers for their dedication to getting students safely to and from school each day. Transportation Coordinator Tiffany Shuck shared a program review,
highlighting the strong systems and improvements underway in her department. In addition, Versailles Elementary School Principal Larissa Cutsinger shared about the exciting learning and student opportunities at VES. We also heard from VHS Student Body President Sarah Bland, whose update reflected the positive leadership and spirit of our students.
This year, Becki Kempf has taken on a new role as Assistant Superintendent. She is working closely with staff to strengthen instruction, assessment, and curriculum, ensuring that our teaching practices continue to grow and serve students well.
Another focus for the Board and district leadership has been planning for the future. We are partnering with an architect to study our facilities and ensure that our schools can continue meeting the needs of students and the community. This planning will allow us to be proactive and thoughtful in addressing growth, safety, and long-term improvement.
While we celebrate the successes happening each day, we also know that many in our school community are navigating the pain of recent losses. Over the summer, we lost a student in a car accident. More recently, other students and families have experienced the loss of loved ones. Our hearts go out to all who are grieving. The strength, compassion, and care demonstrated by staff, students, families, and community members have been truly inspiring. Together, we are working to support one another and create an environment of hope and healing.
As we move forward, I remain deeply grateful for the dedication of our staff, the resilience of our students, and the unwavering support of our community. I also want to extend my sincere thanks to the many patrons who have offered encouragement as I assume the role of superintendent. The path is not always easy, but we are stronger when we walk it together.
Dr. Bryan Pettengill
Superintendent of Schools
Morgan County R-2
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At the September meeting of the Morgan County R-II Board of Education, Superintendent Dr. Bryan Pettengill invited school bus drivers to be recognized for the crucial role they play in the district.
Pettengill noted that drivers are often the very first staff member a child sees in the morning and the last they see in the afternoon. With a smile, a kind word, or simply by being a dependable presence, bus drivers set the tone for the day and help students feel safe and cared for. Driving a school bus is no small task, as drivers maneuver large buses on curvy, narrow, and hilly roads, especially lake, while also managing dozens of children. That work takes skill, patience, and a steady hand.
Transportation Coordinator Tiffany Shuck shared key statistics in her program review. Morgan County R-II encompasses approximately 209 square miles. The district's 15 established routes collectively log more than 64 hours each day to transport about 700 students to and from school, covering over 1,200 miles daily, not including shuttles, field trips, and mid-day routes. In the 2024-2025 school year, the transportation department recorded 247,111 miles traveled.
Board and transportation team members in attendance included, front row (left to right): Brian Rasa, Rosalie Dear, Jenny Bias, Leigh Evanoff, Tiffany Shuck, Lori Croy; and back row (left to right): Dwayne Schad, April Boicourt, Aaron Allen, Scott Wilson, Cassie Wilhelm, Dan Ehler, Phil Hilty, Deanna Lewis, Chris Lewis, Benji Wilson, and Brad Chamberlain.
“We are fortunate to have a dedicated team,” Pettengill said, expressing gratitude on behalf of the district and Board of Education for the drivers' vital role in making education possible each day.
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The 9th Annual Veteran’s Memorial Ride made its way past the Morgan County R-II main campus in Versailles, Missouri. Students from every building lined the streets, proudly waving American flags as motorcycles carrying our honored veterans rode past.
The ride continued on to the Little Tigers Early Learning Center in Gravois Mills, Missouri, bringing the community together to show respect and gratitude for those who have served our country.
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Name: Mr. Eric Tyler
Building: Versailles High School
Subject: Physical Science
Q: Where are you from?
A: Eugene, Missouri
Q: What degree(s) and certifications do you hold and from where?
A: Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems from Columbia College.
Q: Why are you proud to be a Tiger?
A: I'm proud to be a Tiger because I can make a difference in the community.
Q: Have you worked in any other school district?
A: Yes, Change Academy & Capital High School.
Q: What is your favorite kind of soda?
A: A vanilla Dr. Pepper.
Q: What are you looking forward to the most this school year?
A: I'm looking forward to this new journey as a Tiger and what it will bring.
Please welcome Mr. Eric Tyler! We are so glad to have him as part of our Tiger Family!
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Location: Versailles Elementary Cafeteria
Date: Tuesday, October 8
Time: 6:00–10:00 PM
Students ages 11 and up are invited to take part in this Hunter Education Skills Course.
Before attending:
Complete the pre-course work by either finishing the online course or using a Hunter Education book (study + review questions).
Bring your online certificate or completed book with you to class.
Books are available at the Morgan County Justice Center front desk.
Pre-registration is required! Visit mdc.mo.gov and follow the Hunter Ed link to sign up.
Questions? Contact:
Matt Smith: 573-378-3114
Matt Wheaton: 573-378-0763
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Homecoming 2025 is almost here!
Join us for a magical week full of school spirit, fun events, and Tiger pride! This year's theme is Disney!
Spirit Week Schedule:
Tuesday, October 7 – "Monsters University"
Rep your favorite college gear or dress as characters from Monsters University!
Wednesday, October 8 – "Lilo & Stitch"
Dress as Lilo or Stitch, or wear your best (school-appropriate) beach attire!
Reminder - Tiger Nation Bonfire @ 6 p.m. (Versailles City Park)
Thursday, October 9 – "Theme Thursday"
Become your favorite Disney, Marvel, or Pixar character!
Friday, October 10 – "Black & Gold Day"
Show your Tiger pride by wearing Black & Gold!
Friday Events:
- Homecoming Assembly (students only)
- Parade @ 2:30 p.m.
- Game @ 7:00 p.m. (Coronation at halftime)
- Homecoming Dance (after the game for HS students only)
Parade Route:
Parade will leave from behind the HS and go on HWY 52 in front of the MS & Elementary, then up around the square, then come back to the school (subject to change with road construction).
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Katy Trail Community Health’s Dental Bus will be at the Morgan County R-II main campus in Versailles from October 28 – November 21 to provide dental care for students in grades K-12. The services provided will include the following: Cleanings, X-rays, preventative and restorative work.
Parents can sign up for services to be provided at their student’s school here:
Have questions? Call (573) 378-2351 ext. 1278
Or email TORourke@katyhealth.org
This is a reason to smile—sign up today!
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If your student needs to have their school picture taken or taken again, picture retakes have been scheduled.
Little Tigers Early Learning Center - October 8
Versailles Middle School - October 8
Versailles High School - October 8
Versailles Elementary - October 22
Questions?
Contact Wagner Portrait Group at (314) 567-5900.
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IMPORTANT EVENTS - OCTOBER 2025
Monday, September 29:
- District - No School Monday
- VES - Teacher Workshop Day
- VMS/VHS - MS/HS Student Progress Conferences
Thursday, October 2:
- District - National Custodian Appreciation Day
Friday, October 3:
- District - Early Dismissal @ 12PM
- VHS - NO ECC
- VHS - Community Service Day
Sunday, October 5:
- District - Start of National Fire Prevention Week
- District - World Teachers Day
Monday, October 6:
- District - No School Monday
- District - National Coaches Day
- District - National Instructional Coaches Day
Wednesday, October 8:
- LTELC/VMS/VHS - Picture Retake Day for Little Tigers, Versailles Middle School, & Versailles High School
- VHS - FFA - Area VIII Greenhand Leadership Conference (Eldon HS)
- Community - Hunter's Education Class @ 6PM (Elementary Cafeterial)
- Community - Tiger Nation Bonfire @ 6PM (City Park)
Thursday, October 9:
Friday, October 10:
- District - Homecoming
- VHS - College/Career Fair @ 9AM
- VHS - Homecoming Parade @ 2:30PM
- VHS - Homecoming Game @ 7PM (HOME) - Tigers vs. Windsor Greyhounds
Saturday, October 11:
- Community - Bank of Versailles Kickball Tournament raising funds for MCR2 Athletics
- VHS - FFA BBQ @ 4:30PM (HS Commons)
Monday, October 13:
- District - No School Monday
- District - Start of National School Lunch Week
Thursday, October 16:
- District - National Boss's Day
- District - District Faculty/Staff Flu Clinic @ 6:30AM
- District - Board of Education Meeting @ 6:00PM
Friday, October 17:
- VES - Elementary Tiger Awards
- VMS - MS Dance @ 3:30PM
- VHS - Senior Night (Band, Cheer, Cross Country, Football, & Girls Golf)
Saurday, October 18:
Sunday, October 19:
- VHS - Fall Choir Concert (PAC) @ 3PM
Monday, October 20:
- No School Monday
- District - Start of National School Bus Safety Week
- VMS/VHS - Teacher Workshop Day
- LTELC/VES - Elementary Student Progress Conferences
Wednesday, October 22:
- VES - Versailles Elementary Picture Retake Day
Thursday, October 23:
- VMS - Winter Sports Parent Meeting (MS Gym) @ 5:45PM
- VHS - FFA October Meeting - Hayride & Bonfire @ 6PM (Location TBA)
Monday, October 27:
Tuesday, October 28:
- VHS - National FFA Convention Week
- District - National First Responders Day
Thursday, October 30:
Friday, October 31:
- VHS - NO ECC
- VHS - JAG Blood Drive @ 9AM
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Mrs. Hancock’s preschool class continued their apple unit this week with a fun taste test! Students sampled a variety of apple treats, including:
- Apple Chips
- Apple Butter
- Apple Cider
- Apples with Caramel
- Apple Pie
After each taste, they decided whether they liked or disliked the item and recorded it on their worksheets.
The class also enjoyed the book All About Apples before getting hands-on practice creating their own applie pie! Each student prepared their very own mini apple pie in the classroom, which was baked in the Little Tigers kitchen. Of course, the best part was tasting their pies and deciding if apple pie made it onto their “like” list.
What a sweet way to learn about apples!
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Patrick Wood, who currently serves as the Manager of Communications for Co-Mo Connect in Tipton, MO, is an award-winning storyteller, author, illustrator, and graduate of the Morgan County R-II School District. His passion for creativity and communication has carried him from the classroom to a successful career, where he continues to inspire others through both his professional work and personal projects.
Most recently, Patrick authored and illustrated a children’s book focused on electric safety—combining his artistic talents with an important educational message. He visited our Little Tigers Early Learning Center (LTELC) to share the story with preschool students, engaging them with his illustrations and storytelling. It was a full-circle moment for our district, as an alum returned to encourage the next generation of learners with both his words and his art.
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Missouri Retired Teachers Association is an association of retired teachers whose purpose is to promote the welfare of all retired school employees with a constant interest in supporting those who are currently in the public schools. MRTA is a tax-exempt organization for raising funds to carry out certain charitable, educational, scientific and literary purposes of the MRTA. This year MRTA-F in Region 7 is giving six $500 classroom grants to teachers and one grant awarded to a support person on staff. MRTA is awarding grants in fourteen regions of the state amounting to $49.000. MRTA members proudly raise this money themselves.
This year Elizabeth Whiston, an ECSE teacher at Little Tigers Early Learning Center in the Morgan Co. R-II School district, is one of six teachers receiving the MRTA's Region 7 classroom grants. Elizabeth's grant was about "Improving Communication Skills and Fostering Academic Readingness." It is a project designed and centered around hands-on learning, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and the development of the love of reading.
On Friday, August 29, Region 7 MRTA representatives traveled to Gravois Mills to present the grant at Little Tigers Early Learning Center.
Congratulations Elizabeth Whiston!!
Picture (From left to right):
Linda Orscheln, Georgia White, Joyce Gunn, Darlene Reuter, Elizabeth Whiston, Martin White and Joan Bosh.
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Students in Mr. Wilson’s, Mrs. White’s, and Mrs. Sidebottom’s 5th grade classes recently stepped back in time to experience life on the Oregon Trail!
This hands-on lesson gave students the opportunity to learn about the challenges pioneers faced as they prepared for their journey westward—making decisions about supplies, money management, and survival strategies along the way.
To make the experience even more special, MCR2 Superintendent of Schools Dr. Bryan Pettengill and Versailles High School senior Cash Boicourt joined in the fun as the “general store managers,” helping students purchase goods for their journey.
This interactive activity brought history to life while teaching teamwork, problem-solving, and the importance of thoughtful decision-making. Great job to our 5th graders for embracing the adventure!
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Versailles Elementary faculty and staff held their Launch Into Literacy Reading Night on Tuesday, September 23. The evening was well-attended. Families enjoyed a night of books, games, Title I info, snacks, and so much more!
Thank you to everyone who attended!
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Our fifth-grade team teachers recently launched the very first Versailles Elementary Student Council!
The council includes one representative from each fourth- and fifth-grade classroom. These students will help lead school projects, assist with events throughout the year, and give a voice to the elementary student body.
The Student Council has:
- Planned activities for Red Ribbon Week
- Considered possible 1st Quarter Step rewards
- Discussed ways to serve during the Veterans Day Celebration
- Talked about helping with ball cart duties, assisting younger students with hammocks at recess, and welcoming new students as ambassadors
They also recently held a Pajama Day to raise funds for a local family in need. Thanks to the donations given in order to wear pajamas, the Student Council raised $2,500.
Thank you to all who donated!
Student council members were selected through an application process and chosen by a panel of faculty and staff. Each member was selected for demonstrating leadership, a positive attitude, and kindness.
The 5th Grade Team Teachers are:
Hannah Sidebottom
Stephanie Underwood
Katelynn White
Kaden Wilson
Patricia Yensel
The Student Council representatives are:
Carlee Z.
Brooklynn A.
Klayre M.
Rae’Onna U.
Kalea B.
Molly H.
Avery B.
Kynley S.
Lyla R.
Parker W.
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Get ready to show off those dance moves!
Friday, October 17th in the MS Gym
3:30PM–5:00PM (must have a ride by 5:00PM)
Tickets: $3.00
On sale Oct. 1 – Oct. 15, in the lobby, no sales after October 15th.
Tickets Available before school & during Tiger Time
❌No tickets sales on Oct. 16 or 17!
What to Know:
Students stay after school — no going home & returning.
Drop your stuff in your locker, grab your ticket, and line up in the 8th grade hall!
Tickets will be handed out during the 8th hour the day of the dance.
Wear what you wore to school (everyday clothes or dress up — school dress code applies). There will be no changing in the bathrooms before the dance.
No student leaves early unless a parent comes to the door and meets with the admin on duty.
No activity bus — rides must be here at 5:00 PM!
Who can’t attend?
Students with ISS or OSS that week of the dance (refunds will be given)
Students arriving after 9:00 AM on the day of the dance day without an approved excuse
Students absent the day of the dance
Extras!
🍿 A concession stand with candy and soda will be available for purchase
📸 Picture booth provided by PTO $1.00 (photos will be delivered later!)
Let’s make it a night to remember!
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Mrs. Griggs and her 8th grade Tiger Time students created "Get to Know You One-Pagers" the first week of school.
This is a fun and creative way to share who students are through both words and visuals. Students were to represent key elements using sketches, quotes, words, and symbols.
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Middle School & High School families — join us Monday, September 29 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM for our Student Progress Conferences!
- Meet with teachers
- Learn about your student’s academic progress
- Ask questions
- Partner with us to support student success!
We encourage both parents and students to attend — let’s work together to help every student succeed. We can't wait for you to join us!
Please Note: LTELC and Elementary Student Progress Conferences will be held October 20.
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The Versailles High School Beta Club is raising funds to support families of students affected by recent tragedies. Next week, high school students can participate by wearing a school-appropriate hat.
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Donate $4 to wear your hat all week
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Donate $1 per day to wear your hat for a single day
All proceeds will go directly to help impacted families. Thank you for your support!
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We’re excited to announce that October 3rd is our 3rd Annual VHS Community Service Day! Every VHS student will take part in service projects happening throughout the district and right here on campus. Whether it’s helping in local parks, helping the city prepare for the Apple Festival, or working on campus beautification, our students will be out in the community making a real impact.
Students, details such as project assignments and transportation will be posted in the commons and the hallways in the next few days. Attendance for this day will be counted the same as an in-class day. Students should dress for the activity they'll be participating in. If they'll be working outside and it's warm, shorts and comfortable clothes are perfectly appropriate.
This event is designed to help students grow as responsible citizens, understand the value of giving back, and experience the importance of civic engagement firsthand. It’s a powerful opportunity for them to step outside the classroom and learn through meaningful action.
Mr. Ryan Marriott
Versailles High School Principal
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Join our MS and HS on Monday, September 29 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM for our Student Progress Conferences!
- Meet with teachers
- Learn about your student’s academic progress
- Ask questions
- Partner with us to support student success!
We encourage both parents and students to attend — let’s work together to help every student succeed. We can't wait for you to join us!
Please Note: LTELC and Elementary Student Progress Conferences will be held October 20.
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A Senior Financial Aid Meeting will take place on Monday, September 29 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the PAC. Come learn about the FAFSA application process, scholarships, and more! |
You are invited to the Versailles FFA BBQ to be held at the Versailles High School Commons on Saturday, October 11 from 4:30PM to 7:00PM. FFA BBQ tickets will be available starting tomorrow (09/16). They will be sent home with our FFA students. Adults are $12 and kids under 10 are $6. Ticket prices will increase at the door to $15! See an FFA student today for more information or to purchase your tickets. Or, email Miss Looten, FFA Advisor, at lootenm@versaillestigers.org if you are not able to get in contact with an FFA student.
Dine in or carry out available.
Thank you for supporting our FFA program!
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The Versailles High School National Honor Society (NHS) is hosting a Tiger Car Wash — and you're invited to roll in and support a great cause!
Location: Veracruz Mexican Restaurant, 309 MO-HWY 5
Date: Saturday, October 11, 2025
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Fresh Wash – $10
Add-on Services:
• Tire Cleaning – $4
• Window Cleaning – $4
Another way to donate: Donate for a chance to SOAK A STUDENT and make a splash for NHS!
Payment Options: Cash, card, or checks payable to Morgan County R-II School District (MCR2).
All proceeds benefit the Versailles NHS chapter. Thank you for supporting our students and their pursuit of academic excellence and service!
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Go the extra yard! Give blood with Community Blood Center of the Ozarks (CBCO) at the Versailles High School blood drive and receive a FREE KC CHIEFS T-shirt (for all donors, while supplies last). Enter to win TWO Chiefs game tickets and parking pass. Appointments are strongly encouraged. Eat tasty snacks and save lives!
Location: Versailles High School PAC Lobby
Date: Friday, October 31, 2025
Time: 9:00AM to 3:00PM
The blood drive is supported by the VHS Jobs for America's Graduates (JAG) program and CBCO.
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The Versailles Girls Cross Country team kicked off their season with a 1st place finish as a team at the Jim Marshall Invitational in Jefferson City, Missouri. |
Congratulations to the 2024-2025 Versailles High School Lady Tiger Softball team who were recognized as a 2024-2025 Easton/NFCA Team for being one of the top 50 teams in the nation for academics based on their combined GPA.
Also, congratulations to the following high school softball players who received All-American Scholar Athlete honors from Easton/NFCA:
Lilly Guinnip
Kenzirae Witt
Ella Pryor
Amanda Vera
Maddie Viebrock
Sarah Bland
Addy Jones
Lillian Whitfield
Paityn Pritchett
Dakota Moore
Ragen Wilson
Stella Zolecki
Frankie Shewmaker (not pictured)
Ary Jones (not pictured)
Maddy Rayl (not pictured)
These recognitions are both national recognitions. Congratulations to all!
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Sports passes are now available for purchase at the Versailles High School Activities Office.
Call (573) 569-7028 for more information or email our Athletic Director, Aaron Allen at allena@versaillestigers.org.
Please note that MSHSAA events such as a district, sectional, or the state series event rae not included in the MCR2 sports pass packages listed above.
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by Sarah Bland, Communications Department Student Intern
Throughout each athletic season, we’ll be spotlighting a standout athlete from every sport, as nominated by a coach in their sport. We look forward to sharing their stories and celebrating their achievements with you!
Cash Boicourt is a senior on the varsity football team and was nominated by Coach Stantorf for his hard work, dedication, adaptability in the face of this season’s challenges, and strong leadership skills.
This season, Cash is focused on helping the team secure a win. His favorite part about playing football is the physical contact during games. In his own words: “Football is the only sport where the whole point of the game is to hit people.”
Something people might not know about Cash is that he has placed first in his fantasy football league three years in a row.
Looking ahead, Cash plans to join the military, specifically he mentioned the United States Marine Corps.
His message to the underclassmen is simple: “Play football.” Cash wants to see the program grow and succeed, and that starts with increasing player numbers in the seasons to come.
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7th grade Lady Tiger Volleyball team recently placed 2nd in the Osage Volleyball Tournament! Congratulations ladies! |
Girls golf officially began at Versailles High School in the 2022–2023 school year. Did you know that girls golf athlete and senior, Myli Turner, has the distinction of being the first student to play girls golf from 9th through 12th grade. Currently a senior, Myli plans to attend college after graduation with the goal of becoming a school librarian. |
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Board-approved calendar outlining the school year's start and end dates, instructional days, teacher workshop days, Student Progress Conferences, and Snow Make-Up Days. |
A daily events calendar that includes district-wide and building-specific events, along with reported activity and athletic events. |
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