Monthly Archives: November 2025

Fort Scott, Government, Schools

Minutes of the USD234 Board of Education Meeting New Release on November 10

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Unified School District 234

424 South Main

Fort Scott, KS 66701-2697

www.usd234.org

620-223-0800   Fax 620-223-2760

 

DESTRY BROWN                                                                                                                                                  

Superintendent                                                                                                                                            

 

 

 

 

BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING

NEWS RELEASE

Monday, November 10, 2025

 

Members of the USD 234 Board of Education met at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, November 10, 2025, for their regular monthly meeting at Fort Scott Middle School

 

President David Stewart opened the meeting.

 

The board approved the official agenda, and the consent agenda as follows:

Board Minutes

10-13-25

Financials – Cash Flow Report

Check Register

Payroll – October 20, 2025 – $1,826,376.48

Activity Funds Accounts

USD 234 Gifts

Resolution 25-13 Add Bank Signers

FCA Fundraising Application

Orchestra Fundraising Application

Choir Fundraising Application

 

DJ Brown, Middle School Principal, and a couple from his team were able to present to the Board. Travis Wilcoxen, SPED teacher, gave a report about Special Olympics. Track & Field, Basketball, Bowling, and Corn hole are a few of the events that the students have been participating in. Tracy Homan, Language Arts Teacher, is working with Student council and Leadership Class students. They are focusing on creating a positive school culture where students enjoy coming to school. They also will be attending Leadership and Team Building at Greenbush throughout the year. Matt Harris, Assistant Principal, explained about the advisory period schedule. This is designed to specifically help students in ELA, Math, Social Studies, and Science. The teachers can work directly with students on skills that will help keep them on grade level. They have seen great growth with this program. Mr. Brown informed on the Veteran’s Day program the Middle School will be having on Wednesday. He also explained that a major goal for the school is building relationships between staff and students. The staff is working great together to make sure each student is involved and has someone they can turn to.

 

Assistant Superintendent Terry Mayfield provided information on the completed financial audit and the upcoming KSDE audit. Mr. Mayfield is working on several grants that will help offset some costs with the Preschool and the CTE program.

 

Assistant Superintendent Zach Johnson updated the Board on the Veterans’ Day Assemblies that will be held throughout the district on Tuesday and Wednesday. He also updated on iReady testing and other training that has been taking place.

 

Special Education Director Tonya Barnes praised the SPED team and informed the Board of future planning for transitioning students between buildings.

 

There were none present for public forum.

 

The Board went into an executive session for personnel matters.

 

President David Stewart adjourned the meeting.

 

PERSONNEL REPORT – APPROVED

November 10, 2025

 

RESIGNATIONS/TERMINATIONS/RETIREMENTS:

 

Hazen, Clint – Resignation – Paraprofessional – Eugene Ware

Jackman, Sara – Supplemental Resignation – History Club – High School

Mitchell, Jacqui – Supplemental Resignation – PBIS – Winfield Scott

Pearson, Vanessa – Resignation – Paraprofessional – KRI

 

LEAVE OF ABSENCE:

 

Nation, Laura – LOA – Winfield Scott

 

TRANSFER:

 

Brown, Jodi – Speech Pathologist – .5 to .75

Whitt, Derrick – ISS Supervisor – High School to Alternative School Director

 

EMPLOYMENT:

 

Classified Recommendations for 2025-26 School year:

 

Brown, Khya – Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott

Isaac, Britney – Paraprofessional – High School

Khang, Julianne – Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott

Lail, Brandon – Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott

 

Supplemental Recommendations for the 2025-26 school year:

 

Allen, Brian – History Club – High School

Bowels, Kendall – PBIS – Winfield Scott

Coyan, Paula – Assistant Softball – High School

Hartman, Heather – Assistant Softball – High School

Nelson, Andrew – PBIS – Eugene Ware

Nickelson, Aaron – Assistant Softball – High School

Norris, Danielle – PBIS – Eugene Ware

Whitt, Derrick – Assistant Girl’s Basketball – High School

 

Fort Scott Community College

FROM THE BLEACHERS BY DR. JACK WELCH

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FROM THE BLEACHERS

BY DR. JACK WELCH

Leadership and Design

Whether on the field or in the classroom, success is never accidental. It’s the result of inspired leadership, intentional design, and a shared belief that great things are possible. That’s when the magic happens, programs are reborn, people begin to believe again, and winning becomes more than a goal; it becomes a culture. It is designed.

Over the years of writing From the Bleachers, I’ve had the privilege of serving in many administrative and leadership roles. Each has taught me to be thoughtful about what I write. My columns are never meant to carry hidden messages, but now and then, colleagues or employees have wondered if I was referring to them. The truth is, any article about leadership touches us all in some way, and that’s really the point. Leadership affects everyone.

In my current role as a college president, I have the opportunity to work alongside talented and dedicated people. I’m fortunate to receive great ideas from them, and this week one stood out: leadership and design truly go hand in hand.

Why do programs fall, and how do they rise again? The answer often comes down to two things, leadership and design. Successful programs are built that way. Leadership provides the tools, people, and vision that form the foundation of success. When the right leader combines those tools with energy and expertise, even the most struggling program can come back to life.

One example comes from a Central Texas school district that had only a couple of winning seasons in thirty years. Then, a redesigned administrative approach and new leadership produced twenty winning seasons, eight district titles, and two state final appearances. Later, after a shift in administrative and board philosophy, the program cycled through four head coaches in six years and posted a record of 18–43, five straight losing seasons.

This school year, the district welcomed a new superintendent and several newly elected board members, marking the beginning of a redesigned philosophy and a fresh direction. One of the superintendent’s first moves was hiring former assistant Rodney Southern, a decision grounded in trust, alignment, and leadership. With one regular-season game remaining, the team stands at 7–2 and has earned a spot in the state playoffs. The stadium is full again, and the community’s excitement is unmistakable.

In addition, during the 2024–25 school year, the district faced a failed bond election. Under this new administration, transparent communication and a clear design for the district were shared with the community. The result: the bond has now passed.

This is what happens when leadership and design come together, confidence is restored, momentum builds, and communities move forward.

Thought for the Week, “Great leaders don’t just manage, they design. They build systems, empower the right people, and provide the tools for success.” Lindsay Hill, Fort Scott Community College Foundation Director

 Dr. Jack Welch serves as President of Fort Scott Community College. With a career spanning professional sports, public education, and rural community development, he brings a servant-leader mindset and a passion for building trust-driven cultures that empower people to thrive in the classroom, on the field, and in life. He is also the author of Foundations of Coaching: The Total Coaching Manual.

Area News, Government

K-146 to be closed Nov. 18 east of Walnut

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K146 Walnut

K-146 to be closed Nov. 18 east of Walnut

WALNUT – K-146 east of Walnut will be closed on Tuesday, Nov. 18, so a Kansas Department of Transportation crew can replace a drainage pipe under the highway.

The highway is expected to be closed just for the day, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., conditions permitting. The 24-inch pipe is located 4 miles west of the K-3 and K-146 junction in Crawford County. KDOT will close K-146 from the east city limits of Walnut to K-3.

KDOT urges motorists to stay alert and follow posted signs in all work zones. Check KDOT’s updated traveler information website, www.kandrive.gov, for more highway condition and construction details. For updates on construction projects in southeast Kansas, visit ksdot.gov/southeastnews.

 

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Ad: What FSCC Offers

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Looking for a college that gives you options? At Fort Scott Community College, students can choose from associate degrees in Arts, Science, Applied Science, and General Studies, along with a variety of certificates that lead straight to rewarding careers. Whether you’re interested in healthcare fields like Certified Medication Aide, Nurse Aide, EMT, Home Health Aide, Manicuring, or Phlebotomy, or want to take on a technical challenge with certificates in Ag Technology (John Deere), Construction, Cosmetology, Criminal Justice, Environmental Water Tech, Farm & Ranch Management, Harley-Davidson Technology, Heavy Equipment Operation, HVAC, Masonry, or Welding we’ve got you covered!

But college isn’t just about the classroom. FSCC offers plenty of ways to get involved through music and performance opportunities (band, choir, theater), student clubs and organizations (like Collegiate Farm Bureau, Phi Theta Kappa, SkillsUSA, STEAM Club, FSCC Media Team, and more), and even competitive judging teams in livestock and meat.

If athletics is more your thing, FSCC is home to intercollegiate sports for both men and women. Compete in basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, rodeo, track & field, or cross country, all while building friendships and representing the Greyhounds.

And the best part? We’re still growing. New programs, degrees, certifications, and athletic opportunities are on the horizon! There’s never been a better time to join FSCC!

Fort Scott Community College; where opportunity meets possibility.

Bourbon County

Bourbon County Commission Meeting Agenda: Nov. 10, 2025

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The north wing, east side of the Bourbon County Courthouse.

Bourbon County Commission Agenda Summary Agenda 11.10.25

Meeting Details

Date: Monday, November 10, 2025 Time: 5:30 PM Location: Bourbon County Commission Chambers, 210 S National Ave.

I. Agenda Outline (Page 1)

I. Call Meeting to Order

  • Roll Call
  • Pledge of Allegiance
  • Prayer

II. Approval of Agenda

III. Approval of Minutes (unofficial until approved)

  • Meetings to be approved: 09.22.25, 09.23.25, 09.26.25, 09.29.25, 10.06.25, 10.14.25, 10.20.25, 10.22.25, 10.27.25

IV. Consent Agenda

  • Approval of 10.31.25 Accounts Payable ($161,816.71)
  • Approval of 10.31.25 Payroll ($243,122.51)
  • Approval of 11.07.25 Accounts Payable ($88,471.66)

V. Public Comments for Items Not on The Agenda

VI. Old Business

  • Sheriff Lease for Vehicles
  • 2026 Benefits
  • AP & Payroll approvals
  • Sanitation Discussion
  • Elevator Discussion
  • Stop Sign removal north & southbound 205th & Overbrook
  • 108 W 2nd Transition
  • Emerson Payroll
  • Noise Resolution
  • Bitcoin
  • Longevity

VII. New Business

  • Letter of Support Tri-Valley
  • Road Closure Application Patricia Daniels
  • HR Assistant
  • Evotech
  • Baker Tilly
  • Schwab-Eaton Engineering Services Agreement – Dustin Hall/Kenny Allen

VIII. Department Updates

IX. Build Agenda for following meeting

X. Commission Comments

XI. Adjournment

II. Detailed Information Packet Summary

Executive Sessions and Future Agenda Items (Page 2)

  • Executive Sessions: Motions may be made to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel, consultation with an attorney, employer/employee negotiations, financial affairs or trade secrets, preliminary discussion of acquisition of real estate, or matters relating to security measures.
  • Future Agenda Items:
    • Upcoming Dates: Credit Card Policy (11/17/25), 190th Street Benefit District (11/24/25, 12/01/25, 12/08/25).
    • General Future: Economic Development, Juvenile Detention Contract (Spring 2026), Benefits Committee Letters, Elm Creek Quarry, Phone System.

Accounts Payable and Payroll Details (Pages 3-22)

The detailed Open Invoices By Department Summary provides the specifics behind the 10.31.25 Accounts Payable and Payroll items listed on the Consent Agenda.

Fund / Department Invoice Count Total Amount Highlights (Page)
GENERAL FUND (Non-Departmental) 12 $12,001.34 Primarily automatic payroll invoices to BOURBON COUNTY-IRS and KPERS. (Page 3)
APPRAISERS (Fund 016) 8 $1,802.56 Includes Verizon Wireless and Culligan of Joplin water refill charges. (Pages 3-4)
COUNTY TREASURER MOTOR FUND (Fund 052) 8 $1,102.07 Includes mileage for new Treasurer training and Culligan water refill. (Page 4)
ELECTION (Fund 062) 5 $395.67 All automatic payroll-related invoices. (Page 4)
EMPLOYEE BENEFIT (Fund 064) 74 $36,937.96 Includes monthly fee to Health Equity and numerous payroll tax/KPERS filings. One KPERS entry noted an adjustment needed as the deduction was taking 9.9 when it should be 8.9. (Pages 4-7)
LANDFILL (Fund 108) 11 $8,664.34 Includes Evergy electric service, Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) fees to Allen County, copy paper, oil, and maintenance for installing window glass on a vehicle. (Pages 7-8)
COUNTY SHERIFF/CORRECTIONAL (Fund 120) N/A N/A Invoices cover auto parts (O’Reilly Auto Parts), tire repair, a late fee, inmate housing (Greene County Sheriff’s Office), and inmate medical care (Girard Medical Center, Mercy Hospital Pittsburg Inc., Community Health Center of SEK). (Pages 8-10)
COUNTY CLERK (Dept 02) 2 $125.97 Includes copy paper, adjusted for a credit refund. (Page 13)
COUNTY REGISTER OF DEEDS (Dept 05) 1 $283.39 For internal hard drive and batteries. (Page 13)
DISTRICT COURT (Dept 10) 8 $11,554.42 Includes legal services and attorney contracts for November 2025. (Page 14)
COURTHOUSE GENERAL (Dept 43) 2 $64.86 Covers street lights and gas transport costs. (Page 19)
ROAD & BRIDGE SALES TAX FUND (Fund 222) 5 $8,185.89 Includes engine parts, sand and haul, backpack sprayers, porta potty rental, and fire extinguisher inspection. (Page 21)
ADDICTION SETTLEMENT FUND (Fund 387) 1 $396.20 Mileage reimbursement for Path of Ease Association. (Page 22)

Obituary

Obituary of Jane Ray Clements

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Jane Ray Clements, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on November 6, 2025, at the age of 78 in Joplin, MO, due to complications from dementia. Born on October 1, 1947, in Kansas City, MO, Jane’s life was marked by her infectious humor, boundless generosity, and the thoughtful care she extended to everyone around her.

Jane grew up in Ft. Scott, KS, and later moved to Pittsburg, KS. She worked at Consumer’s until its closure. She continued to serve her community through retail work and home health care until her well-deserved retirement.

Family was the cornerstone of Jane’s world. She was preceded in death by her loving mother, Maxine McMichael, her grandfather who helped raise her, R.C. Smith, and her brother, Donny Tully. Her legacy lives on through her devoted husband, Terry Clements, and her four children, Ricky Clements, Rachel Hubbard, Michelle Dietz (Jerrod), and Chris Clements (fiancé Shannon). Jane’s joy was multiplied by her four grandchildren, Jessie and Casey Dietz, Addison, and Grant Clements, who will forever cherish the memories created with their beloved grandmother.

Jane’s favorite moments were those spent surrounded by her family, whether it was a quiet evening at home or a lively family gathering. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she never missed an opportunity to attend their school events, celebrate their achievements, or simply enjoy their company.

An animal lover at heart, Jane’s pets, Tootsie and Suzy, were her constant companions. They brought her immense comfort and happiness, especially in her later years. Jane’s love for animals was just one of the many ways she showed her gentle and caring nature.

Those who knew Jane will remember her for her quick wit and the laughter she brought to every occasion. Her generosity knew no bounds, as she was always the first to offer help or a kind word to those in need. Jane’s thoughtfulness was evident in the way she remembered birthdays, anniversaries, and important milestones, always making her loved ones feel special and valued.

As we bid farewell to Jane Ray Clements, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a heart that deeply touched all who knew her. Her spirit, characterized by humor, generosity, and thoughtfulness, will continue to inspire and guide us. Jane’s memory will be held in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to experience her love and kindness.

There will be a memorial visitation from 5:00 until 7:00 PM Wednesday, November 12th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  Memorials are suggested to the S.E.K. Humane Society and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.

Obituary

Obituary of Anthony “Tony” Wayne Ogle

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Anthony “Tony” Wayne Ogle, a cherished soul known for his kind heart and unwavering spirit, passed away in his hometown of Fort Scott, Kansas, on November 4, 2025, at the age of 56. Born on February 28, 1969, to the late Burton Wayne Ogle and Daisy Ruth Duerson Ogle, Tony’s life was a testament to the values of love, dedication, and joy that he inherited from his beloved parents.

Tony was a proud graduate of Fort Scott High School, class of 1987. His pursuit of knowledge and passion for helping others led him to continue his education at Pittsburg State University, where he honed his skills and prepared for a life of service and community involvement. His professional journey was marked by his commitment to the local school district, USD 234, where he made significant contributions to the educational landscape. His work ethic and dedication also shone brightly during his time with Coke and Superior, where he was not just an employee but a friend and mentor to many.

A devoted fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and the Royals, Tony’s enthusiasm for sports was infectious. He found joy in the roar of the crowd and the thrill of the game. His love for dirt track racing and bowling also occupied much of his leisure time, where he was not just a spectator but an active participant, sharing his passion with friends and family alike.

Those who knew Tony will remember him as the embodiment of kindness. His gentle demeanor, warm smile, and ability to make anyone feel valued left a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of crossing his path. Tony’s legacy is not merely in the roles he played or the achievements he accomplished, but in the countless lives he touched with his generous spirit and compassionate nature.

As we bid farewell to Anthony “Tony” Wayne Ogle, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a journey completed with grace. His memory will be cherished and kept alive in the stories shared, the laughter remembered, and the profound impact he had on his community and beyond. Tony’s presence will be deeply missed, yet his spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Rev. Dusty Drake will conduct services at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 12th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Burial will follow in Memory Gardens Cemetery, Fort Scott. Memorials are suggested to the Tony Ogle Scholarship Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S Main St, Fort Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Fort Scott, Youth

Mesa Casper Will Compete at Cross Country National Championship

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Submitted photo.
2024 Fort Scott High School Graduate, Mesa Casper, will compete with her collegiate team, the Spires, of the University of Saint Mary in Leavenworth at the NAIA Cross Country National Championships in Tallahassee, FL on Friday, November 21st.  The team clenched their national qualification with a close runner up finish at the KCAC Championships on November 8th on their home course in Leavenworth.
Additionally, Casper was named the KCAC Champion of Character for her team at the KCAC Conference Championships.
“The KCAC (Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference) Champions of Character awards recognize student-athletes and teams who best represent the NAIA Champions of Character Program’s mission. These awards honor individuals and groups that exemplify the program’s five core values: integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership. The awards are presented to those who demonstrate these values both on and off the field.”
Casper is in her sophomore year at the University of Saint Mary where she is majoring in Nursing and competes on the Cross Country and Track teams.  She was a 6 time 4A State Qualifier in Cross Country and Track as a Tiger Runner.
Submitted photo.
Area News, Entertainment, History

Roosevelt Living History Performance in Pittsburg on November 20

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Step Back in Time with Teddy Roosevelt:

Stilwell Heritage and Education Foundation Presents Dinner with Teddy Roosevelt – November 20, 2025

Pittsburg, KS – The Stilwell Heritage and Education Foundation invites the community to an evening with America’s most dynamic president, Theodore Roosevelt, brought vividly to life through a captivating living-history performance on Wednesday, November 20, 2025, in the Timmons Ballroom at the Stilwell Hotel, 707 N. Broadway, Pittsburg, Kansas.

This engaging event features nationally recognized Teddy Roosevelt reenactor Joe Wiegand, who embodies the 26th president’s larger-than-life personality—his grit, humor, and vision that shaped a nation. Performing as Theodore Roosevelt, Wiegand will share stories from Roosevelt’s lifetime. From battling asthma and taking boxing lessons as a young boy to challenging special interests as President of the United States, Wiegand brings Theodore Roosevelt to life with energy, intelligence, and wit reminiscent of the original. Following a 45-minute presentation, he will take questions from the audience as Teddy Roosevelt.

“We’re thrilled to bring this kind of living history to Stilwell,” said Foundation President Lyndon Lawson. “It’s a chance for families, students, and history lovers to connect with the past in a way that feels alive and relevant today. It’s as if we are able to step back in time to when Teddy Roosevelt spoke at the Hotel Stilwell.”

Proceeds from the event will support the Stilwell Heritage and Education Foundation’s ongoing efforts to preserve the historic building, renovate the apartments for senior and low-income housing, and provide educational programming for the community.

Tickets are on sale now for $45.00 each (which includes dinner, drink, and dessert). Doors and the silent auction will open at 5:30 p.m. Meet-and-Greet tickets can be purchased for an additional $20.00; the VIP Meet-and-Greet will begin at 5:30 p.m. Dinner and the program will begin at 6:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at www.givebutter.com/stilwelltrevent or by calling the Hotel Stilwell. Seating is limited, so advance purchase is strongly encouraged.

Join us for a night of inspiration, laughter, and history as President Roosevelt himself takes the stage and reminds us to “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.”

Event sponsored by Explore Crawford County, Pittsburg State University, and the Stilwell Heritage and Education Foundation.

Opinion

A Daughter Remembers Veterans by Carolyn Tucker

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Keys to the Kingdom By Carolyn Tucker

A Daughter Remembers Veterans

I can’t help it. I love veterans! I’ve been known to approach a stranger wearing a military cap, shake his hand and say, “Thank you, I appreciate your service.” I also can’t help the tears that well up in my eyes when I do this. My dad’s heroic military stories from WWII are what awakened my heart to love, honor, and respect veterans. I can’t help it. I love veterans! They are my heroes and deserve my deepest gratitude and respect.

Married in 1943, my parents were newlyweds when Dad was drafted into the Army in 1944. Although some men were desperate to see action and signed up, Dad always made it clear (to me) that he was drafted. He was willing to go to war, but it sure wasn’t on his wishlist. But once his feet hit the Rhineland in Central Europe, he was in it to win it.

Dad was in General Patton’s 90th Infantry Division, Third Army, Company B, which was used as a spearhead. These troops were sent out to a point, fighting as they advanced. Then they were to hold that position while other regiments filled in the gaps. When “Blood & Guts” Patton visited the 90th on the battlefield in Germany, he told them that although he knew they were tired, it was necessary for them to continue to fight. Patton’s tanks and troops became legendary for their success. All of our veterans are courageous and exemplary examples of a selfless life.

No doubt about it, the American soldier is ingenious. Dad said that in the winter, when the soldiers could not capture a town in which to sleep, they would make three large snowballs or “snow rolls”. Two of them were placed on each side, with the third on the windward end and then lined with pine tree branches.

Dad was given charge of a (Polish or Czech) 14-year-old boy that had been freed as a prisoner and stayed on with the troops. The kid, who could fluently speak four languages  (but not English), desperately wanted to fight the Germans because they had killed his parents. One night Dad was in a foxhole and, after four hours of sleep, was to relieve the point man in the foxhole ahead of him. The boy was sent to awaken Dad, so he began  excitedly yelling something other than English as he grabbed Dad’s leg to awaken him. Greatly startled and thinking the Germans had come upon him, Dad grabbed for his M-1  rifle. Not being able to find the rifle immediately in the dark saved the boy’s life! After this near-fatal incident, I happen to know for a fact that Dad gave very emphatic instructions that he was to never ever to be awakened by that boy again!

Unlike Audie Murphy, America’s most-decorated WWII soldier, Dad didn’t write an autobiography of his two-year stint on the front lines. But he could have. If I initiated the subject, he would talk about the War. But it was never something he bragged about. Rather, he wept when he recounted the details of the horrific battle in the village of Morhausen, Germany which was full of Hitler’s SS troopers. That is the night battle engagement in which he was awarded the bronze star.

I can’t help it, I love our U.S. veterans. We shall, we must, continue to honor and respect our remarkably brave men and women who serve in the military.

The Key: Let us celebrate our heroic American veterans who have fought for freedom and liberty for all.