This is part of a series of new teachers in USD 234 School District, Fort Scott. There are 22 new teachers and two new administrators in the district.
School starts for students on August 16.
There are five campuses in the district:
- Fort Scott Preschool Center (serving pre-kindergarten students ages 3+)
- Winfield Scott Elementary School (serving kindergarten through through second-graderade students)
- Eugene Ware Elementary School (serving third through fifth-grade students)
- Fort Scott Middle School (serving sixth through eighth-grade students)
- Fort Scott High School (serving ninth through twelfth-grade students)
The district has nearly two thousand students enrolled within the district and over 350+ staff members, according to its website.
Travis Wilcoxen, 31, is a new 7th Grade Special Education Teacher, at Fort Scott Middle School.
He has a bachelor’s degree from Ozark Christian College and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Special Education.
This is his first year teaching.
“My family and I are active members of Community Christian Church, where I currently serve on the Mission’s Committee. I also serve on the board for the Bourbon County Coalition.”
His wife, Jenni, and he have been married for nine years and have two children. Jude, 6, and Nora, almost 4 years old. They also have a Golden Retriever dog, Charles (Charlie) Barkley.
What is the best thing about being an educator?
“I don’t know yet. I can tell you that I am most excited to work with the students, their parents, and the other 7th-grade teachers. My goal is that my students come to school excited and ready to work hard.”
What is a challenge?
“I have no teaching experience to pull from. I know that this year will be full of learning for me as well. Balancing teaching, studying for my master’s, and still being a present husband and father will not be easy. Even so, bring it on!”
Nicky Hastings is the new Fort Scott High School Special Education Teacher.
She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Pittsburg State University and also a Master’s Degree in Special Education from Pittsburg State University.
She has 23 years experience in education.
“I have been married to Don for 34 years and have two daughters and a son and have eight grandchildren.
“The best thing about being an educator is watching the success of my students in life,” she said.
“My challenge is always trying to find the most useful way to connect to my students so I can help them in the best way so they will succeed.”