💛 Please help us welcome Duke Newsted to the SR3 Family!
This fall marks an exciting new chapter for Duke. As he prepares for his September wedding, he's also beginning a new role at SR3 as a Paraprofessional, Assistant Varsity Wrestling Coach, and Assistant Middle School Track Coach.
After working in the Park Hill School District, Duke says Savannah immediately felt like home and offered the opportunity to continue doing what he loves—supporting students and coaching young athletes.
When asked what inspires him most, Duke didn't hesitate:
"Just seeing my students and athletes' faces light up after they have finally figured something out they didn't think they could do."
Outside of school, you'll likely find him hunting, fishing, cheering on college wrestling, or spending time with his fiancée, Kaitlynn, and their families as they prepare for their wedding this fall.
Welcome to SR3, Duke! We're excited to have you on the team and wish you all the best as you begin this exciting new season. 💛🖤
#SR3Family #WeAreSR3
This fall marks an exciting new chapter for Duke. As he prepares for his September wedding, he's also beginning a new role at SR3 as a Paraprofessional, Assistant Varsity Wrestling Coach, and Assistant Middle School Track Coach.
After working in the Park Hill School District, Duke says Savannah immediately felt like home and offered the opportunity to continue doing what he loves—supporting students and coaching young athletes.
When asked what inspires him most, Duke didn't hesitate:
"Just seeing my students and athletes' faces light up after they have finally figured something out they didn't think they could do."
Outside of school, you'll likely find him hunting, fishing, cheering on college wrestling, or spending time with his fiancée, Kaitlynn, and their families as they prepare for their wedding this fall.
Welcome to SR3, Duke! We're excited to have you on the team and wish you all the best as you begin this exciting new season. 💛🖤
#SR3Family #WeAreSR3
💛 Please help us welcome Ashley Lippold to the SR3 Family!
Ashley joins John Glenn Elementary as our new 2nd Grade Teacher, bringing 20 years of teaching experience and a passion for helping students grow into confident problem-solvers.
After teaching third grade in St. Joseph, Ashley was drawn to Savannah because of its strong sense of community and collaborative spirit.
"Joining SR3 felt like a great opportunity to contribute my experience, continue developing professionally, and be part of a team that values collaboration, commitment, and continuous improvement."
For Ashley, this move is a true family adventure. She and her husband, Garrett, are excited to become part of the SR3 community, and their 9-year-old twins, Cruz and Jett, will be joining John Glenn as fourth graders this fall.
When she's not in the classroom, Ashley enjoys crafting, decorating for events, spending time by the pool or at the beach, and making memories with her family.
Welcome to SR3, Ashley! We're excited to have you and your family as part of our community. 💛🖤
#SR3Family #WeAreSR3
Ashley joins John Glenn Elementary as our new 2nd Grade Teacher, bringing 20 years of teaching experience and a passion for helping students grow into confident problem-solvers.
After teaching third grade in St. Joseph, Ashley was drawn to Savannah because of its strong sense of community and collaborative spirit.
"Joining SR3 felt like a great opportunity to contribute my experience, continue developing professionally, and be part of a team that values collaboration, commitment, and continuous improvement."
For Ashley, this move is a true family adventure. She and her husband, Garrett, are excited to become part of the SR3 community, and their 9-year-old twins, Cruz and Jett, will be joining John Glenn as fourth graders this fall.
When she's not in the classroom, Ashley enjoys crafting, decorating for events, spending time by the pool or at the beach, and making memories with her family.
Welcome to SR3, Ashley! We're excited to have you and your family as part of our community. 💛🖤
#SR3Family #WeAreSR3
What does Amendment 5 actually say?
There's been a lot of discussion about Amendment 5, but many voters haven't had the opportunity to read the actual language that will appear on the ballot.
Today's graphic includes both the official ballot language and the Missouri Secretary of State's official Fair Ballot Language to help explain what voters will see on the ballot.
Because Missouri's individual income tax is the state's largest source of General Revenue—and General Revenue helps fund public education—Amendment 5 has generated questions about what the proposal could mean for schools.
At this time, the long-term impact on public school funding cannot be known with certainty because implementation would require future legislative action over several years.
Learn more, including our FAQ and links to official resources, at savannahr3.com/mo5.
Savannah R3 is providing factual information from official sources and is not advocating for or against Amendment 5.
There's been a lot of discussion about Amendment 5, but many voters haven't had the opportunity to read the actual language that will appear on the ballot.
Today's graphic includes both the official ballot language and the Missouri Secretary of State's official Fair Ballot Language to help explain what voters will see on the ballot.
Because Missouri's individual income tax is the state's largest source of General Revenue—and General Revenue helps fund public education—Amendment 5 has generated questions about what the proposal could mean for schools.
At this time, the long-term impact on public school funding cannot be known with certainty because implementation would require future legislative action over several years.
Learn more, including our FAQ and links to official resources, at savannahr3.com/mo5.
Savannah R3 is providing factual information from official sources and is not advocating for or against Amendment 5.
🖤💛 Savage Alum Alert! 💛🖤
Some stories have a way of coming full circle.
Just four years after graduating from Savannah High School, Khia Haley is returning home as our newest History Teacher—stepping into the very classroom of the teacher who first inspired her to pursue education.
A proud member of the Class of 2022 and a graduate of Missouri Western State University, Khia credits her former government teacher, Mrs. Ross, with making a lasting impact on her life.
"She has a wonderful way of integrating storytelling into valuable lessons—not only history lessons, but life lessons as well."
Now, following Mrs. Ross's retirement, Khia has the opportunity to carry that legacy forward for the next generation of Savage students.
When asked what brought her back to SR3, her answer was simple:
"This community is wonderful. The people are supportive, caring, and so kind. This place is home!"
We're excited to welcome Khia back to SR3—somehow, we always knew she'd find her way back home.💛🖤
☺️#SR3Family #WeAreSR3
Some stories have a way of coming full circle.
Just four years after graduating from Savannah High School, Khia Haley is returning home as our newest History Teacher—stepping into the very classroom of the teacher who first inspired her to pursue education.
A proud member of the Class of 2022 and a graduate of Missouri Western State University, Khia credits her former government teacher, Mrs. Ross, with making a lasting impact on her life.
"She has a wonderful way of integrating storytelling into valuable lessons—not only history lessons, but life lessons as well."
Now, following Mrs. Ross's retirement, Khia has the opportunity to carry that legacy forward for the next generation of Savage students.
When asked what brought her back to SR3, her answer was simple:
"This community is wonderful. The people are supportive, caring, and so kind. This place is home!"
We're excited to welcome Khia back to SR3—somehow, we always knew she'd find her way back home.💛🖤
☺️#SR3Family #WeAreSR3
Calling all incoming 2nd–8th grade softball players! 🥎
Savannah High School players and coaches are hosting a Youth Softball Camp on Saturday, August 15, from 8:30–10:30 a.m. at the Savannah Spring Sports Complex.
Campers will work on hitting and defensive skills, then cool off with a fun slip-and-slide sliding drill.
The cost is $20 per camper and includes a T-shirt. Please bring a water bottle, any personal softball equipment, and wear shorts with either cleats or tennis shoes.
Register here: http://bit.ly/4yp6Cwh
Registration will also be available the morning of camp. Cash or checks made payable to Savannah Softball will be accepted.
Questions? Email Coach Rebekah Glenn at rebekah.glenn@savannahr3.com.
We’re looking forward to a fun morning of softball with our younger players! #SR3Family #WeAreSR3
Savannah High School players and coaches are hosting a Youth Softball Camp on Saturday, August 15, from 8:30–10:30 a.m. at the Savannah Spring Sports Complex.
Campers will work on hitting and defensive skills, then cool off with a fun slip-and-slide sliding drill.
The cost is $20 per camper and includes a T-shirt. Please bring a water bottle, any personal softball equipment, and wear shorts with either cleats or tennis shoes.
Register here: http://bit.ly/4yp6Cwh
Registration will also be available the morning of camp. Cash or checks made payable to Savannah Softball will be accepted.
Questions? Email Coach Rebekah Glenn at rebekah.glenn@savannahr3.com.
We’re looking forward to a fun morning of softball with our younger players! #SR3Family #WeAreSR3
Does anyone else feel like summer is slipping by? ☀️😅
Whether you're soaking up every last minute or already counting down to the first day of school, we've got you covered!
We've launched a new Back 2 School Page to make it easy to find many of the resources families need before the school year begins, all in one place.
You'll find things like:
📚 School supply lists
🗓️ Important dates and calendars
🚌 Transportation information
📸 First Day of School signs
✈️ Vacation planner
❓Frequently asked questions
...and more!
We'll continue updating the page throughout the summer as new information becomes available, including Online Registration, which opens August 1.
📌 Bookmark the page now and check back often—we'll keep adding resources to help your family get ready for a great school year!
🔗 https://www.savannahr3.com/o/savannah-r3/page/back-to-school-2026
Whether you're soaking up every last minute or already counting down to the first day of school, we've got you covered!
We've launched a new Back 2 School Page to make it easy to find many of the resources families need before the school year begins, all in one place.
You'll find things like:
📚 School supply lists
🗓️ Important dates and calendars
🚌 Transportation information
📸 First Day of School signs
✈️ Vacation planner
❓Frequently asked questions
...and more!
We'll continue updating the page throughout the summer as new information becomes available, including Online Registration, which opens August 1.
📌 Bookmark the page now and check back often—we'll keep adding resources to help your family get ready for a great school year!
🔗 https://www.savannahr3.com/o/savannah-r3/page/back-to-school-2026
Where does Missouri get the money it sends to public schools?
Last week, we shared that approximately 42% of Savannah R3's operating revenue comes from the State of Missouri.
That naturally leads to another question:
Where does the State of Missouri get the money it uses to help fund public education?
Today, Missouri's General Revenue Fund—the primary source of state funding for public schools—comes from several sources, including:
• 62% Individual income tax
• 23% Sales and use tax
• 7% Corporate tax
• 6% Other state revenue
Missouri Amendment 5 proposes changes to the state's tax structure. While the long-term impact on public school funding is not yet known, understanding how schools are funded today helps explain why school districts across Missouri are paying close attention.
As always, Savannah R3's goal is to provide factual, nonpartisan information—not advocate for or against any ballot measure.
Learn more on our community information page:
🔗 https://www.savannahr3.com/page/mo5
Last week, we shared that approximately 42% of Savannah R3's operating revenue comes from the State of Missouri.
That naturally leads to another question:
Where does the State of Missouri get the money it uses to help fund public education?
Today, Missouri's General Revenue Fund—the primary source of state funding for public schools—comes from several sources, including:
• 62% Individual income tax
• 23% Sales and use tax
• 7% Corporate tax
• 6% Other state revenue
Missouri Amendment 5 proposes changes to the state's tax structure. While the long-term impact on public school funding is not yet known, understanding how schools are funded today helps explain why school districts across Missouri are paying close attention.
As always, Savannah R3's goal is to provide factual, nonpartisan information—not advocate for or against any ballot measure.
Learn more on our community information page:
🔗 https://www.savannahr3.com/page/mo5
Did you know?
About 42% of the funding Savannah R3 receives to support our schools comes from the State of Missouri.
No single funding source supports our schools on its own. Local, state, federal, county, and other funding all work together to support teachers and staff, transportation, technology, instructional programs, student services, and the day-to-day operation of our schools.
Want to learn more about how Missouri public schools are funded? Visit our new Understanding School Funding page for answers to common questions, an explanation of Missouri's Foundation Formula, and additional information about Amendment 5.
About 42% of the funding Savannah R3 receives to support our schools comes from the State of Missouri.
No single funding source supports our schools on its own. Local, state, federal, county, and other funding all work together to support teachers and staff, transportation, technology, instructional programs, student services, and the day-to-day operation of our schools.
Want to learn more about how Missouri public schools are funded? Visit our new Understanding School Funding page for answers to common questions, an explanation of Missouri's Foundation Formula, and additional information about Amendment 5.
Already looking forward to your NEXT vacation? 🌴✈️
We get it.
Whether you're planning a long weekend, a holiday trip, or spring break, our 2026–27 Vacation Planner makes it easy to see every scheduled school break at a glance.
When possible, planning vacations during scheduled school breaks helps students stay on track while making the most of family time.
2026–27 Scheduled School Breaks:
Labor Day: Sept. 5–7
Long Weekend: Sept. 25–27
Long Weekend: Oct. 23–25
Thanksgiving Break: Nov. 25–30
Winter Break: Dec. 18–Jan. 5
Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Jan. 16–18
Presidents' Day: Feb. 13–15
Spring Break: March 20–29
📌 Save this graphic for future planning—and send it to Glam-ma so she knows when to visit! 💛
#WeAreSR3 #SR3Family
We get it.
Whether you're planning a long weekend, a holiday trip, or spring break, our 2026–27 Vacation Planner makes it easy to see every scheduled school break at a glance.
When possible, planning vacations during scheduled school breaks helps students stay on track while making the most of family time.
2026–27 Scheduled School Breaks:
Labor Day: Sept. 5–7
Long Weekend: Sept. 25–27
Long Weekend: Oct. 23–25
Thanksgiving Break: Nov. 25–30
Winter Break: Dec. 18–Jan. 5
Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Jan. 16–18
Presidents' Day: Feb. 13–15
Spring Break: March 20–29
📌 Save this graphic for future planning—and send it to Glam-ma so she knows when to visit! 💛
#WeAreSR3 #SR3Family
Over the coming weeks, you'll notice Savannah R3 sharing more information about how Missouri public schools are funded.
On August 4, Missouri voters will consider Amendment 5, and we've received questions about what it could mean for public education.
Our role isn't to tell anyone how to vote. Our role is to provide factual, easy-to-understand information and connect our community with reliable resources.
We've created a new Understanding School Funding page on our website to help answer some of the most common questions.
Tryouts are coming up fast, and are scheduled before school starts back this year!
To help our athletes get ready, we'll be hosting a three-week Pre-Season Program leading into tryouts, three days a week.
We're focusing on: strength and power in the weight room, vertical training to get you jumping higher, speed and footwork through agility, and the team skills that get you ready for our system. Each week builds on the last, so by the time tryouts arrive, you've already put in the work, and it shows.
We would love for you to come try out and be part of something special. This is an amazing program, built on hard work and a group that pushes each other to be better. More than that, it's a community. We have fun, we develop leaders, and we build athletes who carry what they learn here long after the season ends.
Pre-Season Prep | 5:30 to 7:30 PM July 20, 22, 24 July 27, 29, 31 August 10, 12, 14
Tryouts | 5:30 to 7:30 PM August 17 & 18
Current physical required, on file or brought to tryouts.
To help our athletes get ready, we'll be hosting a three-week Pre-Season Program leading into tryouts, three days a week.
We're focusing on: strength and power in the weight room, vertical training to get you jumping higher, speed and footwork through agility, and the team skills that get you ready for our system. Each week builds on the last, so by the time tryouts arrive, you've already put in the work, and it shows.
We would love for you to come try out and be part of something special. This is an amazing program, built on hard work and a group that pushes each other to be better. More than that, it's a community. We have fun, we develop leaders, and we build athletes who carry what they learn here long after the season ends.
Pre-Season Prep | 5:30 to 7:30 PM July 20, 22, 24 July 27, 29, 31 August 10, 12, 14
Tryouts | 5:30 to 7:30 PM August 17 & 18
Current physical required, on file or brought to tryouts.
A group of 28 Savannah High School students recently had the opportunity of a lifetime as they traveled to Italy and Greece.
During the trip, students visited many historic sites, including the Colosseum, the Vatican, Pompeii, the Parthenon, and the ancient cities of Epidaurus and Mycenae. Along the way, they experienced hands-on learning, explored different cultures, and made memories they will carry with them for years to come.
We’re so glad these students had the chance to learn beyond the classroom and experience history in such a meaningful way. #SR3Family #WeAreSR3
During the trip, students visited many historic sites, including the Colosseum, the Vatican, Pompeii, the Parthenon, and the ancient cities of Epidaurus and Mycenae. Along the way, they experienced hands-on learning, explored different cultures, and made memories they will carry with them for years to come.
We’re so glad these students had the chance to learn beyond the classroom and experience history in such a meaningful way. #SR3Family #WeAreSR3
There's something special about the Fourth of July in a small town.
From community celebrations and backyard cookouts to fireworks and time spent with family and friends, we hope your holiday is filled with fun, laughter, and lasting memories.
Have a safe and happy Independence Day!
#WeAreSR3 #SR3Family
From community celebrations and backyard cookouts to fireworks and time spent with family and friends, we hope your holiday is filled with fun, laughter, and lasting memories.
Have a safe and happy Independence Day!
#WeAreSR3 #SR3Family
Tryouts are coming up fast, and are scheduled before school starts back this year!
To help our athletes get ready, we'll be hosting a three-week Pre-Season Program leading into tryouts, three days a week.
We're focusing on: strength and power in the weight room, vertical training to get you jumping higher, speed and footwork through agility, and the team skills that get you ready for our system. Each week builds on the last, so by the time tryouts arrive, you've already put in the work, and it shows.
We would love for you to come try out and be part of something special. This is an amazing program, built on hard work and a group that pushes each other to be better. More than that, it's a community. We have fun, we develop leaders, and we build athletes who carry what they learn here long after the season ends.
Pre-Season Prep | 5:30 to 7:30 PM July 20, 22, 24 July 27, 29, 31 August 10, 12, 14
Tryouts | 5:30 to 7:30 PM August 17 & 18
Current physical required, on file or brought to tryouts.
To help our athletes get ready, we'll be hosting a three-week Pre-Season Program leading into tryouts, three days a week.
We're focusing on: strength and power in the weight room, vertical training to get you jumping higher, speed and footwork through agility, and the team skills that get you ready for our system. Each week builds on the last, so by the time tryouts arrive, you've already put in the work, and it shows.
We would love for you to come try out and be part of something special. This is an amazing program, built on hard work and a group that pushes each other to be better. More than that, it's a community. We have fun, we develop leaders, and we build athletes who carry what they learn here long after the season ends.
Pre-Season Prep | 5:30 to 7:30 PM July 20, 22, 24 July 27, 29, 31 August 10, 12, 14
Tryouts | 5:30 to 7:30 PM August 17 & 18
Current physical required, on file or brought to tryouts.
The deadline to register for bus transportation for the 2026-27 school year is less than a week away!
If your student will need transportation next year, please take a few minutes to complete bus registration now.
Registering by July 1 helps us build routes and prepare for the first day of school. Students registered after July 1 may not be added to a route until after Labor Day.
🚌 Register here: https://forms.gle/XiUCo8TmnNTUbzxk9
Don't let this important item get left on the summer to-do list! #SR3Family #WeAreSR3
If your student will need transportation next year, please take a few minutes to complete bus registration now.
Registering by July 1 helps us build routes and prepare for the first day of school. Students registered after July 1 may not be added to a route until after Labor Day.
🚌 Register here: https://forms.gle/XiUCo8TmnNTUbzxk9
Don't let this important item get left on the summer to-do list! #SR3Family #WeAreSR3
We’re proud to share that William Calderwood represented SR3 at the National Speech & Debate Tournament in Richmond, Virginia, and finished among the top 60 students in the nation in Big Questions Debate.
Big Questions is a one-on-one debate event that asks students to think deeply about topics connected to science, philosophy, and religion. This year’s resolution focused on whether people prefer moral systems rooted in religion or in philosophy.
Just getting to nationals was a huge accomplishment. Will qualified by finishing in the top two in our district, which included nearly 35 competitors and is one of the largest Big Questions districts in the country. From there, he went on to compete against more than 160 of the top qualifiers from across the nation.
Congratulations, Will, on this incredible achievement and on representing SR3 so well. We’re proud of all the work that got you there. #SR3Family #WeAreSR3
Big Questions is a one-on-one debate event that asks students to think deeply about topics connected to science, philosophy, and religion. This year’s resolution focused on whether people prefer moral systems rooted in religion or in philosophy.
Just getting to nationals was a huge accomplishment. Will qualified by finishing in the top two in our district, which included nearly 35 competitors and is one of the largest Big Questions districts in the country. From there, he went on to compete against more than 160 of the top qualifiers from across the nation.
Congratulations, Will, on this incredible achievement and on representing SR3 so well. We’re proud of all the work that got you there. #SR3Family #WeAreSR3
If your student plans to ride the bus during the 2026-27 school year, now is the time to sign up!
Registering by July 1 helps us finalize routes, assign drivers, and ensure students are ready to ride when school begins in August. Students registered after July 1 may not be added to a route until after Labor Day.
Don't wait until summer is over to check this one off your list!
🚌 Register here: https://forms.gle/eQEwGmD7CdS1GJgu5
#SR3Family #WeAreSR3
Summer is flying by! ☀️
You've probably already checked off a few items on your summer checklist, but don't forget one important task for next school year:
🚌 Register for bus transportation by July 1.
Completing bus registration now helps us build routes and prepare for the first day of school. Students registered after July 1 may not be added to a route until after Labor Day.
https://forms.gle/E5dUEgrD2tjyPp7Y8
#SR3Family #WeAreSR3
You've probably already checked off a few items on your summer checklist, but don't forget one important task for next school year:
🚌 Register for bus transportation by July 1.
Completing bus registration now helps us build routes and prepare for the first day of school. Students registered after July 1 may not be added to a route until after Labor Day.
https://forms.gle/E5dUEgrD2tjyPp7Y8
#SR3Family #WeAreSR3
📣 Quick calendar check!
We've made two updates to the 2026-27 school calendar:
🎓 Graduation for the Class of 2027 is now scheduled for Sunday, May 23, 2027.
This date has changed from the one originally published, so please update your calendars.
👑 Courtwarming has been added to the calendar and will be held on February 12, 2027.
We've attached the updated calendar highlights graphic for easy reference. Save it, screenshot it, print it for the fridge—whatever works best for your family. Your future self will thank you. #SR3Family #WeAreSR3
We've made two updates to the 2026-27 school calendar:
🎓 Graduation for the Class of 2027 is now scheduled for Sunday, May 23, 2027.
This date has changed from the one originally published, so please update your calendars.
👑 Courtwarming has been added to the calendar and will be held on February 12, 2027.
We've attached the updated calendar highlights graphic for easy reference. Save it, screenshot it, print it for the fridge—whatever works best for your family. Your future self will thank you. #SR3Family #WeAreSR3
🏠 Final reminder!
Tomorrow is your chance to tour Savannah R3 Building Trades House #40 during our community Open House from 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Built by Savannah High School students over the past three school years, this beautiful custom home represents the 40th student-built home completed through Savannah R3’s Building Trades program.
Come see the craftsmanship, upgraded finishes, and thoughtful design features that make this project so special.
📅 Sunday, May 31
⏰ 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Additional details, floor plans, and bid information can be found on our website.
#SR3Family #WeAreSR3 #SR3💛Trades
