Waynesville High School has announced the homecoming queen and king candidates. They are as follows:
Homecoming Queen Candidates:
Emily Babcock
Danica Leet
Brooklyn Lercher
Juliet Piper
Homecoming King Candidates:
Brody Andersson
Harley Atchison
MJ Greene
RJ Peace
Homecoming Queen Candidates:
Emily Babcock
Danica Leet
Brooklyn Lercher
Juliet Piper
Homecoming King Candidates:
Brody Andersson
Harley Atchison
MJ Greene
RJ Peace
Mike Henson, executive director of elementary, presented the Community Recognition Plaque to Steve “Mr. Steve” Goodskyhertig in recognition of his continuous support of the Tiger Bookmobile throughout the summer.
Mr. Steve enjoyed reading with children and visiting with their parents. He regularly arrived early to help set up and stayed late to help pack up. In recognition of his dedication, kindness and willingness to serve the community, Tiger Bookmobile librarians also named Mr. Steve an Honorary Bookmobile Librarian during the Sept. 28, 2026, Waynesville R-VI Board of Education meeting.
Pictured are Kristin Ross, Cassie Wilson, Jennifer Henson, Steve Goodskyhertig, Kennedy Beauchamp, Mike Henson and Superintendent Hilary Bales.
Mr. Steve enjoyed reading with children and visiting with their parents. He regularly arrived early to help set up and stayed late to help pack up. In recognition of his dedication, kindness and willingness to serve the community, Tiger Bookmobile librarians also named Mr. Steve an Honorary Bookmobile Librarian during the Sept. 28, 2026, Waynesville R-VI Board of Education meeting.
Pictured are Kristin Ross, Cassie Wilson, Jennifer Henson, Steve Goodskyhertig, Kennedy Beauchamp, Mike Henson and Superintendent Hilary Bales.
Students to showcase their talents on Oct. 1;
4 to be inducted into Wall of Leaders
The Waynesville R-VI School District Foundation will host Showcase Waynesville Schools from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026, at Waynesville High School. Following the performances, two alumni and two educators will be inducted into the Wall of Leaders.
“We invite families and community members to come celebrate the creativity and talent of our students through their artwork and live performances,” said Foundation President Cheryl Vernon.
From 5:30 to 6 p.m. student art pieces will be on display, along with art and robotics demonstrations. At 6 p.m. students will take the stage for dance, instrumental and choral performances, along with a Waynesville JROTC exhibition.
During the performances, the individuals who will later be inducted into the Wall of Leaders will be introduced. The formal induction ceremony of Brad and Arita Bohannan in the Lifetime Achievement – Alumni category and Dwight Hensley and David Lawson as Outstanding Educational Professionals will begin at 7:15 p.m. in front of the Wall of Leaders, which is located directly behind the bronze tiger statue.
This year’s Showcase Waynesville Schools is free and open to the public.
Schedule at a glance
5:30 to 6 p.m. WHS 1st Floor
-- Guests will view student artwork and students will demonstrate their artistic and robotic skills on the first floor fine arts wing of WHS.
6 to 7 p.m. WHS Auditorium
-- Waynesville R-VI students will perform dance, musical and choral numbers in the WHS Auditorium.
7:15 p.m. WHS Bronze Tiger
-- Close friends, family members and community leaders are invited to stay for the formal Induction ceremony into the Wall of Leaders. Brad and Arita Bohannan will be recognized in the Lifetime Achievement – Alumni category and Dwight Hensley and David Lawson will be honored as Outstanding Educational Professionals.
Three Waynesville High School teachers used DESE grant funds to create unique opportunities for their students to research and learn more about Route 66, including listening to a guest speaker, painting a mural, creating trifold poster boards and publishing a 72-page booklet. Their project celebrated the 100th anniversary of Route 66 and is featured today (Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2026) on the Missouri State Teachers Association’s website at https://msta.org/school-community/waynesville-high-school-route-66-civics-project.
This weeks's #TeacherProud Tuesday shout-out goes to Matt Neuman teacher at Partridge Elementary. #WaySchools
An ambulance was dispatched to Waynesville High School at approximately 7:40 p.m. Monday, Sept. 21, 2026, to treat an individual student with a medical condition. The parent/guardian has been contacted and will determine what, if any, further medical treatment is necessary.
An ambulance was dispatched to Waynesville Middle School at approximately 4:35 p.m. today (Monday, Sept. 21, 2026) to treat an individual student with a medical condition. A parent/guardian has been notified and will determine what, if any, further medical treatment is necessary.
Fourteen Waynesville High School students auditioned for a spot in the Central District Missouri Music Choir on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, at Osage High School.
Seven (with asterisks below) were selected for the choir and are eligible to advance to audition for the Missouri All-State Choir.
“We are incredibly proud of every student who stepped forward, prepared and shared their talent at auditions,” said WHS Choir Director Cydnee Gilmore. “Seventeen schools participated in auditions, making this accomplishment even more impressive.”
The WHS students who auditioned are as follows:
Atchison, Harley
BaIlly, Emma*
Blunt, Anastasia*
Calhoun, Cyrus*
Diaz, Isabel*
Green, Victoria
Harlow-Hernandez, Lyric
Hicks, Benjamin
Moynihan, Eulalia
Romans, Alex
Romero, LilyAna*
Scobee, Morgan*
Simram, Sainisha*
Telebrisco, Joe
Seven (with asterisks below) were selected for the choir and are eligible to advance to audition for the Missouri All-State Choir.
“We are incredibly proud of every student who stepped forward, prepared and shared their talent at auditions,” said WHS Choir Director Cydnee Gilmore. “Seventeen schools participated in auditions, making this accomplishment even more impressive.”
The WHS students who auditioned are as follows:
Atchison, Harley
BaIlly, Emma*
Blunt, Anastasia*
Calhoun, Cyrus*
Diaz, Isabel*
Green, Victoria
Harlow-Hernandez, Lyric
Hicks, Benjamin
Moynihan, Eulalia
Romans, Alex
Romero, LilyAna*
Scobee, Morgan*
Simram, Sainisha*
Telebrisco, Joe
Waynesville R-VI offers more than 75 clubs, sports and afterschool activities that give students opportunities to explore their interests, build relationships, develop new skills and grow as leaders. These experiences help bring our mission to life: Leading the Way, Every Day. Inspiring students to learn, lead, and leave a lasting impact on their communities.
Learn more about our afterschool programs at https://www.waynesville.k12.mo.us/page/afterschool-programs
Band photo by Waynesville High School student.
#LeadingTheWay #CSIP #StrategicPlan #WaySchools
Learn more about our afterschool programs at https://www.waynesville.k12.mo.us/page/afterschool-programs
Band photo by Waynesville High School student.
#LeadingTheWay #CSIP #StrategicPlan #WaySchools
Every number tells a story of student success, dedicated staff and a commitment to educational excellence.
Graduation rate: 96.9%
Total meals served in 2025-26: 1,166,688
More than 75 clubs and sports
1,000 teachers, faculty and staff
6,052 students in PreK-12
#PublicSchools #DistrictByTheNumbers #WaySchools
Graduation rate: 96.9%
Total meals served in 2025-26: 1,166,688
More than 75 clubs and sports
1,000 teachers, faculty and staff
6,052 students in PreK-12
#PublicSchools #DistrictByTheNumbers #WaySchools
Our District’s Strategic Plan
The Waynesville R-VI strategic plan is centered on four priorities that guide our work from 2026–2031. The Comprehensive School Improvement Plan was developed through a collaboration of community members, students, staff, teachers, parents, volunteers and administrators.
Together, these priorities focus on:
Student Success, Well-Being & Safety
Quality Staffing, Retention & Wellness
Facilities, Safety, Resources & Technology
Community Engagement & Communication
Our District's Mission
Leading the Way, Every Day
Inspiring students to learn, lead, and leave a lasting impact on their communities.
Our District's Vision
Waynesville R-VI will become a school community where students are empowered to lead with integrity, serve, and make a meaningful difference in the world.
The Waynesville R-VI strategic plan is centered on four priorities that guide our work from 2026–2031. The Comprehensive School Improvement Plan was developed through a collaboration of community members, students, staff, teachers, parents, volunteers and administrators.
Together, these priorities focus on:
Student Success, Well-Being & Safety
Quality Staffing, Retention & Wellness
Facilities, Safety, Resources & Technology
Community Engagement & Communication
Our District's Mission
Leading the Way, Every Day
Inspiring students to learn, lead, and leave a lasting impact on their communities.
Our District's Vision
Waynesville R-VI will become a school community where students are empowered to lead with integrity, serve, and make a meaningful difference in the world.
An ambulance was dispatched to Waynesville Middle School at approximately 8:25 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 17, 2026, to treat an individual with a medical condition. The parent/guardian has been contacted and will determine what, if any, further medical treatment is necessary.
Waynesville R-VI families participated in a “Tech Tools" for parents/guardians on Sept. 15, 2026, as part of the district’s Tiger Pride Night series. This session helped families navigate the digital tools that support student learning, including ParentSquare, PowerSchool, Canvas, online textbooks and other district resources.
Alumni and educators to be inducted into Wall of Leaders
Brad and Arita Bohannan, Dwight Hensley and David Lawson will be inducted into the Waynesville R-VI School District’s Wall of Leaders on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026, during Showcase Waynesville Schools at Waynesville High School. The event is free and open to the public.
Brad and Arita Bohannan will be recognized in the Lifetime Achievement – Alumni category, while Hensley and Lawson will be honored as Outstanding Educational Professionals.
The induction ceremony is expected to begin at approximately 7:15 p.m. at the Wall of Leaders, located just inside the main entrance of Waynesville High School behind the bronze tiger statue.
The Wall of Leaders program is overseen by the Waynesville R-VI School District Foundation, led by Foundation President Cheryl Vernon.
Showcase Waynesville Schools at a glance:
5:30 p.m. — Art and robotics demonstrations, WHS first floor
6 p.m. — Student performances, WHS Auditorium
7:15 p.m. — Wall of Leaders induction ceremony, bronze tiger
The bios of the inductees follow:
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT – ALUMNI: BRAD AND ARITA BOHANNAN
While alumni Brad ’90 and Arita (Lipps) ’92 Bohannan have achieved remarkable professional success, their philanthropy and public service may be their greatest legacy. Brad’s career as an entrepreneur spans hospitality, entertainment, real estate, award-winning music publishing and media. Arita is an attorney, business owner and author who has founded a legal mediation clinic and serves as a parish councilwoman focused on economic development. Together, they have generously supported causes in New Orleans and Waynesville, including inclusive playgrounds, family services, nonprofit organizations and small businesses. They have leveraged their visionary leadership, creativity and strong work to open doors for others, support families and create places where everyone belongs. Inducted 2026.
OUTSTANDING EDUCATIONAL PROFESSIONAL: DAVID LAWSON
David Lawson has devoted decades to serving Waynesville R-VI students through music, leadership and volunteerism. In 1985, he began his career in Waynesville R-VI as a music teacher and became known as an exceptional pianist. In 1987, he became principal at Pershing Elementary and later served as principal at East Elementary until retiring in 2004. As an administrator, he was respected for his professionalism, positive leadership, a commitment to excellence and genuine care for students, staff and families. Since his retirement, he continues to support Waynesville’s music programs, accompanying students for district and state contests, rehearsals, musicals and performances. Although he no longer lives in the community, he still returns to share his musical talents and leave a lasting impact on generations of students and staff. Inducted 2026.
OUTSTANDING EDUCATIONAL PROFESSIONAL: DWIGHT HENSLEY
Dwight Hensley, a 1951 WHS graduate, devoted nearly two decades serving Waynesville R-VI, as WHS assistant principal (1980) and principal (1981), then assistant superintendent of personnel services before he retired in 1999. A beloved and respected leader, he was known for high expectations, compassion, humor and genuine care for the people he served. His guidance to staff was memorable: be “fair, firm and consistent.” Proud of his hometown and its schools, he championed opportunities for students to succeed in academics and activities. He was also a member of the 1951 Waynesville High School basketball team that finished as the MSHSAA Class B state runner-up. Colleagues remember him as an encouraging mentor, a strong advocate for students and staff, and a leader whose influence reached far beyond the school walls. Inducted 2026.
Brad and Arita Bohannan, Dwight Hensley and David Lawson will be inducted into the Waynesville R-VI School District’s Wall of Leaders on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026, during Showcase Waynesville Schools at Waynesville High School. The event is free and open to the public.
Brad and Arita Bohannan will be recognized in the Lifetime Achievement – Alumni category, while Hensley and Lawson will be honored as Outstanding Educational Professionals.
The induction ceremony is expected to begin at approximately 7:15 p.m. at the Wall of Leaders, located just inside the main entrance of Waynesville High School behind the bronze tiger statue.
The Wall of Leaders program is overseen by the Waynesville R-VI School District Foundation, led by Foundation President Cheryl Vernon.
Showcase Waynesville Schools at a glance:
5:30 p.m. — Art and robotics demonstrations, WHS first floor
6 p.m. — Student performances, WHS Auditorium
7:15 p.m. — Wall of Leaders induction ceremony, bronze tiger
The bios of the inductees follow:
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT – ALUMNI: BRAD AND ARITA BOHANNAN
While alumni Brad ’90 and Arita (Lipps) ’92 Bohannan have achieved remarkable professional success, their philanthropy and public service may be their greatest legacy. Brad’s career as an entrepreneur spans hospitality, entertainment, real estate, award-winning music publishing and media. Arita is an attorney, business owner and author who has founded a legal mediation clinic and serves as a parish councilwoman focused on economic development. Together, they have generously supported causes in New Orleans and Waynesville, including inclusive playgrounds, family services, nonprofit organizations and small businesses. They have leveraged their visionary leadership, creativity and strong work to open doors for others, support families and create places where everyone belongs. Inducted 2026.
OUTSTANDING EDUCATIONAL PROFESSIONAL: DAVID LAWSON
David Lawson has devoted decades to serving Waynesville R-VI students through music, leadership and volunteerism. In 1985, he began his career in Waynesville R-VI as a music teacher and became known as an exceptional pianist. In 1987, he became principal at Pershing Elementary and later served as principal at East Elementary until retiring in 2004. As an administrator, he was respected for his professionalism, positive leadership, a commitment to excellence and genuine care for students, staff and families. Since his retirement, he continues to support Waynesville’s music programs, accompanying students for district and state contests, rehearsals, musicals and performances. Although he no longer lives in the community, he still returns to share his musical talents and leave a lasting impact on generations of students and staff. Inducted 2026.
OUTSTANDING EDUCATIONAL PROFESSIONAL: DWIGHT HENSLEY
Dwight Hensley, a 1951 WHS graduate, devoted nearly two decades serving Waynesville R-VI, as WHS assistant principal (1980) and principal (1981), then assistant superintendent of personnel services before he retired in 1999. A beloved and respected leader, he was known for high expectations, compassion, humor and genuine care for the people he served. His guidance to staff was memorable: be “fair, firm and consistent.” Proud of his hometown and its schools, he championed opportunities for students to succeed in academics and activities. He was also a member of the 1951 Waynesville High School basketball team that finished as the MSHSAA Class B state runner-up. Colleagues remember him as an encouraging mentor, a strong advocate for students and staff, and a leader whose influence reached far beyond the school walls. Inducted 2026.
WHS collects baby items for military families in need
Waynesville High School partnered with the USO for a drive to collect baby items for military families in need. Community members also brought items to the WHS varsity home football game during Military Appreciation Night on Sept. 11, 2026.
Waynesville High School partnered with the USO for a drive to collect baby items for military families in need. Community members also brought items to the WHS varsity home football game during Military Appreciation Night on Sept. 11, 2026.
WMS students give back through service project for 9.11 Day
More than 50 Waynesville Middle School students joined Waynesville AmeriCorps members and other volunteers to honor the 25th anniversary of Sept. 11 through service to others.
"It was fun to see the students get so involved in helping our community,” James Lafferty, a teacher who volunteered with the project.
A total of 53 WMS students stayed after school on Sept. 9, 2026, to pack Snack in a Pack meals as part of the 9.11 Day of Service hosted by Waynesville AmeriCorps. Four AmeriCorps members and 10 adults also volunteered for the project.
The students prepared food bags for fellow students in need, helping ensure they will have additional food during the extended Thanksgiving break. Waynesville AmeriCorps members led the project, and a grant from the Boys & Girls Clubs of America helped provide food for the extended holiday period.
For the students who participated, the project provided an opportunity to see firsthand how service can make a difference for others.
"I enjoyed helping make packs for fellow students in need,” said Isabel DeSouza, a WMS Student Council member. “It felt good to work together with others … to help make someone’s day a little better.”
Student Council Advisor Kayle Atchison said the students demonstrated compassion and leadership throughout the project.
"They worked together with kindness and enthusiasm, understanding that even a small act of service can make a meaningful difference in someone’s day,” Atchison said. “I am proud of the way all student volunteers looked beyond themselves and chose to support their peers and strengthen our school community."
AmeriCorps Director Tina Rowden provided an opportunity for students to reflect on the significance of Sept. 11, 2001, and the courage, compassion and unity demonstrated in the aftermath of the attacks.
"Twenty-five years later, we may not remember every detail of that day, but we can remember its lessons: value one another, help people in need, stand together during difficult times and never take our everyday moments with family and friends for granted,” Rowden said.
@911Day @AmeriCorps #WaySchools
More than 50 Waynesville Middle School students joined Waynesville AmeriCorps members and other volunteers to honor the 25th anniversary of Sept. 11 through service to others.
"It was fun to see the students get so involved in helping our community,” James Lafferty, a teacher who volunteered with the project.
A total of 53 WMS students stayed after school on Sept. 9, 2026, to pack Snack in a Pack meals as part of the 9.11 Day of Service hosted by Waynesville AmeriCorps. Four AmeriCorps members and 10 adults also volunteered for the project.
The students prepared food bags for fellow students in need, helping ensure they will have additional food during the extended Thanksgiving break. Waynesville AmeriCorps members led the project, and a grant from the Boys & Girls Clubs of America helped provide food for the extended holiday period.
For the students who participated, the project provided an opportunity to see firsthand how service can make a difference for others.
"I enjoyed helping make packs for fellow students in need,” said Isabel DeSouza, a WMS Student Council member. “It felt good to work together with others … to help make someone’s day a little better.”
Student Council Advisor Kayle Atchison said the students demonstrated compassion and leadership throughout the project.
"They worked together with kindness and enthusiasm, understanding that even a small act of service can make a meaningful difference in someone’s day,” Atchison said. “I am proud of the way all student volunteers looked beyond themselves and chose to support their peers and strengthen our school community."
AmeriCorps Director Tina Rowden provided an opportunity for students to reflect on the significance of Sept. 11, 2001, and the courage, compassion and unity demonstrated in the aftermath of the attacks.
"Twenty-five years later, we may not remember every detail of that day, but we can remember its lessons: value one another, help people in need, stand together during difficult times and never take our everyday moments with family and friends for granted,” Rowden said.
@911Day @AmeriCorps #WaySchools
FFA students volunteer to help pack 25,000 meals
Waynesville FFA students volunteered to help pack 25,000 meals for individuals and families in need in Pulaski County on Sept. 12, 2026. The Laclede Literacy Council hosted the Pulaski County 9/11 Feed Our Neighbors Meal Pack on Sept. 12, 2026, benefiting school backpack programs, senior centers and the Pulaski County Homeless Coalition at the VFW Post #3168 in Laquey.
Area businesses are invited to participate in the Homecoming Window Decorating Contest by decorating their businesses windows in the theme of “Roaring Down Route 66.”
The windows will need to be ready to be judged by 8 a.m. Oct. 1.
More details and the form to sign up to have your windows judged are at https://forms.gle/wf2VCe2dTfm1VVFq8.
The windows will need to be ready to be judged by 8 a.m. Oct. 1.
More details and the form to sign up to have your windows judged are at https://forms.gle/wf2VCe2dTfm1VVFq8.
This weeks's #TeacherProud Tuesday shout-out goes to Alyssa Rigsby teacher at Williams Early Childhood Center. #WaySchools
The Waynesville Community Teachers Association will host a Family Movie Night featuring "Happy Feet" at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25, 2026, on the field at Tiger Stadium at Waynesville High School.
Donations will be accepted and concessions will be available for sale. All proceeds will fund the CTA scholarship, which supports a WHS graduating senior pursuing a degree in teaching.
Tiger Stadium is located at 200 G.W. Lane St., Waynesville. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.
Donations will be accepted and concessions will be available for sale. All proceeds will fund the CTA scholarship, which supports a WHS graduating senior pursuing a degree in teaching.
Tiger Stadium is located at 200 G.W. Lane St., Waynesville. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.
