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.
Future cheerleaders who participated in the future cheer clinic for students in grades K-6 joined the Waynesville High School cheerleaders to perform cheers and a dance during halftime of the varsity football game on Sept. 11, 2026.
Waynesville R-VI fans showed their support for those who serve during Military Appreciation Night while also commemorating the 25th anniversary of 9-11 on Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, at Waynesville High School’s Tiger Stadium.
Participating in the ceremonial coin toss alongside the officials and team captains were Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood Command Sergeant Major Keyon Cummings; Command Chief Warrant Officer Angela Rulewich; Waynesville R-VI Superintendent Hilary Bales; and Waynesville High School Principal Brian Vernon.
Before the game began, 40 FLW soldiers from the 14th Military Brigade were honored as they marched on the track as the Waynesville High School Marching Band performed “Main Street America.” Following the National Anthem, soldiers then formed a tunnel for WHS football players and coaches to walk through as the players headed onto the field.
The 787th Military Police Battalion was also recognized for its continued partnership with WHS and for providing a military vehicle on display.
Participating in the ceremonial coin toss alongside the officials and team captains were Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood Command Sergeant Major Keyon Cummings; Command Chief Warrant Officer Angela Rulewich; Waynesville R-VI Superintendent Hilary Bales; and Waynesville High School Principal Brian Vernon.
Before the game began, 40 FLW soldiers from the 14th Military Brigade were honored as they marched on the track as the Waynesville High School Marching Band performed “Main Street America.” Following the National Anthem, soldiers then formed a tunnel for WHS football players and coaches to walk through as the players headed onto the field.
The 787th Military Police Battalion was also recognized for its continued partnership with WHS and for providing a military vehicle on display.
Waynesville R-VI schools commemorated Patriot Day today, the 25th anniversary of 9-11. At Partridge Elementary, the special program honored the heroes of Sept. 11, 2001, as well as the first responders, members of the military and others who continue to serve and protect our communities and nation. During the program, students learned about the events and significance of 9/11, music teacher Amanda Johnson-Gonzalez sang the National Anthem, Lighthouse Team students presented a special script and fifth graders performed “You’re a Grand Old Flag.” Firefighters from the Fort Leonard Wood Fire Department were also recognized for their service and dedication.
This information was previously posted on Sept. 1, 2026.
Waynesville to celebrate Military Appreciation Night
Waynesville R-VI will host Military Appreciation Night on Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, at Waynesville High School’s Tiger Stadium.
All Soldiers and Veterans with a military ID will be admitted free to the game.
Activities will begin at approximately 6:45 p.m. with Soldiers marching on the track. Kickoff is at 7 p.m. against Neosho.
Tiger Stadium is located at 200 G.W. Lane St. in Waynesville.
Waynesville to celebrate Military Appreciation Night
Waynesville R-VI will host Military Appreciation Night on Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, at Waynesville High School’s Tiger Stadium.
All Soldiers and Veterans with a military ID will be admitted free to the game.
Activities will begin at approximately 6:45 p.m. with Soldiers marching on the track. Kickoff is at 7 p.m. against Neosho.
Tiger Stadium is located at 200 G.W. Lane St. in Waynesville.
This information was previously posted on Sept. 1, 2026.
Tiger Festival of Nations will be held from 5 to 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, at Waynesville High School on the Ninth Grade Center side of the building.
Attendees will learn about different cultures and sample food from around the world. Tiger Festival of Nations is free and open to the public.
Following Tiger Festival of Nations, Waynesville R-VI will host Military Appreciation Night at Tiger Stadium with all Soldiers and Veterans with an ID being admitted for free. Stadium gates will open at 6 p.m. with the WHS Tigers taking on Neosho at 7 p.m. Regular admission to Tiger Stadium is $4 for school age children and up without a pass.
Tiger Festival of Nations will be held from 5 to 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, at Waynesville High School on the Ninth Grade Center side of the building.
Attendees will learn about different cultures and sample food from around the world. Tiger Festival of Nations is free and open to the public.
Following Tiger Festival of Nations, Waynesville R-VI will host Military Appreciation Night at Tiger Stadium with all Soldiers and Veterans with an ID being admitted for free. Stadium gates will open at 6 p.m. with the WHS Tigers taking on Neosho at 7 p.m. Regular admission to Tiger Stadium is $4 for school age children and up without a pass.
Bohrer named WHS Student of the Month
Faith Bohrer, a senior at Waynesville High School, has been named the Rotary WHS Student of the Month for September 2026. She was recognized during the Sept. 8, 2026, Rotary Club of Pulaski County meeting, which her parents, Travis and Chrystal Bohrer, also attended.
Bohrer’s nominator stated, “Faith is a student who consistently demonstrates respect, maturity and consideration for those around her. As an honor student and a state leader in FCCLA, she has shown that she is not only academically capable, but also a responsible and dedicated leader. Faith treats her teachers, classmates and peers with kindness and genuine respect, while setting a positive example through her actions and work ethic. Her leadership in FCCLA reflects her ability to communicate effectively, collaborate with others and represent her school with pride.”
Bohrer carries an outstanding grade point average of 4.31 and a 98 percent attendance rate for all four years of high school. She has completed 10 college-level courses, including four dual-credit and six AP courses. She serves as the Missouri vice president of finance of the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America and the WHS FCCLA president. Bohrer founded the Waynesville Technology Student Association, providing STEM learning opportunities to students, and the Career Technical Student Organization, expanding leadership opportunities for students. She is also the public relations officer for Fellow Christian Athletes, and a member of the Future Business Leaders of America, Tiger Mentor Program, National Honor Society and the French Club. On her own, Bohrer has participated in mock trials and is an Envision alumni at Stanford University. She also served as an assistant campaign manager for the state Senate and has shadowed Missouri’s governor and state representatives. Bohrer plans to attend Benedictine College to earn a double bachelor’s degree in political science and marketing then attend the Catholic University of America to pursue a degree in law.
Faith Bohrer, a senior at Waynesville High School, has been named the Rotary WHS Student of the Month for September 2026. She was recognized during the Sept. 8, 2026, Rotary Club of Pulaski County meeting, which her parents, Travis and Chrystal Bohrer, also attended.
Bohrer’s nominator stated, “Faith is a student who consistently demonstrates respect, maturity and consideration for those around her. As an honor student and a state leader in FCCLA, she has shown that she is not only academically capable, but also a responsible and dedicated leader. Faith treats her teachers, classmates and peers with kindness and genuine respect, while setting a positive example through her actions and work ethic. Her leadership in FCCLA reflects her ability to communicate effectively, collaborate with others and represent her school with pride.”
Bohrer carries an outstanding grade point average of 4.31 and a 98 percent attendance rate for all four years of high school. She has completed 10 college-level courses, including four dual-credit and six AP courses. She serves as the Missouri vice president of finance of the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America and the WHS FCCLA president. Bohrer founded the Waynesville Technology Student Association, providing STEM learning opportunities to students, and the Career Technical Student Organization, expanding leadership opportunities for students. She is also the public relations officer for Fellow Christian Athletes, and a member of the Future Business Leaders of America, Tiger Mentor Program, National Honor Society and the French Club. On her own, Bohrer has participated in mock trials and is an Envision alumni at Stanford University. She also served as an assistant campaign manager for the state Senate and has shadowed Missouri’s governor and state representatives. Bohrer plans to attend Benedictine College to earn a double bachelor’s degree in political science and marketing then attend the Catholic University of America to pursue a degree in law.
An ambulance was dispatched to Waynesville Middle School at approximately 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8, 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.
This weeks's #TeacherProud Tuesday shout-out goes to Katy Henson teacher at Freedom Elementary School. #WaySchools
All schools and offices in the Waynesville R-VI School District will be closed on Monday, Sept. 7, 2026, in observance of Labor Day.
Tiger Pride Night #1: Tech Tools for Families
Sept. 15, 2026 | 5:30-6:30
Waynesville R-VI will host a “Tech Tools" for parents/guardians from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026, as part of the district’s Tiger Pride Night sessions this year.
This interactive evening is designed to help families navigate the digital tools that support student learning. Parents and students will receive guidance and hands-on assistance with essential school technology and applications, including ParentSquare, PowerSchool, Canvas, online textbooks and other district resources. This session will help families stay informed, connected and confident in using the technology that supports student success throughout the school year.
Waynesville AmeriCorps to host Service Project for 9.11 Day at WMS
Waynesville AmeriCorps will host a Service Project for 9.11 Day from 3 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026, at Waynesville Middle School.
WMS students will stay after school and volunteer to pack Snack in a Pack meals for the Thanksgiving break. Waynesville AmeriCorps members will lead the project and a grant from the Boys & Girls Clubs of America is helping fund food for the long holiday.
“Service is a meaningful way for our students and community to honor September 11,” said AmeriCorps Director Tina Rowden, “By giving our time to help others, we can remember those who were lost while also carrying forward the extraordinary spirit of unity and service that emerged across our nation.”
@911Day and @AmeriCorps #WaySchools
Waynesville AmeriCorps will host a Service Project for 9.11 Day from 3 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026, at Waynesville Middle School.
WMS students will stay after school and volunteer to pack Snack in a Pack meals for the Thanksgiving break. Waynesville AmeriCorps members will lead the project and a grant from the Boys & Girls Clubs of America is helping fund food for the long holiday.
“Service is a meaningful way for our students and community to honor September 11,” said AmeriCorps Director Tina Rowden, “By giving our time to help others, we can remember those who were lost while also carrying forward the extraordinary spirit of unity and service that emerged across our nation.”
@911Day and @AmeriCorps #WaySchools
Tiger Festival of Nations will be held from 5 to 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, at Waynesville High School on the Ninth Grade Center side of the building.
Attendees will learn about different cultures and sample food from around the world. Tiger Festival of Nations is free and open to the public.
Following Tiger Festival of Nations, Waynesville R-VI will host Military Appreciation Night at Tiger Stadium with all Soldiers and Veterans with an ID being admitted for free. Stadium gates will open at 6 p.m. with the WHS Tigers taking on Neosho at 7 p.m. Regular admission to Tiger Stadium is $4 for school age children and up without a pass.
Attendees will learn about different cultures and sample food from around the world. Tiger Festival of Nations is free and open to the public.
Following Tiger Festival of Nations, Waynesville R-VI will host Military Appreciation Night at Tiger Stadium with all Soldiers and Veterans with an ID being admitted for free. Stadium gates will open at 6 p.m. with the WHS Tigers taking on Neosho at 7 p.m. Regular admission to Tiger Stadium is $4 for school age children and up without a pass.
