News

The Excelsior Springs School District spent just under $2 million last year educating 26 students outside the district, prompting administrators to examine whether expanding in-district special education programs could better serve students while managing rising costs.

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Editor’s note: This is the final of a twopart series examining Novaleigh’s Law, a proposed child safety reform being drafted by Excelsior Springs resident Brianna Smith-Nimley. Today’s story examines the court records, Missouri statutes and procedural gaps the proposal seeks to address. Part One focused on Smith-Nimley’s personal connection to the issue and her work developing the proposal.

Excelsior Springs High School officials reported measurable gains in student attendance, credit completion and classroom engagement as targeted academic programs and instructional changes continue to reshape the way students are supported. High school leaders reported significant academic and attendance gains tied to the Tiger Success Academy (TSA), a targeted program designed to support students who struggle in traditional classroom settings.

Excelsior Springs School District leaders say revenue collections are tracking behind last year largely due to timing differences, while longerterm pressures tied to enrollment and attendance continue to shape the district’s plans for staffing, facilities and future funding.

Clay County seniors will now be protected from a larger share of rising property taxes after county officials approved a targeted update to the county’s senior tax relief program. The Clay County Commission recently approved an amendment to the county’s Senior Real Estate Property Tax Relief Program that expands which portions of a property tax bill can be frozen once a homeowner qualifies for the credit.

THE MEALS AND A VISIT PROGRAM begins its first day of service as Excelsior Springs Parks, Recreation and Community Center Project Manager Jesse Hall (photo at left) loads meal bags, and MVP Director Tammy Murphy and volunteer Lisa Watkins make the first delivery.

Editor’s note: This is the first of a twopart series examining proposed reform known as Novaleigh’s Law and the broader questions it raises about Missouri’s child protection system. Part One focuses on Excelsior Springs resident Brianna Smith-Nimley and her effort to draft the legislation, including her personal connection to the issue and the research and advocacy work now underway.

The Excelsior Springs Board of Education has approved the first phase of a fiveyear strategic planning process, clearing the way for community action teams to build the final plan for later approval this spring.

With questions circulating in the community about the future of 4-H and other local programs, MU Extension officials are warning upcoming budget decisions in Ray County could dramatically change services used by families across the area, including those in Orrick, Lawson and Excelsior Springs.