Palmyra R-1 Board Reviews Bond Progress, Safety Programs, and Approves Personnel Changes

PALMYRA, Mo. — The Palmyra R-1 School District Board of Education covered a broad agenda during its regular Jan. 13 meeting, reviewing progress on bond-funded construction projects, discussing student safety initiatives and long-term planning, and approving multiple resignations and a new hire.

The meeting was held at the Palmyra R-1 Boardroom and opened with reports highlighting student engagement and district services.

Student programs and academic services

Student leaders from the district’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes chapter updated the board on activities designed to promote connection and fellowship among Palmyra students and peers from other Northeast Missouri districts.

The board also heard from Kinsey Cissna, who reported that the district continues to receive perfect scores on special education file reviews and other performance indicators from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Palmyra R-1 currently serves 176 students through its special education programs.

Building principals provided reports from their schools, followed by a pre-budget and legislative update from Superintendent Jason Harper.

Bond projects and facility improvements

Harper told the board that initial bond projects approved by voters are now complete, with work moving into a second phase of improvements outlined prior to the April 2024 election.

Among the current projects is the demolition of the former tennis courts north of the high school. Crews have removed the asphalt surface, fencing, light poles, and nearby trees. A new fiber run beneath the former courts has also been completed, maintaining internet connectivity for the elementary and middle schools.

The board also received updates on intercom upgrades at both the elementary and middle schools, designed to ensure announcements can be heard in classrooms even when doors are closed. Harper reviewed preliminary cost estimates for future LED lighting upgrades in district classrooms, noting the project is expected to pay for itself within seven years through energy savings.

Additional facility discussions included districtwide technology upgrades, tuckpointing projects, sidewalk improvements at the middle school, and planning for a new playground at Palmyra Elementary School involving staff and students.

Community projects and student safety

Doug Meyers updated the board on proposed improvements to Foster Field at Flower City Park. Board members discussed the possibility of contributing to those upgrades, as well as improvements to the city baseball field. Meyers is expected to bring pricing options back to the board for review.

Administrators also outlined plans for Stop Trafficking Project assemblies scheduled for Feb. 4 and 5. The initiative will include an evening presentation for parents and community members on Feb. 4 at Palmyra Middle School, followed by student assemblies the next day for grade bands from kindergarten through high school. The sessions will focus on online safety, recognizing concerning behavior, and encouraging communication with trusted adults.

Calendar review and personnel actions

Harper presented a proposed 2026–2027 school calendar selected by district staff that includes 169 instructional days and eight professional development days. The board discussed the possibility of seeking a state waiver to allow school to begin earlier than the current statutory start date, which could result in an earlier end to the school year in May.

In closed session, the board approved several personnel actions. Members accepted the resignation of Steven Kerr, who will step down as middle school principal effective June 30, 2026, after nine years in the role.

The board also approved the resignations of Mikkah Johnson, middle school football cheer coach; Triston Jones, high school National Honor Society sponsor; Trina Schindler, early childhood special education teacher; and Julie Thrower, middle school girls basketball coach.

Board members also approved the hiring of Ryan Christian as a 5–12 instrumental and vocal music teacher, with additional duties for marching band and contest band and vocal programs.