Gasconade County R-2 students returned to classes on Aug. 24 with an estimated 1,710 learners enrolled district-wide, early morning programs ready and first week events scheduled.

Superintendent Dr. Staci Johnson said the first day was smooth.

“We had a great first day,” Johnson said. “I think everyone ended up where they were supposed to be.”

She said she spent time in each of the buildings throughout the day.

“I was able to be there for class meetings at the high school,” Johnson said. “I am very excited about the class of 2027. A lot of great leaders and kids who are going to make for a successful year at the high school.

“Gerald Elementary kicked off the year with their normal morning meeting, with the building together in the gym. They dismissed after the pledge.

“Owensville Elementary School, I was able to visit during lunch, and we had several students who were excited to have a school chicken patty again.

“At the middle school, I got to go on the tour the teachers take the sixth graders on, getting used to the building and seeing the places they will be. They were very excited to start their middle school experience.”

Johnson attributed part of the district’s successful first day to the early online registration opportunity, which many families took.

“We really appreciate our families getting the online registration filled out prior to first day,” she said. “It helped the first day go smoothly.”

Additional student registration paperwork included the free and reduced lunch applications. For the last two years, the district has jointly funded student meals between itself and Provision Two, a program that pays for all participants eligible for the free and reduced lunch program.

Johnson estimated the district has received about 600 free and reduced lunch applications so far.

“We are still sending home and accepting free and reduced lunch forms as families begin to realize they are getting charged for lunch again,” Johnson said. “I think those will start coming in. We’ve had 600 turned in already.”

The district is also in its second year of the teacher-only childcare program and the third year for ExcEL, the before-and-after-school program.

The day care program is for ages 0-3, before they are enrolled in kindergarten. Teachers and some eligible students may pay $12 a day per child.

The ExcEL (Excellence in Extended Learning) program began the first week with early morning care only.

“All buildings except the high school were open at 7 this morning for before care,” Johnson said. “The after school portion of the program begins on Sept. 8.”

Johnson also invited students and the community to attend Alumni Night on Aug. 28, which will include the first home softball and football games and a joint tailgate event before each. Alumni will also be recognized. Former members of the Owensville High School Band who will be in attendance are encouraged to go on the district’s Facebook page, locate the link to the event and fill out their information.

“I’m really excited for Tackle the Talk this Friday night at the first home softball and football games at the high school complex,” Johnson said.

The board of education will also be tailgating at the event.