In math classrooms at South Middle School students are actively engaged in learning as they work together at whiteboards to solve problems, share strategies, and explain their reasoning. This collaborative approach makes thinking visible and pushes students beyond simply finding an answer to truly understanding the process, while building confidence, communication, and perseverance. The level of discussion and teamwork reflects the power of high-quality instruction and the importance of developing critical thinking skills that will serve students well beyond the classroom. It is inspiring to see our Mustangs so invested in their learning and supporting one another as mathematicians.

Dear South Middle School Families,

March is a wonderful time to pause, reflect on all that has been accomplished so far, and set our sights on finishing the school year strong. With a little more than a quarter remaining, our students and staff have already demonstrated tremendous growth, perseverance, and dedication in their learning and leadership. Our current Leader in Me focus, Begin with the End in Mind, encourages all of us to think intentionally about the goals we still want to reach and the habits and choices that will help us get there. This is a great opportunity for students to revisit their academic and personal goals, stay organized, and continue building strong learning routines that will carry them successfully through the final months of school.

In just a few weeks, we will head into a well-deserved spring break (March 20-29). This provides an important time for rest, reflection, and recharging before we return for the final quarter of the year. When we come back, our focus will be on maintaining momentum, celebrating progress, and making the most of every learning opportunity. There are many exciting activities, important learning experiences, and special events still ahead, and we are committed to ensuring that every student finishes the year feeling confident, accomplished, and prepared for what comes next.

Thank you for your continued partnership, encouragement, and support at home. Together, we can help our students stay focused, positive, and motivated as we work toward a strong and successful finish to the school year.

It’s a great day to be a Mustang! 🐴

Thank you for your support,

Jackie Hottelman

We are excited to share two leadership updates for the 2026–2027 school year! Please join us in welcoming Mrs. Amelia Riney as our new 7th grade Assistant Principal. Mrs. Riney currently serves as an assistant principal at North Middle School and is truly coming back home to South Middle, where she spent many years as a beloved FACS teacher. She already knows and loves our community, and her strong relationships, student-centered mindset, and leadership experience will make her an incredible fit for our Mustang family.

At the same time, Mrs. Claybon will transition from her role as 7th grade assistant principal to serve as our 6th grade assistant principal. Mrs. Claybon has done an outstanding job supporting our 7th grade students, staff, and families, and we are thrilled to see her bring her strengths, passion, and dedication to the 6th grade team.

We are grateful to have such strong leaders in our building and look forward to the continued positive impact both Mrs. Riney and Mrs. Claybon will make at South Middle!

This week in Mustang Minutes, our students stepped confidently into their Community Leadership Roles (CLRs), making a meaningful impact throughout SMS. Students helped design bulletin boards that spread positivity, supported building clean-up efforts, brainstormed engaging lunch activities like trivia and bingo, and assisted with school announcements. Mrs. Sanders’ class also focused on campus beautification by collecting litter around the school grounds, showing pride in our shared space.

Students who were not participating in CLRs were equally engaged in impactful work. Mrs. Deterding’s Student Lighthouse team created dog toys for local shelter dogs, spreading care beyond our walls. Meanwhile, Ms. Hawkin’s Mustang Minutes class developed anti-bullying slides to promote kindness and inclusion. Together, these efforts reflect what it truly means to be a caring, capable, and connected community of leaders.

Abigail Verity 7th Grade

Abigail Verity is a motivated, positive, kind and caring student.  She is very determined to do well in class and this shows each day. Beyond Abbi’s academic success, she is always ready to lend a helping hand, offering support to classmates who may be struggling.She advocates for her own educational needs while also helping to create an environment where others feel encouraged to succeed.  Abbi’s passion for learning, cooperation with her peers and teachers, positive attitude, and a willingness to help others truly embodies the spirit of the Mustang Mission.  We are lucky to have Abigail as part of Team 7-3 this year!

William Rosenow 6th Grade

William is a fantastic leader in many ways.  He demonstrates great work ethic by asking questions when he needs help, by participating during class discussions, and by always pushing himself to do his best. Additionally, he is consistently respectful, helpful, and kind to everyone around him.  William truly exemplifies the Mustang Mission!

Owen Hildreth 7th Grade

Owen is consistent with his efforts in all areas of school. Owen has a positive attitude, is outgoing and continues to persevere through any challenges he comes across.  Owen sets goals for himself and achieves them.  He is kind, respectful, and always willing to help any and everyone around him.  

Maria Mosad 8th Grade

Maria is a wonderful girl. She comes to class every day with a positive attitude. She works hard on her school work. She always tries her best and has a desire to be successful. She gets along well with others and even helps her classmates with their assignments. She is a great role model to her peers and a joy to have in class.

This quick video walks you through exactly where to click on our website to submit your online form for a Club or Intramural. Visit sms.fz.k12.mo.us/o/sms, go to Clubs and Intramurals in the red banner in the middle of the home page, click on the "Online Permission Form" link, fill out the form and submit!  Easy, breezy, Mustang-approved! 

Once you submit the form, the Main Office will print it out and deliver it to the sponsor!

Mrs. Laura O’Keefe is a recipient of the Triple E Impact Award, presented by Superintendent Dr. St. Pierre, in recognition of her exceptional commitment to supporting, empowering, and equipping some of South Middle School’s highest-need students. As our Connect teacher, she provides specialized instruction in social skills and executive functioning while creating a structured, positive classroom environment where students feel safe, valued, and capable of growth—even during challenging moments. She equips students with meaningful coping strategies to navigate times of dysregulation and builds their confidence and independence for success in school and beyond. Mrs. O’Keefe also forms strong, compassionate partnerships with families, meeting them where they are and working alongside them to support their children. Her unwavering dedication, student-centered approach, and ability to build trusting relationships make a lasting impact on our school community and truly embody our mission to Educate, Empower, and Equip every learner.