Another college acceptance to celebrate. Congratulations to Cadence Stogner on being accepted to Pitt State!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Congratulations, Kole Burden! NEO is your next stop!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Thomas Rowe is checking Fall Break off the senior calendar! One more milestone down and one step closer to graduation!
September Staff Spotlight: Melanie Robertson, Grove Lower Elementary
Grove Public Schools is proud to recognize Mrs. Melanie Robertson, first-grade teacher at Grove Lower Elementary (GLE), as the September Staff Member of the Month! With a passion for helping students grow, a creative approach to teaching, and a genuine heart for children, Robertson is making a positive impact in her classroom during her first year teaching first grade.
Although this is her first year teaching first grade, Robertson brings three previous years of experience teaching PreK. Education has always been a natural fit for her, coming from a family of educators that includes her parents, aunt, and uncle. Her love of working with children inspired her to follow in their footsteps and make a difference in the lives of young learners.
GLE Principal Dottie Smith recognizes Robertson for the care and encouragement she brings to her students each day.
“ I chose Melanie as teacher of the month because she genuinely cares about her students. She always encourages them to do their best, and they feel supported and valued. Her patience, kindness, and dedication make a difference every day with her students.”
One of Robertson's greatest joys is watching students become excited about learning to read. She especially loves working with students in small groups or one-on-one, where she can see their progress from the beginning of the school year and celebrate each new milestone.
Reading and vocabulary are major focuses in her classroom. Each week, students explore new vocabulary words displayed on their focus wall and hear stories that help bring those words to life. One of her favorite activities is the Heggerty Morning Phonemic Awareness program, which uses rhyming, hands-on activities, and motions to help students develop important early literacy skills. Her students also enjoy the Heggerty Hedgehog Award, a stuffed animal given to students who excel.
For Robertson, seeing students improve their skills is one of the most rewarding parts of teaching. She knows that every step forward represents meaningful progress, and the handwritten notes and drawings her students give her are treasures she keeps as reminders of the connections she has built with them.
Beyond academics, Robertson wants her students to learn the importance of kindness and being good citizens. She strives to teach them to be helpful rather than hurtful and to treat others with respect and compassion. She believes helping children develop these qualities is just as important as helping them succeed in the classroom.
When asked to describe herself in three words, Robertson chose organized, flexible, and creative, qualities that shine through in her teaching and daily classroom routines.
Robertson also appreciates the strong sense of community at Grove Public Schools. She loves how the Grove community rallies together and describes it as positive, supportive, and welcoming. That sense of belonging helps make her work even more meaningful.
Outside of school, Robertson enjoys spending time with her husband and two boys. The family loves going on adventures together, including visits to pumpkin patches and Jurassic Quest.
Through her patience, creativity, and dedication, Robertson is helping her first graders build essential reading skills, grow in confidence, and learn how to be kind and caring members of their community. Her commitment to helping every child feel supported and valued makes her a wonderful part of the GLE team.
Congratulations to Mrs. Melanie Robertson, our September Staff Member of the Month at Grove Lower Elementary!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Grove Public Schools is proud to recognize Mrs. Melanie Robertson, first-grade teacher at Grove Lower Elementary (GLE), as the September Staff Member of the Month! With a passion for helping students grow, a creative approach to teaching, and a genuine heart for children, Robertson is making a positive impact in her classroom during her first year teaching first grade.
Although this is her first year teaching first grade, Robertson brings three previous years of experience teaching PreK. Education has always been a natural fit for her, coming from a family of educators that includes her parents, aunt, and uncle. Her love of working with children inspired her to follow in their footsteps and make a difference in the lives of young learners.
GLE Principal Dottie Smith recognizes Robertson for the care and encouragement she brings to her students each day.
“ I chose Melanie as teacher of the month because she genuinely cares about her students. She always encourages them to do their best, and they feel supported and valued. Her patience, kindness, and dedication make a difference every day with her students.”
One of Robertson's greatest joys is watching students become excited about learning to read. She especially loves working with students in small groups or one-on-one, where she can see their progress from the beginning of the school year and celebrate each new milestone.
Reading and vocabulary are major focuses in her classroom. Each week, students explore new vocabulary words displayed on their focus wall and hear stories that help bring those words to life. One of her favorite activities is the Heggerty Morning Phonemic Awareness program, which uses rhyming, hands-on activities, and motions to help students develop important early literacy skills. Her students also enjoy the Heggerty Hedgehog Award, a stuffed animal given to students who excel.
For Robertson, seeing students improve their skills is one of the most rewarding parts of teaching. She knows that every step forward represents meaningful progress, and the handwritten notes and drawings her students give her are treasures she keeps as reminders of the connections she has built with them.
Beyond academics, Robertson wants her students to learn the importance of kindness and being good citizens. She strives to teach them to be helpful rather than hurtful and to treat others with respect and compassion. She believes helping children develop these qualities is just as important as helping them succeed in the classroom.
When asked to describe herself in three words, Robertson chose organized, flexible, and creative, qualities that shine through in her teaching and daily classroom routines.
Robertson also appreciates the strong sense of community at Grove Public Schools. She loves how the Grove community rallies together and describes it as positive, supportive, and welcoming. That sense of belonging helps make her work even more meaningful.
Outside of school, Robertson enjoys spending time with her husband and two boys. The family loves going on adventures together, including visits to pumpkin patches and Jurassic Quest.
Through her patience, creativity, and dedication, Robertson is helping her first graders build essential reading skills, grow in confidence, and learn how to be kind and caring members of their community. Her commitment to helping every child feel supported and valued makes her a wonderful part of the GLE team.
Congratulations to Mrs. Melanie Robertson, our September Staff Member of the Month at Grove Lower Elementary!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Thank you to Kelly Claggett from the Local Farm to Table for donating 50 bags of soil and 400 tulip bulbs to GLE. What an amazing gift! Blooms will be everywhere next spring! Love our community! We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
We are proud to celebrate Jenna Lynn and her acceptance to OSU!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
GPS Veterans Day Program 🇺🇸
Grove Public Schools invites our community to join us in honoring the brave men and women who have served our country! ❤️🤍💙
We are honored to welcome Guest Speaker Steven C. Thomas II, a United States Army veteran who continues to serve our community and our nation through his leadership with the American Legion.
📅 Program Schedule
8:15 a.m. – Veterans arrive at the Performing Arts Center (PAC)
8:45 a.m. – Breakfast for Veterans in the Black Box
9:30 a.m. – Veterans Day Assembly begins in the PAC
📣 Veterans, please RSVP by 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, November 4, by calling the GHS office at 918-786-2207, ext. 1237, or emailing veteransday@ridgerunners.net. Please include your name and the number of people attending.
Thank you to all who have served and sacrificed to protect our freedom. We look forward to honoring you!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Grove Public Schools invites our community to join us in honoring the brave men and women who have served our country! ❤️🤍💙
We are honored to welcome Guest Speaker Steven C. Thomas II, a United States Army veteran who continues to serve our community and our nation through his leadership with the American Legion.
📅 Program Schedule
8:15 a.m. – Veterans arrive at the Performing Arts Center (PAC)
8:45 a.m. – Breakfast for Veterans in the Black Box
9:30 a.m. – Veterans Day Assembly begins in the PAC
📣 Veterans, please RSVP by 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, November 4, by calling the GHS office at 918-786-2207, ext. 1237, or emailing veteransday@ridgerunners.net. Please include your name and the number of people attending.
Thank you to all who have served and sacrificed to protect our freedom. We look forward to honoring you!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Last Friday, GHS recognized two ladies who help keep GHS running smoothly—Janice Jeffries and Missy Skaggs—by awarding them the GOOSE (Get Out Of School Early) and sending them home a little early as a thank-you for all they do!
From answering phones to pulling up carpet and everything in between, these two do it all! We appreciate all the hard work, flexibility, and dedication Janice and Missy bring to GHS every day!
From answering phones to pulling up carpet and everything in between, these two do it all! We appreciate all the hard work, flexibility, and dedication Janice and Missy bring to GHS every day!
❤️ Red Ribbon Week at GMS! ❤️
Grove Middle School is celebrating Red Ribbon Week, October 26–30! Students are encouraged to dress up each day according to the themes on the attached flyer. Let’s stand together for a healthy, drug-free future!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Grove Middle School is celebrating Red Ribbon Week, October 26–30! Students are encouraged to dress up each day according to the themes on the attached flyer. Let’s stand together for a healthy, drug-free future!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Mr. Potato Head was in the building to celebrate! Mrs. Goins, Mrs. Walker, Ms. Farnelli's, and Ms.Kimsey's classes met their attendance challenges. Way to go! #attendancematters We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Go Ridgerunners!
Check out our new Grove Ridgerunners YouTube Channel!
High School Principal Bobby Kreutz asks students about their favorite Halloween Candy.
Please Like and Subscribe for more great Ridgerunner Vids!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZ-nkDMCJY0&list=PLOGy3ncBEVn8
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
High School Principal Bobby Kreutz asks students about their favorite Halloween Candy.
Please Like and Subscribe for more great Ridgerunner Vids!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZ-nkDMCJY0&list=PLOGy3ncBEVn8
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Let's play Bingo! GLE students who saved 40 Ridgy tickets in September played bingo with Ms. Smith today. Of course, there were great prizes!
September Staff Spotlight: Stephanie Hignite PreK Teacher, ECC
Grove Public Schools is proud to recognize Mrs. Stephanie Hignite, PreK teacher at the Grove Early Childhood Center (ECC), as the September Staff Member of the Month! With a warm heart, a passion for teaching, and a commitment to helping every child succeed, Hignite creates a classroom where young learners feel safe, loved, and excited to discover the world around them.
A proud Grove High School graduate from the Class of 2001, Hignite is in her fifth year teaching PreK at ECC. However, her dream of becoming a teacher began long before she ever stepped into her own classroom. As a first grader at Grove Public Schools, she had a wonderful teacher, Mrs. Pritchard, who inspired her to follow the same path.
Hignite spent six years working as a paraprofessional, gaining valuable experience with students who had a variety of learning needs. After spending time at home raising her children until they were school-aged, she felt the door open for her to finally pursue the teaching career she had dreamed of since childhood.
Her principal describes Hignite as a teacher who continually goes above and beyond for her students.
“Stephanie creates a warm, loving environment for her students. She is constantly finding innovative ways to engage them and values their individual needs. You can tell she deeply cares about her students and their learning. She goes above and beyond in all aspects of teaching. We are so fortunate to have her!”
Creating a sense of belonging is one of Hignite's biggest priorities. She wants every child to know that her classroom is a safe place to take risks, try new things, and even make mistakes while learning. Her students have opportunities to express themselves through singing, dancing, and hands-on activities that make learning fun and engaging.
When asked how she helps students who are struggling or having a difficult day, Hignite explained that she starts each day with positive affirmations and takes time to work through challenges with students individually. She also uses social-emotional books to teach problem-solving skills and help children develop tools they can carry with them throughout life.
For Hignite, some of the most rewarding moments come when she sees shy students begin to trust her, step outside their comfort zones, and blossom. She understands that transitioning from home to school can be a big adjustment for young children, making it especially meaningful to watch them grow in confidence, independence, and excitement for learning.
Being part of the Ridgerunner family holds a special place in Hignite's heart. Having grown up in Grove, she takes pride in working in the same district that helped shape her own childhood.
“I love being part of the Ridgerunner family because it gives me a sense of pride and holds a special place in my heart because this is where I am from. I love seeing the teachers I had growing up in town, and I love how we celebrate every milestone. Working here makes me feel valued, supported, and filled with Ridgerunner pride. This carries over into the classroom and spills over into the community, because We Are Grove.”
Outside the classroom, Hignite enjoys spending time outdoors, reading, spending time in the lake community, and reading her Bible. One of her favorite pastimes is fishing on Grand Lake with her dad. She has fond childhood memories of fishing with him using her Snoopy fishing rod, and today she enjoys making similar memories fishing with her own boys. Having grown up on a ranch surrounded by cows and the outdoors, she continues to appreciate the simple joys of family time and life outside.
Hignite's dedication to her students reflects the lasting impact a caring teacher can have during a child's earliest years of education. By creating a classroom filled with encouragement, trust, and opportunities to grow, she helps her students build a strong foundation for the years ahead.
Congratulations to Mrs. Stephanie Hignite, our September Staff Member of the Month at ECC!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Grove Public Schools is proud to recognize Mrs. Stephanie Hignite, PreK teacher at the Grove Early Childhood Center (ECC), as the September Staff Member of the Month! With a warm heart, a passion for teaching, and a commitment to helping every child succeed, Hignite creates a classroom where young learners feel safe, loved, and excited to discover the world around them.
A proud Grove High School graduate from the Class of 2001, Hignite is in her fifth year teaching PreK at ECC. However, her dream of becoming a teacher began long before she ever stepped into her own classroom. As a first grader at Grove Public Schools, she had a wonderful teacher, Mrs. Pritchard, who inspired her to follow the same path.
Hignite spent six years working as a paraprofessional, gaining valuable experience with students who had a variety of learning needs. After spending time at home raising her children until they were school-aged, she felt the door open for her to finally pursue the teaching career she had dreamed of since childhood.
Her principal describes Hignite as a teacher who continually goes above and beyond for her students.
“Stephanie creates a warm, loving environment for her students. She is constantly finding innovative ways to engage them and values their individual needs. You can tell she deeply cares about her students and their learning. She goes above and beyond in all aspects of teaching. We are so fortunate to have her!”
Creating a sense of belonging is one of Hignite's biggest priorities. She wants every child to know that her classroom is a safe place to take risks, try new things, and even make mistakes while learning. Her students have opportunities to express themselves through singing, dancing, and hands-on activities that make learning fun and engaging.
When asked how she helps students who are struggling or having a difficult day, Hignite explained that she starts each day with positive affirmations and takes time to work through challenges with students individually. She also uses social-emotional books to teach problem-solving skills and help children develop tools they can carry with them throughout life.
For Hignite, some of the most rewarding moments come when she sees shy students begin to trust her, step outside their comfort zones, and blossom. She understands that transitioning from home to school can be a big adjustment for young children, making it especially meaningful to watch them grow in confidence, independence, and excitement for learning.
Being part of the Ridgerunner family holds a special place in Hignite's heart. Having grown up in Grove, she takes pride in working in the same district that helped shape her own childhood.
“I love being part of the Ridgerunner family because it gives me a sense of pride and holds a special place in my heart because this is where I am from. I love seeing the teachers I had growing up in town, and I love how we celebrate every milestone. Working here makes me feel valued, supported, and filled with Ridgerunner pride. This carries over into the classroom and spills over into the community, because We Are Grove.”
Outside the classroom, Hignite enjoys spending time outdoors, reading, spending time in the lake community, and reading her Bible. One of her favorite pastimes is fishing on Grand Lake with her dad. She has fond childhood memories of fishing with him using her Snoopy fishing rod, and today she enjoys making similar memories fishing with her own boys. Having grown up on a ranch surrounded by cows and the outdoors, she continues to appreciate the simple joys of family time and life outside.
Hignite's dedication to her students reflects the lasting impact a caring teacher can have during a child's earliest years of education. By creating a classroom filled with encouragement, trust, and opportunities to grow, she helps her students build a strong foundation for the years ahead.
Congratulations to Mrs. Stephanie Hignite, our September Staff Member of the Month at ECC!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Nothing better than Football Fridays at GLE!
Check out the newest video on our new Grove Ridgerunners Youtube Channel !
The GMS Ridgy Press video is created by the middle school Journalism students guided by teacher Lisa Thomas.
Be sure to click the Like and Subscribe buttons, and share with your friends and family!
https://youtu.be/JpjNq4xM0nA
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
The GMS Ridgy Press video is created by the middle school Journalism students guided by teacher Lisa Thomas.
Be sure to click the Like and Subscribe buttons, and share with your friends and family!
https://youtu.be/JpjNq4xM0nA
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
It's game day, Ridgerunners!
Can't make it to the game? Catch all the action live using the link below!
Watch here: https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/4282465
Can't make it to the game? Catch all the action live using the link below!
Watch here: https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/4282465
September Staff Spotlight: Lisa Thomas, Grove Middle School
Grove Public Schools is proud to recognize Mrs. Lisa Thomas, Journalism and Yearbook teacher at Grove Middle School, as the September Staff Member of the Month! Through her creativity, dedication, and passion for storytelling, Thomas helps students discover their talents while bringing the stories of GMS to life.
Thomas has worked for Grove Public Schools for 14 years and is in her fourth year teaching Journalism and Yearbook. Teaching and working in advertising and marketing have always been dreams of hers, and her current role allows her to combine both passions.
GMS Principal Mindy Collins praises Thomas for bringing creativity and real-world learning into her Journalism 1, Journalism 2, and Yearbook classes. Students develop photography, writing, and interviewing skills while producing the school's monthly newspaper, The Ridgy Press. Thomas also organizes school pictures, writes grants to provide additional resources for her programs, and regularly attends school events to capture memories and cheer on students.
Her commitment to learning extends beyond the classroom. Thomas pursues professional development in broadcast journalism and artificial intelligence to bring fresh ideas to her lessons. She also provides students with unique opportunities to experience journalism firsthand, including visits to the KSN news station in Joplin, Missouri, and local courthouse hearings where students observe courtroom proceedings.
When asked what she hopes students take away from her classes, Thomas explained that she wants them to discover talents they may not know they have.
“I hope they find skills they didn't know they had. A lot of kids think that all they will do in journalism is write, but it's so much more than that. I want them to find out all that journalism has to offer other than the writing part, even though that is important also. I want them to branch out and try new things and learn the process of telling stories.”
One of Thomas's most rewarding experiences involved a student who initially struggled to connect with the class. When the lessons turned to photography, the student discovered a new interest, became more engaged, and began showing creativity and confidence. Watching that student find something they enjoyed and excelled at reinforced the importance of giving students opportunities to explore new skills.
Thomas also values the support and encouragement she receives from her colleagues. When asked what being part of the Ridgerunner family means to her, she shared:
“It's nice knowing I have a great group of people that will help when I need it. I have lots of support here, tips, encouragement. It's a big family, and I love working here at GMS. There are many teachers here I aspire to be like. They have high expectations and challenge you to reach them.”
That same encouragement carries into her advice for students having a difficult day. Thomas encourages them to seek help from a trusted teacher and focus on the positive things in their lives.
Outside of school, Thomas enjoys spending time with family, especially playing games that can get a little rowdy! She also loves kayaking at the lake, watching movies, and staying involved in her church. She is currently helping organize a mystery dinner event for the congregation.
Through her creativity and dedication, Thomas teaches students more than journalism skills. She helps them build confidence, explore new interests, and discover their ability to tell meaningful stories.
As Principal Collins shared, “Thank you, Mrs. Thomas, for helping students find their voices and tell the stories of GMS!”
Congratulations to Mrs. Lisa Thomas, our September Staff Member of the Month at Grove Middle School!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
Grove Public Schools is proud to recognize Mrs. Lisa Thomas, Journalism and Yearbook teacher at Grove Middle School, as the September Staff Member of the Month! Through her creativity, dedication, and passion for storytelling, Thomas helps students discover their talents while bringing the stories of GMS to life.
Thomas has worked for Grove Public Schools for 14 years and is in her fourth year teaching Journalism and Yearbook. Teaching and working in advertising and marketing have always been dreams of hers, and her current role allows her to combine both passions.
GMS Principal Mindy Collins praises Thomas for bringing creativity and real-world learning into her Journalism 1, Journalism 2, and Yearbook classes. Students develop photography, writing, and interviewing skills while producing the school's monthly newspaper, The Ridgy Press. Thomas also organizes school pictures, writes grants to provide additional resources for her programs, and regularly attends school events to capture memories and cheer on students.
Her commitment to learning extends beyond the classroom. Thomas pursues professional development in broadcast journalism and artificial intelligence to bring fresh ideas to her lessons. She also provides students with unique opportunities to experience journalism firsthand, including visits to the KSN news station in Joplin, Missouri, and local courthouse hearings where students observe courtroom proceedings.
When asked what she hopes students take away from her classes, Thomas explained that she wants them to discover talents they may not know they have.
“I hope they find skills they didn't know they had. A lot of kids think that all they will do in journalism is write, but it's so much more than that. I want them to find out all that journalism has to offer other than the writing part, even though that is important also. I want them to branch out and try new things and learn the process of telling stories.”
One of Thomas's most rewarding experiences involved a student who initially struggled to connect with the class. When the lessons turned to photography, the student discovered a new interest, became more engaged, and began showing creativity and confidence. Watching that student find something they enjoyed and excelled at reinforced the importance of giving students opportunities to explore new skills.
Thomas also values the support and encouragement she receives from her colleagues. When asked what being part of the Ridgerunner family means to her, she shared:
“It's nice knowing I have a great group of people that will help when I need it. I have lots of support here, tips, encouragement. It's a big family, and I love working here at GMS. There are many teachers here I aspire to be like. They have high expectations and challenge you to reach them.”
That same encouragement carries into her advice for students having a difficult day. Thomas encourages them to seek help from a trusted teacher and focus on the positive things in their lives.
Outside of school, Thomas enjoys spending time with family, especially playing games that can get a little rowdy! She also loves kayaking at the lake, watching movies, and staying involved in her church. She is currently helping organize a mystery dinner event for the congregation.
Through her creativity and dedication, Thomas teaches students more than journalism skills. She helps them build confidence, explore new interests, and discover their ability to tell meaningful stories.
As Principal Collins shared, “Thank you, Mrs. Thomas, for helping students find their voices and tell the stories of GMS!”
Congratulations to Mrs. Lisa Thomas, our September Staff Member of the Month at Grove Middle School!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
GUE Families! Please click on the link below to order yearbooks.
https://www.jostens.com/apps/store/productBrowse/1047503/Grove-Upper-Elementary-School/2027-Yearbook/20260811043425007109/CATALOG_SHOP/
For questions contact Kylie Hornback at Upper Elementary, khornback@ridgerunners.net.
#WeAreGrove #TheDistrictOfChampions
https://www.jostens.com/apps/store/productBrowse/1047503/Grove-Upper-Elementary-School/2027-Yearbook/20260811043425007109/CATALOG_SHOP/
For questions contact Kylie Hornback at Upper Elementary, khornback@ridgerunners.net.
#WeAreGrove #TheDistrictOfChampions
Red Ribbon Week at GUE! ❤️
Grove Upper Elementary will celebrate Red Ribbon Week October 26–30! ❤️🤍
Each day, students are encouraged to dress up according to the daily themes listed on the attached flyer.
Let’s show our school spirit while standing together for a healthy, drug-free future!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
#RedRibbonWeek
Grove Upper Elementary will celebrate Red Ribbon Week October 26–30! ❤️🤍
Each day, students are encouraged to dress up according to the daily themes listed on the attached flyer.
Let’s show our school spirit while standing together for a healthy, drug-free future!
We Are Grove, The District of Champions!
#RedRibbonWeek
