Explore your interests. Plan your next step.

What careers interest you, and where might workers be needed? Explore Missouri’s workforce resources to learn about career opportunities, education and training requirements, and potential earnings.

There are many paths to a successful future, including apprenticeships, industry certificates, technical programs, two-year degrees, and four-year degrees.

Missouri Career & Workforce Projections
Visit Missouri Occupational Projections. Under “Long-Term Occupational Projections (Excel),” select “Statewide” to download Missouri’s workforce projections. Regional information is also available.

Find Careers That Fit You
Use Missouri Connections to explore your interests and develop your education and career plan. Ask your school counselor about student access.

Explore Professional Licensing
Some careers require a professional license. Visit Missouri Division of Professional Registration to explore requirements.

Plan for Education & Training Costs
Visit Journey to College for resources about planning and paying for education after high school.

Need help getting started?
Contact Mrs. Brook Fleshman, High School Counselor, at bfleshman@putnamcountyr1.net or 660-947-3361, ext. 309.

These resources support career exploration related to Missouri’s critical workforce needs and shortages under Section 167.902, RSMo.

Your next chapter starts with a plan.

Scholarships and financial aid can help make college, technical school, and career training more affordable. Start early, keep track of deadlines, and ask for help along the way.

Local & Regional Scholarships
Contact Mrs. Brook Fleshman for current scholarship opportunities, applications, and deadlines. Check back here as opportunities are added throughout the school year.

Complete Your FAFSA
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is used to apply for federal student aid. Colleges and other aid programs may also use your FAFSA information when awarding financial assistance.

Visit Federal Student Aid to get started. Choose the application for the school year when you plan to attend college or career school.

Explore Missouri Resources
Visit Journey to College for information about planning and paying for education after high school.

Stay Ready to Apply

• Review each scholarship’s eligibility requirements and deadline.

• Keep a list of your activities, leadership roles, employment, and community service.

• Request recommendation letters well before they are due.

• Gather required materials and review your application before submitting.

• Check your email regularly for updates and follow-up requests.

Questions or need help?
Contact Mrs. Brook Fleshman, High School Counselor, at bfleshman@putnamcountyr1.net or 660-947-3361, ext. 309.

Make a plan that fits your goals.

Your classes, study habits, and experiences help prepare you for what comes next. Your school counselor can help you explore options and make informed decisions along the way.

Course Selection & Graduation Planning
Work with your counselor to review required courses, explore electives, and understand how your class choices connect to graduation and your future plans. College, technical school, and training programs may have different admission requirements.

Testing & Preparation
Have questions about college entrance exams, career assessments, registration, or preparation resources? Contact your counselor for guidance about which assessments fit your goals, upcoming dates, and possible fee assistance.

College Credit & Career Training
Ask your counselor about available dual-credit courses, career and technical education programs, and other learning opportunities. Discuss eligibility, costs, and how credits may transfer before enrolling.

Transcripts & School Records
Contact the high school office or counselor for instructions on requesting an official transcript. Allow time for processing before application deadlines. (High School Office: 660-947-3361, ext. 305.) 

Need Help Staying on Track?
If you’re struggling with assignments, organization, or a class, start by talking with your teacher. Your counselor can also help you identify support and build a manageable plan.

Questions about your academic plan?
Contact your school counselor using the information above.

Growing confidence. Building good habits.

Middle school brings new responsibilities, friendships, and opportunities. Students and families can work together to build habits that support success now and prepare students for high school.

Stay Organized & Keep Up With Schoolwork
Check assignments and grades regularly, keep materials organized, and make a plan for unfinished work. If you’re confused or falling behind, ask your teacher for help early.

Navigate Friendships & Everyday Challenges
Learning to communicate, handle disagreements, and include others takes practice. Your counselor can help you talk through concerns and consider your next steps. Tell a trusted adult about bullying or situations that make you feel unsafe.

Explore Interests & Future Possibilities
Notice what you enjoy, try new activities, and ask questions about careers. Middle school is a time to discover your strengths and explore possibilities—you don’t need to have your whole future figured out.

Prepare for High School
As high school approaches, talk with your counselor about course choices, expectations, activities, and ways to make the transition smoother.

For Parents & Guardians
A regular check-in can open the door to helpful conversations. Try asking, “What went well today?” or “What’s something you could use help with?” Reach out to teachers or the counselor when concerns arise.

Connect With Your Counselor
Contact Mrs. Samantha Hendershott, Middle School Counselor, at shendershott@putnamcountyr1.net or 660-947-3361, ext. 336.

Small steps. Strong foundations.

Elementary school is a time to build friendships, practice independence, and develop a love of learning. Families and school staff can work together to help children feel connected, capable, and ready to grow.

Build Kindness & Friendship Skills
Practice taking turns, including others, listening, and using kind words. Ask your child, “How did you help someone today?” Remind them that small acts of kindness can make a big difference.

Name Feelings & Practice Problem-Solving
Help your child put feelings into words and practice what to do next: pause, take a breath, explain the problem, and ask for help when needed. Calm moments are a good time to practice these skills together.

Create Everyday Routines
Keep a familiar routine for homework, reading, and preparing for school. Packing a backpack and choosing clothes the night before can make mornings easier.

Encourage Independence
Give children opportunities to handle age-appropriate responsibilities, make choices, and learn from mistakes. Recognize their effort, persistence, and progress.

Stay Connected With School
Check school messages and talk with your child about their day. Contact the teacher or counselor with concerns about friendships, classroom experiences, or changes that may affect your child at school.

Connect With Your Counselor
Contact Mrs. Mandy Tipton, Elementary School Counselor, at mtipton@putnamcountyr1.net or 660-947-3361, ext. 335.

Stay connected. Take the next step together.

Every student faces challenges along the way. Open conversations, everyday routines, and support from trusted adults can help families navigate school and life together.

Make Time to Talk
Choose a regular time to check in without distractions. Ask open-ended questions such as, “What was the best part of your day?” or “What’s been difficult lately?” Listen before jumping in with a solution.

Break Big Tasks Into Small Steps
When an assignment or responsibility feels overwhelming, identify one manageable starting point. Make a short plan, take the first step, and recognize progress along the way.

Practice Respectful Communication
Encourage students to explain what happened, describe how they feel, and ask for what they need respectfully. Work together to find solutions, and involve a trusted adult when help is needed.

Partner With School
Let your child’s teacher or counselor know about concerns or family changes that may affect the school day. Sharing relevant information helps staff better understand and support your student.

Reach Out for Support
Contact your school counselor with questions about friendships, school concerns, academic challenges, or connecting with community resources. Use the counselor contact information above to get started.

School email and online messages are not monitored continuously. For an immediate emergency, call 911.