12/7/09 - Hancock Middle School Participates in the Sport of Bocce 
On Friday, December 04, 2009, twenty-eight students from Hancock Middle School supported Special Olympics of Missouri by participating in the sport of Bocce at the Italia-American Bocce Club. Bocce is a game of skill and strategy. The object is for one team to get as many of their balls (boccia) closer to the pallina (the smallest ball) than the opposing team's closest ball. Special Olympics brings athletes with and without disabilities together on the sports fields to learn from one another in a context of teamwork and participation.
Story & photos by Sandi Lindsey, SSD 7th Grade
The Winter 2009 Communicator 10/16/09 - Early Childhood/Administrative Center Nearing Completion 
The District is very close to the completion of the new Early Childhood/Administrative Center. As shown in the above photos, the walls are painted, and carpet and cabinetry are being installed. The weather has not cooperated recently, and the playground installation has been delayed, but we expect everything to be complete in the next couple of weeks. The bright colors of the Early Childhood Center really stand out, and are just one of the great aspects of this new facility.
Story written by Dr. Greg Clark
Alumni 2009 Fall Newsletter 9/18/09 - IMAGINATION THEATER ROLE-PLAYS ANTI-BULLYING IN THE TIGER DOME
Imagination Theater from Chicago, Illinois, had students and teachers sharing praises. The role-playing of bullying situations and how to handle them was outstanding. The actors and actresses pulled in student volunteers and had questions for the students. Staff members were very impressed by their performance and message.
Mr. Depung sent Mr. Dittrich an email stating, “This was one of the best assemblies yet.”
PATHS (Parents And Teachers Helping Students) paid for the performance along with two performances at the elementary school. Thank you PATHS for your hard work raising money for our students, school programs, and other needs within the district and community
Story written by Tom Dittrich
Photos by Cindy Foulk
9/4/09 - Early Childhood/Administrative Center Taking Shape 
The construction at the Early Childhood/Administrative Center is moving along rapidly. Progress is visible on the exterior of the building as contractors are applying the Dry Vit panels on the exterior of the building, which will add color and a surface for signage to the building. There is an equal level of progress on the interior. Contractors have nearly finished the drywall installation, so the layout of the classrooms and other spaces in the building are evident.
Story written by Dr. Greg Clark
9/1/09 - Middle School Art Teacher Wins $500 Gift Card 
At the end of last school year middle school art teacher, Angela Veninga , completed a member needs assessment survey for NAEA, (National Art Education Association), never imagining she would win a $500 gift card to Blick Art Materials for doing so.
“I was pleasantly surprised when I received the email with the news.”She said with a huge smile. “The money is going to buy supplies at the Middle school to help create and build a ceramics program within my curriculum.” Dan Geiler, middle school maintenance supervisor, hooked up the kiln as well as helped beautify and make the art room safe for students. “Soon we will have supplies to go with our new kiln!
“Our students will have the opportunity to learn another technique and art medium in the middle school art program, which I am very excited to be a part of. Feel free to come visit us any time. Our students' creativity is sure to impress you.”
Story & photo by Cynthia Foulk