St. Joseph School District officials are continuing to prepare for the shift into a two high school model next school year  

After surveying staff of what schools, they would prefer to be at next school year, Superintendent Ashly Mcginnis says the current phase of the reorganization is meeting with those effected staff members 

"With Eugene Field and Pershing being retired sites, and also Lafayette becoming a middle school, those were our main priority staff at that time,” McGinnis says on the KFEQmunnity show.  “And so, we’ve had those one-on-one meetings with every staff member from those buildings, and we’ve actually met with Central High School and Benton High School, because there’s going to be some movement.” 

McGinnis says with students moving from Lafayette to Central, which will impact staffing at that high school, also pointing out staffing could still be impacted by retirements or teachers resigning.  

McGinnis says while discussions have been tough, but also gives credit to staff who seem to be understanding of the current reality 

"And most of them have been team players, and we’ve had to go back to staff and say we really need this specific skillset at Benton High School or at Central High School and would you be willing to help us, or at Carden Park,” McGinnis explains.  “And so, all of our schools have different needs, and we have those conversations with our staff, we’re trying to work with people but we also some specific needs that we need help with.” 

McGinnis says it's huge for the district to have staff willing to step up into positions of need to help fill staffing in the district.   

As discussions around staffing happen in the St. Joseph School District with the shift to two high schools next school year, district officials are also being sure to keep the students top of mind.  

McGinnis says the recently developed Student Advisory Council, comprised of students from all three high schools, has been meeting once a month with her. 

McGinnis says the first meeting centered around students concerns and specific items preserving history, but things changed during this months meeting McGinnis says 

"I was amazed by our students, they are leaders, and they didn’t want to just talk about the concerns or the issues, they wanted to be problem solvers and think of things to propose to me as steps of action,” McGinnis says.  “And so, we actually broke down to three committees.” 

The three committees focus around academics, climate and culture, and the enrollment increases at each school.  McGinnis says students are mindful of the problems but are also working to create solutions collaboratively. 

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph School District working with staff, students as reorganization efforts continue

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/samanthajackson/">Samantha Jackson</a>

JEFFERSON CITY — The House Education Committee is considering a bill that would bring driver’s education back to Missouri public schools at the elementary and secondary education levels.

Rep. Rodger Reedy, R-Windsor, sponsor of&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2195&amp;year=2026&amp;code=R" target="_blank">House Bill 2195</a>, told the committee at a hearing on Wednesday that he aims to allow public schools to integrate driver education courses in their curricula for students.

Reedy said he believes teaching students about the rules of the road will help reduce the teen fatality rate and make the roads safer for everyone.

Reedy said he recognizes that some schools do have driver education courses, but they are usually in the summer and have a fee attached to them. His bill will be implemented in courses that students are already learning during the school year and will not have a fee.

Students would learn about obtaining a driver’s permit, attitudes, habits and skills on safely operating a vehicle, as well as instruction on distracted driving, traffic stops, and learn data on driver safety in the state. The bill would not require students to actually drive vehicles.

“Anytime we have better-educated drivers, I think we are a safer community,” Reedy said.

According to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.savemolives.com/mcrs/teen-drivers" target="_blank">Missouri Department of Transportation</a>, the leading cause of teen deaths in Missouri is car crashes; in 2023, 133 people were killed in teen-driver-involved traffic crashes.

The bill asks the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to receive instructional lessons from school districts and professional organizations for safe driving programs. Schools can voluntarily adopt these programs into their classrooms with no cost.

Nick Chabarria, a public and government affairs specialist with AAA of Missouri and the chair of the Missouri Driver Education Coalition, expressed support for this “sensible, low-cost solution” in terms of fostering driver safety at a young age.

“Missouri teens, compared to surrounding states that do require some form of formal driver education, are about 80% more likely on average to be involved in a crash compared to states that don’t,” Chabarria said.

Kimberly St. Clair, inventor and founder of Doc Dash, a federally patented communication safety system for drivers, police, and EMS during traffic stops and medical emergencies, expressed support for the bill as well.

“The loss of young drivers serves as a solemn reminder that behind every statistic is a family and a community that is forever changed,” St. Clair said.

Doc Dash has been implemented in five schools, teaching students traffic laws, compliance, safe driving behavior, and clear communication to officials during traffic stops, crashes and emergencies. Their curriculum also includes mock traffic stops and scenarios for students to get a full demonstration of real-world events.

“These students are not only reminded what the law requires, but why compliance matters, and how speed, distraction, documentation, readiness, and respectful engagement are all very necessary,” St. Clair said.

Having trained nearly 600 students, St. Clair says her organization is “more than prepared” to provide curriculum lessons to DESE to enhance students’ knowledge on driver education and safety.

This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/local/house-bill-would-bring-drivers-ed-courses-back-to-schools/article_2ca7bee2-f5c8-4c26-a78a-fb5d836ba097.html#tncms-source=topstory" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>. It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;

House bill would bring driver’s ed courses back to Missouri schools

BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

The two online bookies who financed the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/opponents-of-missouri-sports-betting-amendment-pull-tv-ads-in-campaigns-homestretch/">campaign to legalize sports wagering</a>&nbsp;in Missouri have won $120 million from bets placed in the state but so far have not had to pay any tax on those profits.

FanDuel and DraftKings handled 73% of the $928 million wagered in Missouri during the first two months of legal sports wagering, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mgc.dps.mo.gov/SportsWagering/sw_financials/FY26_SWFinReport/01_Jan/SW%20Monthly%20Financials%200126.pdf" target="_blank">latest financial report</a>&nbsp;from the Missouri Gaming Commission. The two companies have 77% of the profits from those bets, but offset the entire amount won from players by deductions for promotional wagers and other costs.

Their winnings so far are about three times what it cost the companies in the 2024 election.

Missouri taxes the operator winnings of mobile platforms and casino-based retail sports at 10%, but the constitutional amendment passed in 2024 allows a write-off of all promotional costs, federal taxes and other business costs, from the taxable amount.

Sports wagering launched in Missouri on Dec. 1, and bettors&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/30/missouri-sports-betting-tops-543m-in-first-month-but-deductions-leave-state-with-only-521k/">placed $543 million in bets</a>. The total fell in January but in the two months combined, the eight mobile providers and the eight retail locations have netted $157.7 million from lost wagers, with 99% of the profits going to mobile platforms.

The state has received $659,196 in taxes over two months, or just less than one-half of 1% of the amount won by the online and retail bookmakers.

“The latest data shows more Missourians are ditching their bookies and illegal websites and enjoying the safeguards and convenience of placing sports bets legally,” Jack Cardetti, spokesman for the&nbsp;&nbsp;Sports Betting Alliance, said in a statement to The Independent. “This initial success is building a rock-solid foundation that will ensure Missouri receives the ongoing benefits of legal, regulated sports betting for decades to come, including millions in permanent, dedicated tax revenues.”

DraftKings and FanDuel are dominating the market.

The two companies are almost equal in their share so far. Players wagered $339.7 million on the DraftKings platform and $338.4 million on the FanDuel app. DraftKings reported it won $54.4 million over the first two months, while FanDuel won $65.6 million.

During the 2024 campaign, FanDuel and DraftKings each contributed $20 million for the $43 million effort. Major Missouri sports teams contributed the rest.

Other than licensing fees, neither company has paid the state any taxes.

DraftKings has $20.6 million in net write-offs it will carry forward before it has any tax due. FanDuel has $8.1 million.

The total amount of unrealized write-offs for all eight mobile bookmakers is $33.8 million.

FanDuel, DraftKings take Missouri profits nearly triple their cost for sports wagering campaign

Emery Sapp &amp; Sons, Inc., working with the Missouri Department of Transportation, has been contracted to replace the Marlowe Branch Creek Bridge in Worth County Missouri Route 46.

 The bridge is scheduled to close beginning Thursday, March 5.

Traffic impacts include the Marlowe Branch Creek Bridge on Route 46 will be closed from March 5 through May 2026. Motorists will need to seek an alternate route during the closure.

As a part of the project, the West Fork Grand River Bridge replacement on Route W in Worth County was completed Feb. 12.

MoDOT reminds drivers to work with crews by always buckling up, keeping your phone down, slowing down and moving over in work zones.

Worth County Route 46 bridge to close beginning March 5

If you're looking for something to do around town, here are a few events going on in St. Joseph.

There are a few days left to enjoy St. Joseph Restaurant Week. The last day is Sunday, March 1. For more information, visit <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fstjrestaurantweek.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExNGVhVFcyWHBVOVZHN1JTOHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5V-bnVyknyCHZ5JyUI-2bcSLHjzrUXoszGZWJfi7lTgaMR-XUtfWg3ELoVjQ_aem_w4Aw4Vb8U66KwYRaUTU92A&amp;h=AT4rLrP4ZMBZxDibog0dHT3CNe1wbWtDF4j_yDvOb5u13BQW9r35zmrxp1bWI7BhrSTCcfu5a_lk6z_fMtC5ZPkxqnCDYV8gWtMUrgPEjRft2jP6MRDioSShjQ6dyHhjYhsCP_mmqQte_V7T&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT6MNL0WfUB5dO2hcyrFkEwlFshz3CXI0Z9hB-m619oGIQmD41S27D0l_3zy74czJRjCPlmKfogdtoznQBr4Lh6FpQYl4jp08IBAJQBmsm3RILy-Icu85fLtDp7NCOdDZiciHxK4-FQPqxpwZKu0oFBECaz2dZhBoK3MIoZJjEL3L6JldPgtyXEYViopeTm2Ypikx6XnCIAFPQ5lvgn9o0_mRg" target="_blank">stjrestaurantweek.com.</a>

Get your tastebuds ready as the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ucpnwmo?__cft__[0]=AZaboAHcLlvIoB7lm3np2Lr5fP_GpaKrB9Ea3xHQmZq9eNtjdE5sdLjA-nLHQDEDwJ7O4filp7qgGMvd_ldGq5nRe-brUpFGa2t1MkLny43qamW9KKnSUzybG-2ahpT295L6FRc6xdqzh_QHsk3SRisn8WN9Kd84KrXzXOlj5vCJcflLKRC-FBpwCIV2v6ePCzY&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">UCP of Northwest Missouri</a> Chili Challenge will take place this Sunday, March 1, at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/StJosephCivicArena?__cft__[0]=AZaboAHcLlvIoB7lm3np2Lr5fP_GpaKrB9Ea3xHQmZq9eNtjdE5sdLjA-nLHQDEDwJ7O4filp7qgGMvd_ldGq5nRe-brUpFGa2t1MkLny43qamW9KKnSUzybG-2ahpT295L6FRc6xdqzh_QHsk3SRisn8WN9Kd84KrXzXOlj5vCJcflLKRC-FBpwCIV2v6ePCzY&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">St. Joseph Civic Arena</a>. For more information, visit <a href="https://ucpnwmo.org/chili-challenge/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExNGVhVFcyWHBVOVZHN1JTOHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6_HhghKqOHbKnVs7HdY2eERoCa-4SrsY2p6FMr0DczpYlhdI_qNsF34Zp0qQ_aem_xY98b16TuaTcfwgD6-mv0Q" target="_blank">https://ucpnwmo.org/chili-challenge/</a>.

Take a trip to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RemingtonNatureCenter?__cft__[0]=AZaboAHcLlvIoB7lm3np2Lr5fP_GpaKrB9Ea3xHQmZq9eNtjdE5sdLjA-nLHQDEDwJ7O4filp7qgGMvd_ldGq5nRe-brUpFGa2t1MkLny43qamW9KKnSUzybG-2ahpT295L6FRc6xdqzh_QHsk3SRisn8WN9Kd84KrXzXOlj5vCJcflLKRC-FBpwCIV2v6ePCzY&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Remington Nature Center</a> to check out the weekly fish feedings on Fridays at 10:30 a.m. The event is included with regular admission to the nature center.

Head to the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MissouriTheater?__cft__[0]=AZaboAHcLlvIoB7lm3np2Lr5fP_GpaKrB9Ea3xHQmZq9eNtjdE5sdLjA-nLHQDEDwJ7O4filp7qgGMvd_ldGq5nRe-brUpFGa2t1MkLny43qamW9KKnSUzybG-2ahpT295L6FRc6xdqzh_QHsk3SRisn8WN9Kd84KrXzXOlj5vCJcflLKRC-FBpwCIV2v6ePCzY&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Missouri Theater and Theater Building</a> March 6 - 8 as <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rrtstjoe?__cft__[0]=AZaboAHcLlvIoB7lm3np2Lr5fP_GpaKrB9Ea3xHQmZq9eNtjdE5sdLjA-nLHQDEDwJ7O4filp7qgGMvd_ldGq5nRe-brUpFGa2t1MkLny43qamW9KKnSUzybG-2ahpT295L6FRc6xdqzh_QHsk3SRisn8WN9Kd84KrXzXOlj5vCJcflLKRC-FBpwCIV2v6ePCzY&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Robidoux Resident Theatre</a> presents Annie. For more information, visit <a href="https://bit.ly/4sctTO8?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExNGVhVFcyWHBVOVZHN1JTOHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR7uWNRdHv-h-8KipZ5Dkie5XqHU39tAU6MTWgV7w1buf-tPDkBskL7tcEV0Qg_aem_JHzw0fy3rWaAZtVFJvB2tQ" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/4sctTO8</a>.

Check out some events going on around St. Joseph

The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce will host its 22nd annual Farm City Breakfast from 7:00 - 9:00 a.m. on Friday, March 13, at Word of Life Church, 3902 NE Riverside Road. 

As one of the Chamber’s best-attended single-day events, the breakfast recognizes the essential role of farmers, producers, and the agribusiness sector in the local economy.

This year’s keynote speaker is Dan Meers, who recently retired after more than 35 years as "KC Wolf" for the Kansas City Chiefs. The NFL’s longest-tenured mascot and a member of the Mascot Hall of Fame, Meers has performed at over 10,000 events across 12 countries, including five Super Bowls. Beyond his career in professional sports, Meers is a highly regarded motivational speaker known for his infectious enthusiasm and optimism.

The event will also feature the presentation of the second annual Farm Family of the Year Award to the Scott Gann family. A multi-generational farming operation, the Ganns are being recognized for their commitment to the industry and the community. Scott Gann, a past chairman of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, also remains active in the region through his local construction company.

Proceeds from the breakfast support Agriculture Future of America (AFA) Scholarships for area students pursuing agricultural degrees. Natalie Hawn, President and CEO of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce, noted that the event serves as a vital networking hub for hundreds of producers and agribusiness professionals to discuss industry issues while funding the education of future leaders.

Tickets for the event are $12 per person, with registration available online at <a href="http://saintjoseph.com">saintjoseph.com</a>. The LifeLine Group serves as the presenting sponsor for this year's program.

St. Joseph Chamber to host 22nd Annual Farm City Breakfast featuring former KC Wolf Dan Meers

Despite unclear enforcement mechanisms for restrictions on transgender athletes, House lawmakers approved legislation to remove the law’s expiration date

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ahanshaw/">Annelise Hanshaw</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

The Missouri House passed a&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB%201663" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;along party lines Thursday that would remove the expiration date on the state’s restrictions for transgender athletes.

In 2023, the General Assembly&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/05/10/missouri-house-sends-bill-banning-transgender-health-care-for-minors-to-governor/">passed a law</a>&nbsp;that prevents transgender athletes from competing according to their gender identity alongside a ban on gender-affirming care for minors. Democrats in the Senate filibustered the bill, leading to a compromise that added a four-year expiration date.

Every year since the law’s passage, lawmakers have filed bills seeking to scrap the sunset.

During Monday’s debate, House Democrats said that the provision gave lawmakers time to consider research on transgender athletes and determine whether restrictions were fair. That learning process, they argued, is not complete.

“Removing the sunset should only happen if we as a collective have undertaken a thorough review and study about the topic,” said state Rep. Pattie Mansur, a Kansas City Democrat. “We have not discussed this topic as a collective.”

The bill’s sponsor, state Rep. Brian Seitz, a Republican from Branson, said the expiration “was just a matter of capitulation.” Making the restrictions permanent, he argued, is necessary to “give female athletes a level playing field.”

Allowing transgender women to compete “undermines the fairness and opportunity” for women to succeed, he said.

Other House Republicans spoke about maintaining a competitive environment for women’s athletics, saying transgender women had an “advantage.”

“If we erode sex-based protections in athletics, we do not expand opportunities,” said state Rep. Cathy Jo Loy, a Republican from Carthage. “We would collapse the very category that allowed generations of women to compete fairly.”

Prior to the law’s passage, regulations on transgender athletes were left to organizations like the Missouri State High School Activities Association and the National Collegiate Athletic Association. MSHSAA’s policy allowed transgender athletes that have been taking hormone-suppression medication for at least one year to compete according to their gender identity, opening the door for 12 transgender athletes to try out for school athletics from 2012-2022.

State Rep. Wick Thomas, a Kansas City Democrat and the House’s first nonbinary member, pointed out that more bills have been filed targeting transgender athletes than the number of transgender athletes in Missouri high school sports.

“That seems like an incredible misuse of time and taxpayer dollars to spend so many hours, every single year constantly attacking those 12 kids who tried to play recreational sports with their friends,” they said.

Thomas also worried about the law’s enforcement, saying “anyone deemed too masculine will be under investigation.”

The law gives authority to the state’s education and higher education departments to establish enforcement mechanisms, but&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/08/21/enforcement-unclear-as-missouri-approaches-transgender-athlete-restrictions/">neither created such rules</a>. A year after the law became effective, education department officials denied any responsibility,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/09/04/missouri-schools-lack-public-enforcement-policies-for-transgender-athlete-restrictions/">telling The Independent</a>&nbsp;that the department “is not involved in school athletics and activities.”

The legislation also gives students and their guardians the ability to sue if they are “deprived of an athletic opportunity” because of a transgender athlete in Missouri.

State Rep. Raychel Proudie, a Democrat from Ferguson, told lawmakers Monday that she didn’t intend to speak during the House’s debate of the bill. But thinking about how people might try to enforce the restrictions worried her.

The law may have an outsized effect on Black women, who Proudie says are too often “masculinized.”

“How do we enforce this when someone decides they don’t want to face an athletic team and says the players look a little too masculine,” she said, worrying that they might inflict “invasive tests” to determine an athlete’s sex.

Seitz did not comment on the prospect of athletes being subject to physical inspection, reiterating that the bill was only “removing the sunset” from a law currently in effect.

The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration.

Bill to make transgender athlete ban permanent passes Missouri House

GENTRY COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just before 8:30a.m. Thursday in Gentry County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Ford F150 driven by a 28-year-old King City man was northbound on U.S. 169 at the King City city limits. The pickup crossed the center line and struck a southbound 2011 GMC Sierra driven by a 26-year-old King City man, head-on.&nbsp;

EMS transported both drivers and a 56-year-old male passenger in the GMC pickup to Mosaic in St. Joseph. The drivers and the passenger were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

3 hospitalized in St. Joe after head-on pickup crash

Area residents are encouraged to practice safe weather procedures next week during during Severe Weather Preparedness Week.

Meteorologist Dan Holiday says this is the time of year to implement your plan of action during severe weather events. "It can be in the form of damaging winds or storms or tornados, really anything that could damage your home, vehicle or you. You should know where your safe place is going to be"

Holiday adds the Midwest often sees the most severe weather between late April into early June. "However, by the time we get to mid-March, there are weather ingredients that come together and we can see more significant weather patterns."

Missouri will hold a statewide tornado drill on March 4, with a suggested time of 11:00 a.m.

Sgt. Shane Hux, with the Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop H in St. Joseph, recommends keeping an eye on the weather, especially if you are driving. "The important thing to remember is that severe storms can form very quickly."

Hux says if a tornado is spotted, get into the nearest building as quickly as possible for shelter. Hux emphasizes that drivers should not take shelter under overpasses. "Overpasses are not safe during tornados. Get into a nearby building. However, if you're driving in rural areas and see a funnel cloud, take cover in the nearest ditch and cover your head, but watch for rapidly-rising water."

Hux notes some other tips to help prepare for severe weather:

1. Never attempt to drive through water on the road

2. If you become stuck in water, always move to higher ground if you can safely do so

4. Dial Star 55 to connect with the nearest Troop headquarters

Stay ahead of spring weather during Severe Weather Preparedness Week

A 44-year-old Columbia, Missouri, man has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for a multi-state crime spree involving drug trafficking and firearm possession, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.

Walter Antwine Moore received his 180-month sentence from U.S. District Judge Greg Kays following guilty pleas to drug distribution and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

The legal proceedings consolidated crimes committed across three different jurisdictions between late 2022 and early 2023.

The earliest incident occurred on December 6, 2022, at a casino in Quapaw, Oklahoma. After losing over $1,000 at a blackjack table, Moore became belligerent toward a dealer and made threats involving "yellow police tape and sirens." When Quapaw Marshals attempted a pat-down, Moore reached into his jacket and tried to flee. During a struggle with deputies, a baggie in Moore’s possession burst, scattering 913 blue fentanyl pills across the floor.

A month later, on January 7, 2023, police in St. Joseph, Missouri, responded to a convenience store report of a man stealing potato chips and attempting to sell drugs. Upon searching Moore’s vehicle, officers discovered:

The final confrontation took place on February 10, 2023, at a train station in Kansas City, Missouri. When interdiction detectives questioned Moore upon his arrival, he became confrontational and attempted to run. After being tackled by tactical officers, investigators recovered a cellophane-wrapped bundle nearby containing approximately 2,300 fentanyl pills.

The case was a collaborative effort between the Western District of Missouri and the Northern District of Oklahoma. The investigation involved multiple agencies, including the DEA, ATF, the Quapaw Nation Marshals Service, and various regional drug task forces. Moore was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Trey Alford and Adam McConney.

Columbia man gets 15 years after St. Joe, Kansas City, Oklahoma drug busts

Missouri Western State University is reporting a second consecutive year of spring enrollment growth, fueled by a significant rise in student retention and a surge in local freshman enrollment.

According to recent spring census data, the university’s total headcount rose to 3,132 students, a 1.52% increase over the previous year. This growth highlights a sustained upward trend for the institution following several years of strategic reorganization.

The most significant data point in the census was a 5% increase in overall Fall-to-Spring retention. University officials noted that the gains were particularly strong among non-traditional students. Retention for adult learners (ages 25 and older) jumped 7%, while traditional student retention saw a 3% uptick.

“MoWest continues to build meaningful momentum, not only in who is choosing us, but in how well we are supporting students once they arrive,” said Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy, president of Missouri Western. She attributed the success to a sharpened focus on the student experience and expanded support initiatives.

The university saw a major influx of new degree-seeking freshmen, with an increase of 126 students compared to last spring. Much of this growth originated locally; Buchanan County student headcount rose by 8.54%, while total enrollment across the university’s entire service region grew by 3.82%.

New student pipelines also showed modest but steady gains. Transfer enrollment increased by 2.9%, and new first-time, first-year students rose by 2.33%.

The enrollment report highlighted several academic programs that are driving current interest. Growth was most notable in healthcare, education, and technology sectors, including:

University leadership credited the alignment of these academic programs with regional workforce demands as a key factor in attracting both traditional and adult learners. As the university looks toward the Fall term, officials say they plan to continue implementing strategic initiatives aimed at expanding regional access and maintaining this upward trajectory.

MWSU reports second consecutive year of spring enrollment growth

The wheat market led row crops higher on Friday, shaking off an otherwise sluggish week as traders took Thursday's successful hold of chart support, and lack of a deal between the U.S. and Iran as reason enough to halt profit-taking and follow the influence of higher crude oil prices to close the week. Along those lines, there were reports that Thursday's negotiations made some progress, and talks are expected to continue. Meanwhile, the surge in wheat prices positively influenced corn futures as well, which rose for the third straight session while covering technical ground. Soybeans were mixed through much of the session, struggling with resistance and hedging pressure as prices tread among November highs currently, but well supported to the downside by trade optimism and concerning conditions for the Argentine crop and ultimately managing a very strong close for the week. In outside markets, equities moved sharply lower again with the Dow Jones Industrial Average threatening a monthly loss for February, which would be the first monthly loss since April of 2025.

May corn closed up 5 cents and July corn was up 4 3/4 cents. May soybeans closed up 7 1/4 cents and July soybeans were up 6 1/2 cents. May KC wheat closed up 18 1/4 cents, May Chicago wheat was up 17 cents, May Minneapolis wheat was up 14 cents.

Live cattle futures posted active pressure across all futures contracts, with spot month February contracts trading $2 per cwt lower, while other nearby contracts traded $3 to $3.60 per cwt lower. Continued strong pressure in outside markets is adding additional pressure to the entire live cattle complex. Cash cattle markets are starting to improve with light trade reported in parts of Kansas at $244, $5 lower than last week's weighted averages. A few live deals are also being reported in parts of Nebraska. Some bids are now on the table in Texas, but so far, they are being passed. Boxed beef prices are Higher: choice up $1.08 ($378.97) and select up $3.44 ($374.23) with a movement of 48.35 loads (38.87 loads of choice, 2.46 loads of select, no loads of trim and 7.02 loads of ground beef).

Feeder cattle futures were leading the market lower Friday, as buyer support seemed to crack during the Thursday trading session. The overall lack of buying interest stepping into the market during initial trade Friday in outside markets seemed to leave even more pressure flooding into the complex. Spot month contracts held the best at this point with prices over $5 per cwt lower at midday, while other nearby contracts held $7 to $7.50 per cwt losses as traders have not only focusing on outside market pressure, but also a lack of market stability through the entire beef complex at the end of the month.

Lean hog futures once again were the quiet and more stable livestock market of the complex, with prices mixed within a very narrow trading range despite the aggressive selling pressure flooding into both the cattle trade and outside financial markets. April futures continued to trade higher through the morning and heading into midday, with a 30-cent gain developing. The rest of the complex remained slightly under pressure with losses of 5 to 15 cents per cwt holding in most nearby contracts. The overall lack of direction in both pork market technical trade as well as stability in market fundamental direction through late February seems to be a welcome relief compared to the market pressure across other markets.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/27140315/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

Commodity markets daily recap

Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins announced the imminent disposal of USDA’s South Building and Braddock Place, designed to reduce the real estate footprint of the U.S. Government in the National Capital Region. “This is a long overdue move to protect the American taxpayer dollars from being wasted on expensive real estate inside the Washington, D.C., area when our government should be closer to the producers we serve,” Rollins said. 

“More than 85 percent of the South Building is unoccupied, and there’s a $1.6 million backlog in deferred maintenance.” She also said it’s “unacceptable” to put these costs on the U.S. taxpayer. “We’re being strong stewards of taxpayer dollars while also ensuring top-notch customer service and fulfilling our promise to American farmers,” Rollins added. USDA Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden added that the massive, underutilized real estate footprint wasn’t sustainable in the current USDA budget. 

USDA relocation plans moving forward

The Fertilizer Institute voiced strong support for key conservation, innovation, and nutrient stewardship provisions included in the House Agriculture Committee’s Farm Bill proposal. The organization is grateful that Chairman GT Thompson recognized the important role that nutrient stewardship and conservation technologies play in helping farmers produce abundant, affordable food while protecting natural resources. “These provisions in the draft Farm Bill reflect a practical, science-based approach to strengthening American agriculture,” said Corey Rosenbusch, president and CEO of the Institute. 

Of particular importance to TFI is the inclusion of a clear definition of plant biostimulants, as well as an exclusion to ensure that these innovative, nutrition-based products are not regulated as pesticides. “Incentivizing precision agriculture and enhanced efficiency technologies through conservation programs is a smart investment,” Rosenbusch added. “These tools help farmers get the most out of their applied fertilizer and deliver economic benefits on the farm while enhancing environmental protections.” 

Fertilizer Institute applauds Farm Bill 2.0 

What began as another mixed and dull trade for Wednesday saw soybeans again gain bullish favor by late morning, shaking off overnight lows for the third time this week and very close to challenging November highs on the May contract. Corn futures were also able to move higher for the third time in the past four sessions and back among the highs of the year thus far. Meanwhile, wheat futures continue to slide on profit-taking directly tied to simmering geopolitical concerns ahead of Thursday's continuation of negotiations between the U.S. and Iran. Along those lines, crude oil futures were lower for the third straight session, but remain among the highs of 2026 with risk premium baked in. Equity markets continued their recovery of Monday's losses and treasuries were quietly lower.

May corn closed up 3 1/2 cents and July corn was up 2 3/4 cents. May soybeans closed up 9 3/4 cents and July soybeans were up 9 1/4 cents. May KC wheat closed down 2 3/4 cents, May Chicago wheat was down 3 1/2 cents, May Minneapolis wheat was up 1 1/2 cents.

The live cattle complex traded mostly lower into Thursday's closing bell, as the market seems to be holding its breath, unsure what's going to shake out in this week's fed cash cattle market and whether or not a strike is going to happen at JBS's plant in Greeley, Colorado. And with the market nearing resistance pressure, traders are simply unwilling to advance the contracts without further fundamental support. There are bids currently on the table in Nebraska and Texas, but no cattle have traded yet. Asking prices are noted at $388 to $390 in the North and at $250-plus in the South. Boxed beef prices were mixed: choice down $0.24 ($378.99) and select up $3.79 ($370.86) with a movement of 49 loads (28.44 loads of choice, 5.69 loads of select, 4.04 loads of trim and 10.55 loads of ground beef).

The feeder cattle complex was feeling the full effect of the market's underlying uncertainty as its contracts traded $5.00 to $6.00 lower for the bulk of Thursday's session. Without seeing the live cattle contracts trading higher -- and still no reassurance as to what's going to come of this week's fed cash cattle trade -- the feeder cattle contracts were left to trade sharply lower.

After an impressive seven-day rally, some of the nearby lean hog contracts traded slightly lower into Thursday's closing bell. With pork cutout values down again slightly, traders may be opting to reel back their support of the contracts until the market's fundamentals improve.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/26140648/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

The overall Rural Mainstreet Index dropped below a growth-neutral level of 50.0 for February. That’s according to the most recent monthly survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a ten-state region dependent on agriculture or energy. The region’s overall reading for February fell to 47.9 from 52.0 in January. This marks the 12th time that the index has dropped below growth-neutral since January 2025. “Due to weakness in the farm economy, especially for grain, about 75 percent of bankers support additional Congressional financial support for the agriculture sector,” said Ernie Goss of Creighton University. “They said pullbacks in farm exports during 2025 continue to undermine the regional farm economy.” 

The February survey showed farm loan delinquency rates plateauing at a modest rate of less than 1.5 percent. The Farm and Ranchland Price Index also fell below growth neutral at 45.5. The overall index ranges from 0 to 100, with growth neutral at 50.0.

February Rural Mainstreet Index falls below growth neutral

A new ten percent U.S. tariff on goods from around the world took effect on Tuesday. Meatingplace said a list of tariff exemptions included beef, some fertilizers, and metals like steel and aluminum that are already under Section 232 national security tariffs. The ten percent tariff under Section 122 was announced last week after the Supreme Court struck down President Donald Trump’s widespread use of tariffs, in place since February 2025. “Section 122 only allows tariffs for 150 days without congressional action,” Meatingplace said. “The President had said over the weekend he was raising them to 15 percent, the cap set in Section 122, but Tuesday’s action remained at ten percent.” 

Fertilizers that are exempt from the new import tariffs include urea, ammonium nitrate, UAN, ammonium sulfate, along with DAP, MAP, and others. Ammonia, sulfuric acid, and sulfur are not exempt, unless they are imported via the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Beef, most fertilizers exempt from new tariffs

May corn closed up 3 1/2 cents and July corn was up 2 3/4 cents. May soybeans closed up 9 3/4 cents and July soybeans were up 9 1/4 cents. May KC wheat closed down 2 3/4 cents, May Chicago wheat was down 3 1/2 cents, May Minneapolis wheat was up 1 1/2 cents.

Although we still haven't heard whether or not there will be a union strike at the JBS plant in Greeley, Colorado, traders seemed comfortable advancing the live cattle contracts Wednesday. Still no cash cattle trade has developed and it's most likely trade will be delayed until Friday. If a plant strike does happen in Colorado, then there's a chance prices may trade steady as opposed to higher as not as many cattle would be needed in the immediate future. Boxed beef prices are higher: choice up $1.92 ($379.35) and select up $0.75 ($366.76) with a movement of 59 loads (34.16 loads of choice, 4.69 loads of select, 8.08 loads of trim and 11.88 loads of ground beef).

Upon seeing the live cattle complex step out and comfortably trade higher, the feeder cattle contracts were logging a sizeable rally ahead of Wednesday's noon hour. Nothing sent the live cattle contracts tumbling lower, the feeder cattle contracts were able to sustain the bulk of their rally into Wednesday's closing bell.

The lean hog complex continued to trade higher, keeping with what is now a seven-day rally as traders continue to drive the market higher upon the technical interest they've recently found. It's been interesting to watch the market's fundamentals play out over the last seven trading days as pork cutout values have been mostly mixed, but packer interest in the cash market has been better.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/25140634/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

U.S. farm groups are urging Congress to move quickly on a new Farm Bill, warning that continued delays could increase uncertainty for producers heading into the 2026 growing season. Commodity organizations say programs covering crop insurance, conservation, nutrition assistance and farm safety nets need long-term stability. Congressional hearings are underway, but farm leaders say producers need clarity well before planting and financing decisions are finalized. 

Agricultural economists note that high input costs, volatile weather and global competition have increased reliance on federal support programs. Farm groups warn that a delayed bill could complicate lending decisions and participation in conservation initiatives. Congressional leaders say negotiations are ongoing but acknowledge challenges in reaching a bipartisan agreement. Farm organizations say timely passage is critical to maintaining confidence in the U.S. farm economy.

Farm groups urge Congress to move quickly on 2026 farm bill

U.S. meat exporters are facing increased pressure overseas as global production rises and price-sensitive buyers look for lower-cost supplies. USDA data show beef and pork exports remain strong by historical standards, but shipments have softened in several key Asian markets. Industry groups say a strong U.S. dollar, higher production costs and growing competition from South America are affecting price competitiveness. 

Export markets are critical to U.S. livestock prices, particularly for cuts less favored by American consumers. The U.S. Meat Export Federation says trade access plays a major role in supporting farm-level returns. Trade officials say ongoing negotiations and market development efforts are focused on maintaining access and expanding demand. Industry leaders warn that continued competition could pressure producer margins if exports slow further.

U.S. meat exports face growing global competition

March corn closed up 1/4 cent and May corn was down 1 3/4 cents. March soybeans closed up 5 1/4 cents and May soybeans were up 5 1/2 cents. March KC wheat closed down 5 3/4 cents, March Chicago wheat was down 2 cents, March Minneapolis wheat was down 2 3/4 cents.

There was very little impactful news for Tuesday to drive prices. Soybean futures appear to have found a comfortable range of liquidity with an early attempt lower rejected by buyers who are still finding optimism in a firm soybean oil market. Meanwhile, corn futures remain sluggish and confined to their February price range with profit-taking in wheat through the week thus far a source of spillover weakness. Outside markets for Tuesday saw recovery in equities after an ugly start to the week on Monday. Energy markets remain generally elevated relative to their 2026 range thus far but are treading this week with the next round of U.S.-Iran negotiations upcoming on Thursday. In other outside market news, President Trump's State of the Union address is Tuesday evening at 8 p.m. CST, and investors will undoubtedly be tuned in to hear comments regarding the U.S. economy, tariff situation, and more.

The live cattle complex continued to trade mixed as it's unclear whether or not an agreement was reached at the JBS packing plant in Greeley, Colorado, to avoid a union plant strike. This uncertainty had the nearby contracts trading slightly lower, while the deferred contracts were trading mildly higher. Still no cash cattle trade has developed, and it's unlikely any trade will surface ahead of Thursday or Friday. Boxed beef prices are higher: choice up $6.65 ($375.87) and select up $1.79 ($366.10) with a movement of 58 loads (39.59 loads of choice, 4.96 loads of select, zero loads of trim and 13.79 loads of ground beef).

The live cattle complex may have traded mixed, but the feeder cattle contracts found a little more support and were softly to fully higher moving into Tuesday's closing bell. More than anything it seems the market is no longer up against immediate resistance pressure, which is why traders are comfortable to now allow the contracts to push slightly higher.

The lean hog complex maintained with its recent trend and traded solidly higher into Tuesday's close. This morning's pork cutout values were down slightly, but prices were stronger Monday and the market remains far enough away from technical resistance pressure that traders are comfortable advancing the contracts at this point in time.

<a href="https://dehayf5mhw1h7.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/356/2026/02/24140930/web-closing-markets-1.mp3">Click HERE for audio</a>

President Trump says 9 Iranian warships have been sunk

As of 9:30 am ET, March 1, three U.S. service members have been killed in action and five are seriously wounded as part of Operation Epic Fury, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

 Several others sustained minor shrapnel injuries and concussions — and are in the process of being returned to duty. Major combat operations continue and our response effort is ongoing.

The situation is fluid, so out of respect for the families, we will withhold additional information, including the identities of our fallen warriors, until 24 hours after next of kin have been notified.

3 US service members killed, 5 wounded in Iran operation

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — CoreCivic can’t house immigration detainees before reaching an agreement with the city of Leavenworth on reopening its private prison, the Kansas Court of Appeals ruled Friday when it upheld a lower court’s decision.

“There is nothing to suggest that CoreCivic is being singled out here,” the Court of Appeals decision said. “The City is merely attempting to enforce its zoning regulations that impose requirements on every entity regardless of its status as a contractor with the federal government.”

Nashville-based CoreCivic&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/02/10/corecivic-appeals-to-overturn-injunction-keeping-it-from-housing-ice-detainees/">appealed an injunction</a>&nbsp;by Leavenworth County District Court that banned it from beginning to take detainees to fulfill its U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement contract. The company announced in 2025 that it would reopen its closed prison as the Midwest Regional Reception Center.&nbsp;

Leavenworth officials said CoreCivic needed a special use permit to do so. The disagreement launched back-and-forth court cases, one of which spawned the injunction against housing detainees while the two worked it out.

In the midst of court actions, CoreCivic applied for a special use permit that is&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/02/25/after-marathon-meeting-corecivic-moves-closer-to-reopening-leavenworth-prison/">nearing approval</a>&nbsp;by city officials.

In its decision, Court of Appeals judges listed three facts they considered before upholding the decision by Leavenworth County District Judge John Bryant — whether the district court’s decision was “arbitrary, fanciful or unreasonable,” based on an error in law or a factual error.

Chief Judge Sarah Warner and Judges Thomas Malone and Stephen Hill issued a 22-page decision that stepped through district court arguments before determining no errors were made in the original ruling.

The appeals court decision outlines the case Leavenworth presented in support of the injunction and breaks down why the district court didn’t err in its decision.

CoreCivic argued the city’s case didn’t have crucial elements that make the injunction reasonable, including a “substantial likelihood” of success and tangible, irreparable harm. The Court of Appeals considered the district judge’s decision on those elements and disagreed with the company.

In considering whether irreparable harm was an issue, the court noted “alarming” testimony supporting the city’s reports that CoreCivic denied local law enforcement access to investigate crimes.

“Patrick Kitchens, the City’s Chief of Police, offered sworn testimony about CoreCivic’s operation of the MRRC that is, to put it mildly, somewhat alarming,” the Appeals decision said. “Kitchens testified that ‘the Leavenworth Police Department encountered many significant problems in responding to reports of crimes, including violent felonies, at the Facility. Due to frequent changes in leadership at CoreCivic, we had difficulty in getting these problems addressed.’ ”

Kitchens gave evidence of a November 2018 inmate death that CoreCivic didn’t report to police for six days, that CoreCivic discouraged police from investigating at least three sexual assaults and that the company didn’t allow employees who were crime victims to interview with city police while they were on duty.

“We have more than (enough) evidence of ‘past harms’ to support the City’s request for a temporary injunction,” the appeals judges wrote. “CoreCivic’s actions demonstrate a very real and imminent harm. … The substantial evidence of the City’s problems with CoreCivic’s operation of the facility combined with the minimal evidence the problems will be addressed supports a reasonable probability of irreparable harm.”

CoreCivic officials have been working through Leavenworth’s special permit process, including addressing Kitchens’ concerns. Kitchens told city commissioners at a meeting last week that he believes previous problems will be addressed by the special use permit.

The permitting process, which led to about 100 people offering public input on the issue, is nearing completion. The Leavenworth City Commission voted 4-1 to pass the permit on for second consideration, which will be March 10. At that point, the commission will vote on the permit or could remand it go back to the city’s planning commission and ask for changes.

If the city denies the permit, CoreCivic can appeal in district court.

Kansas Court of Appeals ruled CoreCivic can’t house ICE detainees without Leavenworth permit

U.S. State Dept. issues “worldwide caution” warning to Americans

KANSAS CITY —One person died in an accident just after 12:30a.m. Saturday in Kansas City.

A white Pickup truck was traveling at a high rate of speed on N. Oak around NE 103rd in Kansas City, Missouri, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino. The pickup rear-ended a&nbsp;silver Buick.&nbsp; The Buick driver was pronounced dead on scene by EMS personal. 

The driver of the white pickup remained at the scene and was placed under arrest for suspicion of DUI.&nbsp; Polie did not release the name of the driver who died or the driver arrested.

This marks fatality #11 in Kansas City, Missouri for 2026, according to DiMartino.

Driver arrested after fatal, high-speed crash in Kansas City

The U.S. and Israel have launched strikes on Tehran, and President Donald Trump says the U.S. is starting major combat operations against Iran.&nbsp;

🎥US posts aerial footage showing strikes on variety of targets

Trump says Iranian Supreme Leader is dead

&nbsp;The U.S. and Israel have launched a major attack on Iran. As of 11a.m. CST Saturday, several members of the Missouri and Kansas Congressional delegations used their social media accounts to comment on the military action.

Mo. and Kan. lawmakers comment on U.S. military attack on Iran

A short time ago, the United States military began major combat operations in Iran. Our objective is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime. A vicious group of very hard, terrible people. Its menacing activities directly endanger the United States, our troops, our bases overseas, and our allies throughout the world.

For 47 years, the Iranian regime has chanted Death to America and waged an unending campaign of bloodshed and mass murder, targeting the United States, our troops and the innocent people in many, many countries. Among the regime’s very first acts was to back a violent takeover of the U.S. Embassy in Tehran, holding dozens of American hostages for 444 days. In 1983, Iran’s proxies carried out the marine barracks bombing in Beirut that killed 241 American military personnel.

In 2000, they knew and were probably involved with the attack on the USS Cole. Many died. Iranian forces killed and maimed hundreds of American service members in Iraq. The regime’s proxies have continued to launch countless attacks against American forces stationed in the Middle East in recent years, as well as U.S. naval and commercial vessels and international shipping lines. It’s been mass terror, and we’re not going to put up with it any longer.

From Lebanon to Yemen and Syria to Iraq, the regime has armed, trained and funded terrorist militias that have soaked the earth with blood and guts. And it was Iran’s proxy, Hamas, that launched the monstrous Oct. 7 attacks on Israel, slaughtering more than 1,000 innocent people, including 46 Americans, while taking 12 of our citizens hostage. It was brutal, something like the world has never seen before.

Iran is the world’s number one state sponsor of terror, and just recently killed tens of thousands of its own citizens on the street as they protested. It has always been the policy of the United States, in particular my administration, that this terrorist regime can never have a nuclear weapon. I’ll say it again, they can never have a nuclear weapon. That is why in Operation Midnight Hammer last June, we obliterated the regime’s nuclear program at Fordo, Natanz and Isfahan. After that attack, we warned them never to resume their malicious pursuit of nuclear weapons, and we sought repeatedly to make a deal. We tried. They wanted to do it. They didn’t want to do it. Again they wanted to do it. They didn’t want to do it. They didn’t know what was happening. They just wanted to practice evil. But Iran refused, just as it has for decades and decades.

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