The Northwestern R-1 School District has announced some changes to its upper elementary starting in the 2026-2027 school year.

The district has announced that 6th grade classes will move from the elementary side of the school and shift to the middle school/junior high model. Superintendent Tyler Clark tells KMMO News that the decision to make the change followed meetings with parents as well as a survey sent out to elementary school families.

 

6th grade classes will be relocated to the junior high side of the building. The change will give 6th grade students new opportunities to take Ag, FACS, and business classes, giving them exposure to groups like FFA and FBLA. This change is consistent with many other CLAA Conference Schools and help align the 6th grade experience with MSHSAA activities and athletics. Clark says another benefit of the change includes preparing students for 7th and 8th grade.

 

The district says more specifics about the transition will be shared with impacted families soon.