Nixa board hears highlights: state football finish, FFA national recognition and therapy dogs in schools

During superintendent comments at the Nixa Board of Education meeting, the board heard several district highlights.

Gary McKnight showcased the district’s therapy and service dogs. The presentation said the district typically has between six and 10 therapy and service dogs per year and that six dogs are currently serving this year.

The board also heard that Nixa High School’s football program finished as the state runner-up this season. Separately, the district’s Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter reported awards at state and national competitions and was described as ranking in the top 4% of FFA chapters nationally; the presentation noted the chapter has received various grants connected to regional activities and travel.

Sarah Mancusi, identified in the transcript as president of the Nixa Teachers Association, told the board that recent NTA meetings have had high attendance and an engaged teacher membership.

These items were presented as district highlights; the meeting transcript records them as informational and contains no formal board action related to the recognitions.