Congratulations to ANDI PHILLIPS, Elementary Outreach Worker.  Ms. Phillips has been chosen as the November “MAKING A DIFFERENCE” award winner for the Odessa R-VII School District.  The Elementary staff had the following comments about how she makes a difference:

• Andi is always willing to help and provide resources to the students at OUE. She listens when needed, gives when appropriate, and always guides students toward success. 

• She goes out of her way to help, guide, and communicate with every child and every adult.

• She is thoughtful, dependable, and a genuine team player who brings positivity to everything she does! She handles challenges with grace, offers helpful feedback, and is great to work with!

Ms. Phillips always has a positive attitude and a passion for doing a great job, and she MAKES A DIFFERENCE for everyone he comes in contact with everyday.​

The Odessa Clothes Closet is a volunteer-driven, community-focused organization that has proudly served the Odessa R-7 School District and surrounding areas since 1950. It is fully operated by dedicated volunteers and is overseen by a compassionate and committed board. The board officers include Nita Dillon, President; Rena Munsterman, Vice President; and Annie Hotmer-Utz, Secretary. The organization is funded through generous community donations and the sale of gently used clothing and household items.

More than just a thrift store, the Odessa Clothes Closet serves as a vital support system for individuals and families during times of need. Through a voucher program, the organization provides free clothing, shoes, and household essentials to those experiencing financial hardship, recovering from property damage such as fires, or qualifying through other assistance programs. These services help ensure that community members do not go without basic necessities, especially during difficult times.

In addition to providing direct assistance, the Clothes Closet is deeply involved in supporting local schools and students. The organization donates clothing to students who need it, helping them feel confident and comfortable in the classroom. It also contributes to school libraries, athletic programs, and other student-focused initiatives, further enriching the educational experience.

The Odessa Clothes Closet is a shining example of what a caring and united community can accomplish. By meeting essential needs and supporting local programs, the organization strengthens the lives of individuals and families while building a stronger, more compassionate community for all.

On behalf of the Odessa R-VII School District community, thank you to the Odessa Community Service Center and Girl Scout Troop 3026 for being true “COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS.”

As part of the requirements of “Get the Lead Out of School Drinking Water Act” (RSMo 160.077) the Odessa R-VII School District is taking the necessary steps to ensure safe drinking water for everyone within the buildings.  District personnel identified drinking water outlets throughout the district and utilized the services of Axiom Service Professionals to conduct testing of each outlet.  Those results, once received back from the lab, will be made available to the public on the school website. 

Additional information about the effects of lead can be found at: https://health.mo.gov/living/environment/lead/publications.php

Remediation Plan

Any samples that resulted in readings greater than the required 5 ppb level will be corrected and retested. Some sinks were not in areas in which there was an expectation of them being drinking water, they have been labeled as such, “not drinking water”. Others, which are areas that will be used for drinking water, are being addressed and will be retested. Further results will be posted here upon their return to the District.