Welcome to the #bestlittleschoolever!
We are the Strain-Japan R-XVI School District, a small, mighty independent PK-8 district (organized in 1956) located near the charming town of Sullivan, Missouri. Our school is uniquely situated amongst a breathtaking backdrop of gorgeous wooded countryside, elegantly framed by the winding Bourbeuse River.
Our mission is simple yet profound: to create learners who lead, succeed, and achieve. We believe that education is a collaborative journey, and we achieve these milestones together, reinforcing our identity as the #bestlittleschoolever.
Since 1956, the residents of this community have surrounded our learners with unwavering love and support, making us more than a school—we are a family. The district spans 43.3 square miles and serves a dedicated population of approximately 1,025 people (median age 41.8), with a median household income of $74,219. We are proud that 89% of our residents have a high school diploma or higher, and the community is deeply invested in our students' success.
Our commitment to growth is clear. While the district historically served K-8, we proudly opened our first district-run preschool in February 2023, expanding our services to PK-8. Our enrollment has continued to grow, and while nearly 50% of our students qualify for free and reduced lunch, we are committed to meeting the needs of every learner.
As a K-8 district, our resident students benefit from choice; they can attend any high school in the county. We currently have students at Sullivan High School and Owensville High School, and we pay tuition for them to attend. We also provide transportation to Sullivan High School.
We invite you to experience the "mighty" spirit of our independent district firsthand. Our doors and our community are always open.
Sincerely,
Dr. Kathy Vandegriffe
Superintendent