Good morning, Springfield.

Springfield-based Ozarks Food Harvest provided 23 million meals in its most recent fiscal year for local children, families and seniors through partnerships.

The food bank expanded its Mobile Food Pantry program and granted $700K to local agencies to help fight rising food insecurity — now up 40%.

The History Museum on the Square transferred its archival collection to Duane G.

Meyer Library at Missouri State University, making local records available for research. Officials say the move will free museum resources for upcoming exhibits — a boost for community history.

The History Museum on the Square teamed up with Missouri State University to move over 700 boxes of historical items—photos, letters and documents—to the Duane G.

Meyer Library to preserve Springfield history. MSU curators say the collection offers a rare look at the 1930s community.

Springfield Public Schools released a 36-page AI handbook that sets ethical guidelines for students and staff and introduces AI Coordinator Nicole West.

Developed with campus feedback, the new rules cover acceptable use, age limits, and consequences for misuse + the launch of an AI Academy for ongoing training.

The Risdel Family Teen Center at the Boys and Girls Club in Springfield is beginning its second year for students in grades 6 through 12.

The center offers art projects + gaming and board games as well as on-site mental health services to help build community.

Springfield Public Schools partnered with local police and the county sheriff’s office to boost safety around school bus stops as expanded bus services will begin on Aug.

25. Officers will monitor school zones for stop-arm violations and speeding through August and September.

Lost and Found Grief Center warns Springfield teachers to be especially attentive as 1 in 10 children lose a caregiver or sibling before turning 18.

The center offers educators practical advice, including using clear words and encouraging healthy coping methods (journaling, art, exercise, and music).

Springfield Public Schools held its Back to School Staff Kickoff on Aug.

19 at Great Southern Bank Arena. The event featured fun costumes and budget updates due to flat state funding, boosting morale as teachers prepared for classes in temporary locations.

Missouri Prevention Coalitions Network leads a statewide campaign to help teens make healthy choices by avoiding substance use during the final two weeks of August.

Southwest Missouri groups will share messages on posters, billboards and social media to spotlight support and skill-building in the community.

A new affordable housing complex on Commercial Street, the first new development in 50 years, offers 42 units and business suites for a cafe and wellness shop; built by The Vecino Group using American Rescue Plan funds, some residents have already moved in and waitlist applications remain open.

Missouri State’s Bears secondary deepens with leader J.J.

O’Neal and Christian Ford, who stayed despite entering the transfer portal. Coach Woods and defensive coordinator Jack Curtis guided roster moves ahead of the Sept. 5 opener at Texas A&M — the team aims to boost tackling and focus.

Skyler Locklear, a former UTEP starter, was named Missouri State’s starting quarterback after a promising scrimmage.

He will lead the Bears against No. 8 Texas A&M (in College Station) on Sept. 5.