BRANSON, MO (December 7, 2022) – Not one, not two, but three Pirates were selected as the district’s Pirate Proud recipients for the month of December. The Pirate Proud honor recognizes excellence among classified staff members such as bus drivers, school nurses, custodians, paraprofessionals, administrative assistants, IT professionals and nutrition services staff.

Branson School District honored bus drivers, Jimmie Wilson, Michael Cole and John Jackson. These Transportation Department team members were nominated by students and parents within the community, as well as fellow staff members. "They all have the best hearts for kids," says Transportation Director, Rob Watson. "These drivers are welcoming, encouraging and always greet students and staff with a smile - and sometimes a joke!" Wilson has been with the district 9 years, Cole has served Branson Schools for 6 years, and Jackson is a first-year Pirate. All three were honored with a presentation by Superintendent, Dr. Brad Swofford.

The district also participates in the Teacher Proud Tuesday campaign through the Greater Ozarks Cooperating School Districts (GOCSD), highlighting members of the teaching staff on the second Tuesday of every month. Nominations from students, parents, community members and employees will continue to be accepted for both the Pirate Proud and Teacher Proud titles throughout the 2022-2023 school year. For more information on how to nominate an outstanding employee, please visit the Branson School District website at www.branson.k12.mo.us.