All returning students in grades K-5 will need to update student information (phone number, emergency contact updates, etc.) and complete the online registration in TeacherEase. All new students in grade K-5 will need to stop by the elementary office beginning the week of August 4th to initiate registration/enrollment.
The first day of school is Tuesday, August 19th. School hours are 7:56 am to 2:56 pm. Breakfast is serviced from 7:35 am to 8 am. Drop off students that will be eating breakfast at school by 7:40 am to ensure they have enough time to eat before 7:56 am when breakfast is over.
He graduated from Archie High School in 2005. Brent was adventurous and well-traveled, which played a significant role in shaping his career as a self-made chef. His passion for cooking turned into a successful profession, specializing in wood-fired pizza and various culinary creations that he enjoyed making for family, friends, and customers.
Brent was deeply loved by his family, friends and community for his caring nature. Thoughtful and introspective, he approached life in his own unique way. As a visionary, he was well-read and knowledgeable. He found joy in cooking, engaging in conversations with friends, writing, and creating. Brent enjoyed crafting one-of-a-kind recipes, videos, and written works.
Brent is survived by his mother, Deborah Nowak (Tom); brother, Wayne Gunnels (Kara); sister, Bridget Gunnels DiMercurio (Paul); nieces, Bella DiMercurio, Cecilia DiMercurio, and Amelia DiMercurio; aunts, Renee Burrows (Steve), Thresa Gunnels-Mays (Rob); close friend Jillian Murden as well as many loved cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Glenn Gunnels, and both paternal and maternal grandparents.
Brent will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who have supported his family during this difficult time.
In memory of Brent, and in lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a charity of your choice in his name.
A celebration of life visitation will be at Dickey’s Funeral Home in Harrisonville, MO on August 16, 2025, from 2-3:30 pm. This will be followed by a time for food and conversation, TBD.
Editorial comment
Just recently the Butler Fire Department was summoned to Douglas Park in east Butler on a report that a plastic porta potty was on fire; this came on the heels of spray painted graffiti at the North (Sensory) park on Mill street that required a day's worth of work to clean up.These reports are only the latest of what seems to be on a regular basis, police and fire are called to one of Butler's city parks on a report of vandalism. In fact, the Sensory park has had more than its share of such vandalism despite being surrounded by plenty of homeowners which begs even more questions.
Is no one watching? Should police patrols be stepped up even more? How about strict penalties for those caught?
If you recall, some very nice playground equipment was destroyed at the Ohio Street Methodist Church by an intentional fire. It came at a huge cost and the person(s) responsible walked away without consequence.
Although costs associated with cleanup and replacement is enough to deal with, the better question is why do we no longer have pride in our community? Why is there a desire to destroy something? Dr. Phil would agree there is something very wrong in your life and furthermore, if someone destroyed something of value to you, it is guaranteed you would be quite upset.
Butler isn't the only spot on the map with these issues. In fact, it has become somewhat fashionable to destroy things and put the video on social media which only aggravates the problem.
Solution? As mentioned above, step up police patrols if at all possible and furthermore, we all need to be vigilant and call police if we see anything suspicious anywhere around town.
Then, push for a maximum penalty for those caught. Without discipline, it will continue to happen. Just ask Dr. Phil.
Doug Mager
