Hamilton R-2 School District

Hamilton R-II School District welcomes Mrs. Briana Surber to a new role for the 2026-2027 school year. Mrs. Surber will be moving on up to the middle school to serve as a Special Education Teacher.

Mrs. Surber previously served five years as a paraprofessional at the Trenton Elementary School and one year as Early Childhood Special Education Teacher at Hamilton Elementary.

She graduated in the Spring of 2026 with her bachelor’s degree in Special Education through Missouri State University. Mrs. Surber enjoys spending time at the family farm, in the garden, fishing and checking up on all the cattle. She is happily married with one daughter (9) and one step-son (17). Her family shares a blue heeler puppy that makes the family complete. In her downtime, you can find Mrs. Surber spending time with family or catching up on homework as she begins her masters degree in the Comprehensive Intervention Specialist program through Missouri State University. Mrs. Surber is excited to start this new journey with Hamilton School District as the district has been so supportive and helpful this pass year.

This quote by Carol Dweck demonstrates Mrs. Surber's approach to education as she is always learning, reflecting and growing, "In a growth mindset, challenges are exciting rather than threatening. So rather than thinking, oh, I'm going to reveal my weaknesses, you say, oh, here's an opportunity to grow."

Hamilton R-II School District welcomes Mrs. Karie Cooley as Transportation/SIS Coordinator & Central Office Administrative Assistant for the 2026-2027 school year.

Mrs. Cooley is a Penney High Graduate and a lifelong member of the Hamilton community. She has previously worked at Hamilton Elementary School in the preschool room, computers and as
the elementary library aide. She is a proud Hornet supporter and you can usually hear her cheering from the sidelines at most sporting events. Karie and her husband have three children,
two in high school and one in middle school. All three keep her on the go most evenings and weekends. When she can get away, Karie enjoys spending time at the lake relaxing, reading a good book or hanging out with family and friends.

“I am excited to be back with the Hamilton School District. I know first hand just how much of an impact this district has on students, parents and the town itself. As a member of the Hamilton community and a parent of students in the district, I am excited to be able to contribute to the growth and success of Hamilton R-II. GO HORNETS!”

Hamilton R-II School District welcomes Ms. Kailynn Byrne as K-12 Vocal Music Teacher for the 2026-2027 school year. Ms. Byrne has student taught in the Independence School District at Truman High School and at Blackburn Elementary School. Ms. Byrne loves making music in and outside the classroom by participating in professional choral ensembles.

"I'm so excited for the opportunity to get to know your wonderful students and community; especially as I begin my teaching journey. I can't wait for Hamilton to show me what it means to be a Hornet!"

Hamilton R-II School District welcomes Miss Raelyn Eskridge as an Elementary Special Education Teacher for the 2026-2027 school year.

Miss Eskridge is a Penney High graduate and she holds an Association of Arts Degree in Teaching from NCMC. Miss Eskridge is currently working towards her Bachelor's Degree in Special Education from Central Methodist University.

Miss Eskridge is a lifelong member of the Hamilton community, with deep family roots. Family is at the center of her life and she cherishes the time she gets to spend with her nieces, nephew, and loved ones. Miss Eskridge is extremely passionate about working with children and she values their academic, social, and personal growth. It truly means the world to Miss Eskridge that she has the opportunity to give back to the community that has played such an important role in shaping who she is today.

“ I am excited for the opportunities that this school year will bring for both my students and myself. I look forward to continuing to build positive relationships with students, staff, and families. I’m truly grateful to start this next chapter and eager for the year ahead.”

Take advantage of FREE meals! Please see the flyer below!

In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, s*x, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the State or local Agency that administers the program or contact USDA through the Telecommunications Relay Service at 711 (voice and TTY). Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at How to File a Program Discrimination Complaint and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Mail Stop 9410, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email: [email protected].

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

Hamilton R-II School District welcomes Mrs. Amber Sprague as the Early Childhood Special Education Teacher for the 2026-2027 school year. Mrs. Sprague holds a Bachelors in Teaching Degree and certifications for Elementary Education and Mild Moderate Cross Categorical K-12. Mrs. Sprague has spent the past nine years at Trenton School District; three years as paraprofessional and then teaching for six years. She is excited to begin year seven at Hamilton R-II.

Mrs. Sprague and her family live on a small farm outside of Trenton. Her husband is a farmer and they have been married for eight years and have been together for 16 years total. She and her husband share two kids, a daughter who is 14 years old and will be a Freshman in August and a son who is 12 years old and will be in 7th Grade. You can find Mrs. Sprague and her family at ballfields, wrestling meets, or track meets most days. They also share a love of camping and they enjoy spending time at the lake.

"I am beyond excited to start my next chapter at Hamilton R-II. The warm welcoming and support that's already been shown has been amazing. I am excited to get to meet my kiddos and watch them grow every day. Go Hornets!

Hamilton R-II School District welcomes Ms. Clare Simpson as the Instrumental Music Teacher for the 2026-2027 school year. Ms. Simpson student taught in Smithville during the 2025-2026 school year. She plays a variety of instruments but her favorite to play is the pipe organ.

"I am incredibly excited to begin my teaching journey at Hamilton R-II School District. I'm looking forward to interacting with the community and learning what is means to be a Hornet!"

Hamilton R-II School District is excited to announce that Mrs. Liz Billman will be transitioning from the paraprofessional role to the role of Middle School Special Education Teacher for the 2026-2027 school year. Mrs. Billman is a Penney High graduate and she moved back to the area last year. Mrs. Billman and her husband share two cats, Jim and Jeff, who they are obsessed with. In her free time, Mrs. Billman likes to bake, work on homework for grad school, and watch TV.

Mrs. Billman currently holds a Bachelor's Degree in Marriage and Family Studies and she is finishing her Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. Her favorite part of working in Special Education is experiencing the world through her student's eyes and sharing their excitement in the small things.

"Working in the special education department has brightened my life. I can't wait to continue this journey with them next year!"

Hamilton R-II School District welcomes Mrs. Cheyenne Galbraith as Kindergarten Teacher for the 2026-2027 school year; this will be her fourth year teaching. Mrs. Galbraith holds a Bachelors Degree in Therapeutic Recreation and a certificate to teach K-5th Grade in Idaho. Mrs. Galbraith is a new mom as her little boy was born in April. She and her family have recently moved to Missouri.

"I am so excited to join the staff at Hamilton Elementary teaching Kindergarten! I can’t wait to build strong relationships with my students and their families while creating a classroom that is fun, welcoming, and full of learning and laughter."

Hamilton R-II School District welcomes Ms. Amanda King as Elementary Physical Education Teacher for the 2026-2027 school year. Ms. King has 15 years of experience teaching PE and Health. Throughout her career, she has also coached volleyball, track and field, and basketball.

"My goal is to create an engaging and inclusive environment where every student can discover the joy of movement. I am excited to join the Hamilton Hornet Family."