CPS back-to-school convocation is underway in Columbia

The approximately 3,000 employees of Columbia Public Schools (CPS) were greeted by CPS student drumlines and cheer squads this morning, as they walked into Mizzou Arena.

The district is holding its back-to-school convocation event to celebrate the start of a new school year. The event began at 9 am. CPS’ Michelle Baumstark says this year’s theme is inspiring greatness. Ms. Baumstark says the event is also featuring student voices of inspiration and encouragement.

CPS is now Missouri’s fifth-largest school district. Ms. Baumstark says the district recorded its highest first-day enrollment count ever in August 2022, with more than 19,000 students. District enrollment has increased by more than 2,000 in the past 12 years.

CPS’ first day of classes is Tuesday August 22.