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National Search Underway for Next Superintendent
The Francis Howell School District Board of Education has partnered with a search firm to conduct a nationwide search for the district’s next superintendent.

Read more about the search

Important Updates to the 2024-25 School Year Calendar
The Francis Howell School District Board of Education has approved changes to the 2024-2025 school year calendar, aligning with new requirements under Senate Bill 727.

Read more about calendar changes

Howell Of Fame Nominations Now Open
The Howell of Fame Awards are back to recognize outstanding contributors in the Francis Howell community! Celebrate those who go the extra mile for our students, staff, and schools. Don't miss the chance to honor those who make a significant impact on our District. Let's celebrate community and excellence together!

Nominate someone for Howell of Fame today!

group of five students smile together at recess — Stay Informed About Inclement Weather
Stay informed about potential school closures due to inclement weather by keeping your contact info up-to-date through the Infinite Campus Parent Portal. All parents/guardians listed in Infinite Campus Parent Portal are automatically registered for inclement weather notifications. Make sure your information is up to date.

Visit the Infinite Campus Parent Portal

Niche names FHSD best district in St. Charles County
Francis Howell School District is ranked #1 in St. Charles County and 10th in Missouri by Niche's 2025 Best Districts list, placing in the top 3% with an A rating.

Read more about FHSD's Niche Ranking

Report Bullying, Harassment and Safety Concerns
The Francis Howell School District has introduced a new anonymous reporting form for bullying, harassment, and safety concerns, accessible via QR code posters in middle and high schools.

Read more about this initiative by visiting our Newsroom

students play with blocks in class — We’re Hiring! Join Our Team of Dedicated Teachers and Support Staff
FHSD is one of the largest employers in the region with 23 school campuses, more than 16,000 students and 2,200 employees. We’re offering competitive wages for custodians, paraprofessionals, bus drivers, support staff, teachers and administrators.

View the District's Open Positions

student writes in class — You Can Make a Difference in Our School
Amidst nationwide staffing shortages, our students and staff could use your help now more than ever. Register as a volunteer and learn about opportunities to share your time and talents with our school.

Visit the Volunteer page

Welcome to Independence

Emily Pavia - Principal

Welcome Independence Families! We are so excited to work with you and your family this year! The staff of Independence truly focus on supporting the whole child and meeting students where they are in their growth.

Independence Testimonial 3

Working at Independence Elementary has been a true joy! When you work with a staff who wants nothing but the best for kids when it comes to social, emotional and educational growth, it makes your work life feel less like work and more like family. I have always known Independence was a special place, but when I truly saw how amazing this building is, was when my two girls started school here. They felt loved, heard, and accepted while at school each day. From the classroom teachers, special area teachers, and opportunities given through leadership and activities, I am thrilled to be watching them grow and learn at Independence Elementary!

Jessica B.

Independence Testimonial 2

I feel blessed to have been a third-grade teacher at Independence Elementary since it opened 24 years ago. Our amazing school is much more than a high-achieving group of learners and dedicated teachers. It is a caring, supportive community where the holistic education of every child matters.

Andrea C.

Independence Testimonial 1

Since the moment I was hired at Independence 22 years ago, I have felt like a part of a family. Staff work together to help make sure all students' needs are met. The Independence family is a community that supports each other and truly believes in every child that walks through the doors. It has been a priviledge to be a part of Independence.

Nicole G.

News & Events

Events

Kid Chefs Wanted: FHSD to host 2nd annual cooking competition for elementary students

The Francis Howell School District is gearing up for its second annual Future Chefs National Challenge, sponsored by Sodexo, the District’s food service provider.

New HIres

Jana Schultz named Independence Elementary Principal

The Francis Howell School District has announced that Jana Schultz will serve as the new principal at Independence Elementary School beginning July 1, 2025.

Graphic from U.S. World News that says "Best Elementary Schools Graphic"

Academics
Awards and Honors
Staff Achievements
Student Achievements

U.S. News ranks FHSD schools among best in Missouri

U.S. News & World Report has named its 2025 Best Elementary and Middle Schools, ranking more than 79,000 public schools nationwide based on data from the U.S. Department of Education.

Mid Rivers Newsmagazine names 2024 Teacher of the Year

Independence Elementary teacher Sasha Walchli, an educator who has just completed her 20th year teaching, has been announced as Mid Rivers Newsmagazine’s 2024 Teacher of the Year.