As the new school year begins, children may feel excited, anxious, or both. Maximize your benefits for a successful start.

Employee Assistance:

Explore Mercy EAP’s valuable articles on various topics:

• Back-to-school Tips for Parents
• Supporting Gifted Children in the Classroom
• Five Hot Homework Tips for Parents
• Dental Care: Tips for School-Aged Children And more!

Access these resources using:

• Username: MSU
• Password: MSU

Enjoy confidential counseling services, available all day, every day, at no cost for full-time employees and their immediate family members. Contact us at 314-729-4600 #2 to learn more.

Vision

Start the new school year with clear vision by scheduling a comprehensive vision exam. Check out VSP‘s articles for tips on caring for your child’s eye health, including maintaining healthy vision habits and recognizing potential issues.

• Common vision problems in Kids and How to Spot Them.
• Are Contact Lenses Safe for Kids? Your Guide to Navigating this Decision.
• See the difference: How eyewear Empowers your Child’s Academic Journey.

Take advantage of VSP additional savings:

VSP Offers Page

Flex Spending

Use your Flex spending dollars. Visit Asiflex for eligible expenses:

• Dependent Care Account (DCFSA) covers after-school care or extended day care programs.
• Medical Care Account (FSA) includes items like athletic mouth guards, first aid kits, orthodontia, and more.

Vision and Flex spending/Cafeteria plan enrollments may only be made within 31 days of a qualifying event or during open enrollment (Nov 1- Dec 1).

Get Ready for School with Community Events!

OACAC Greene County: School Supplies For Greene County Students Greene County families can register for the Back to School Fair hosted by OACAC Greene County Center. Eligible students in grades K-12 will receive free school supplies and valuable resources. Residents of Greene County who meet income eligibility register by calling (417) 447-0554.

Springfield Public Schools: Back to School Bash Saturday, July 27, from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Springfield Expo Center.  Event equips students and families with the resources and information needed for a successful 2024-2025 school year. Offering backpacks, hygiene kits, groceries, immunizations, and connections to community resources. Event is open to all SPS students and families.

2024 Back-to-School MO Sales Tax Holiday August 2 to August 4.  Enjoy tax-free shopping on qualifying items such as clothing, school supplies, computers, and more. For more information, including FAQs and details for vendors and consumers, visit Tax Holiday Information.

West Plains Community, Bridges program: Back to school Fair August 10, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. while supplies last in the West Plains High school parking lot. Fair open to students who attend Fairview, Glenwood, Howell Valley, Junction Hill, Richards, West Plains, and Head Start. The following Saturday, August 17, will be the annual clothing give-a-way at Bridges, time TBA.  Attendees should preregister with Bridges 417-256-6150

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