FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 4/9/2026
Contact: Caleb Petet, Superintendent, cpetet@marshallowls.com, 660-886-7414

Midland Empire Conference Announces Expansion and Two-Division Alignment Beginning 2028–2029

The Midland Empire Conference (MEC) is pleased to announce that Marshall Public Schools, Moberly School District, Mexico Public Schools, and Kirksville R-III School District will join the conference beginning with the 2028–2029 school year.

This expansion will establish a new two-division structure designed to enhance competitive balance, strengthen regional rivalries, and improve travel efficiency for student-athletes and activity participants. The two-division model reflects the conference’s long-term commitment to providing meaningful opportunities for students while supporting the logistical realities schools face in scheduling and transportation.

Conference Divisions (Effective 2028–2029)
East Division
● Chillicothe
● Kirksville
● Marshall
● Mexico
● Moberly

West Division
● Benton
● Bishop LeBlond
● Cameron
● Excelsior Springs
● Maryville
● Savannah

The decision to expand follows discussion and support from member schools during the MEC Board of Controls process. At the Board of Controls meeting on Thursday, April 9, conference members expressed strong support for adding Marshall, Moberly, Mexico, and Kirksville, noting that their inclusion would strengthen long-term conference stability and student opportunities and aligns with conference priorities such as competitive balance, geography, and travel considerations.

The MEC’s two-division alignment is intended to prioritize divisional scheduling, reduce midweek travel demands, and maintain a strong conference identity through selected cross-division contests and potential championship-style formats. This approach mirrors the goals outlined by the four incoming districts in their membership proposal, emphasizing travel efficiency, community engagement, and sustainable conference growth.

Additional implementation details—including activity-by-activity scheduling alignment, governance expectations, and transition planning—will be coordinated collaboratively among member districts in advance of the 2028–2029 start date.

About the Midland Empire Conference
The Midland Empire Conference is a high school activities conference dedicated to supporting competitive opportunities and positive student experiences through interscholastic athletics and activities. ###

Marshall Public Schools

Marshall to Officially Join Midland Empire Conference for 2028-2029 School Year