The Richmond R-XVI School District and Dear Elementary celebrated the future Early Childhood Center’s project with a community groundbreaking ceremony last week. “Thanks for being here on this special occasion. It’s truly groundbreaking to celebrate something that the entire Richmond community surrounding us will benefit from construction,” said R-XVI School District Superintendent Dr. Bryan Copple. “Thanks to CB Construction Services, LLC; Hollis and Miller Architects, and the school board.” Dear Elementary Principal Dr. Marlaine Boyd took the podium and explained the project itself had been anticipated since before her arrival. “I want to say thank you to all those people who have continued to push and have hope for us. We’re super excited that it’s actually launching,” she said. Boyd explained the past of the Dear Elementary land. She said in 1889, the Ray County Methodist Church School of Higher Learning. Thomas D. Woodson donated the land for the school, which taught grades…