
Riverview Gardens / SSD
Newsletter for Families, March, 2024
Riverview Gardens School District Information
From the Desk of Veronica Morrow-Reel
President, Special Administrative Board
Topic: Prop S
Greetings Ramily,
I would like to share information with you about Proposition S, a no-tax-rate-increase bond issue on the April 2, 2024, ballot. Prop S would help raise $25 million to support safe and secure schools without increasing the current tax rate. The measure would also help to provide critical updates to building structures and technology.
Prop S priorities include:
- Securing Entries
- Adding and Enhancing Perimeter Fencing
- Replacing & Repairing Exterior and Classroom Doors
- Upgrading Building Intercom Systems
- Purchasing a Crisis & Emergency App
- Fortifying Locks
- Replacing & Repairing HVAC Units
- Upgrading School Kitchens
- And More.
Maintaining a safe and secure learning environment for scholars and staff of the Riverview Gardens School District is our top priority. Unfortunately, it seems that every day we see schools around the nation facing numerous challenges, attacks and difficulties. The RGSD community lacks the business development of other areas across Metropolitan St. Louis.
Over the summer, local elected officials petitioned for a $13 million budget allocation to help support maintenance and facilities improvement. Unfortunately, the measure was vetoed by the governor. While we were disappointed that the funding was not approved, we will continue to work to improve the District’s facilities and ensure that we maintain a safe learning environment for all.
If you would like to learn more about Proposition S, please visit the RGSD website at rgsdmo.org/props.
Sincerely,
Veronica Morrow-Reel, President
Special Administrative Board
Summer and Spring Break
Recreation Council of Greater St. Louis
Discover the what, why and how behind the incredible work we get to do every day for individuals with disabilities. Download our latest newsletters and area guides to learn more about the Recreation Council of Greater St. Louis and ways you can get involved with programs or events.
IT’S ARRIVED. 2024 Summer Guide can now be viewed and printed. Plus, check out these resources:
● Tips on Finding a Leisure Program Right for You
Spring Break
Spring break is just around the corner. Thankfully St. Louis offers many opportunities for families to get out and about together. Explore St. Louis has a robust directory of local museums and galleries. Get out and see what St. Louis has to offer.
SSD Parent Advisory Committee (PAC)
Letter from the PAC President:
Greetings PAC Family!
Check out our upcoming meeting topics below. Note: Our PAC meetings are always held on the second Wednesday of the month, 7-9 PM, August through May (except March):
May 8, 2024: Mark your calendars for our in-person celebration at SSD Central office!
You’re invited to an End of Year Party at SSD’s Central Office, in Town & Country. SSD Board of Education Members, your District's Board of Education members who serve on Governing Council, your District Parent Groups, SSD FACE (Family and Community Engagement) and the best resource vendors will all be there wanting to connect with & meet as many families as they can. More details to come.
Lastly, please take a minute to vote in our 3-question survey. It’s anonymous! We want to give families a strong introduction to the Special Education/SSD system- but need your help. What do you always tell new parents? What resources do you share with newly diagnosed families? Please vote. Link to survey: https://ssdmo.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3EJPa1clNZPQEgC.
Best,
Rebecca Flieg
President, SSD Parents Advisory Council
Special School District Information
Follow SSD on Instagram!
SSD launched a new Instagram account in October and would love for you to follow. The District will be sharing photos and updates from all across the District, including our students and staff in partner districts. Follow us to stay connected and see what we are up to: www.instagram.com/ssdstlco/
Family and Community Engagement (FACE)
Exciting news! The FACE second-semester calendar of events is now available. Packed with enriching activities, it aims to strengthen family/school partnerships. You can access the calendar here. Mark your calendars and join us—your participation is key to fostering a positive and engaging school community.
Want to learn more about opportunities for families in our district? Sign up on our website for the new FACE-to-face newsletter from SSD’s Family and Community Engagement Division. Scroll to the bottom of the page, look to the right-hand corner, and share your name and email address to stay up to date on our events.
Family Resource Hub Food Pantry
Family Resource Hub Food Pantry is stocked with food and supplies and open for families who are in need. Contact FACE or your school social worker to find out more.
Family Cafe
Join FACE on March 14th at North Technical High School, 1700 Derhake Rd, Florissant, MO 63033 from 6-8 pm for Family Cafe. Family Cafes are hosted by families for families. They provide parents and caregivers a safe and welcoming space to connect and learn from each other. They are centered on the Strengthening Families Five Protective Factors: Resilience, Relationships, Knowledge, Support, and Communication. Register today!
Family Leadership Institute (FLI)
FUTURE LEADERS WANTED! Would you like to become more involved in the special education process? Family Leadership Institute offers participants a comprehensive set of opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge in various areas related to education, family engagement, and collaboration. Sign up today for the Family Leadership Institute (FLI). FLI will be held April 17th, 24th and May 1st from 5:30-8pm. Click here to find out more and to register.
Save the Dates: STL County Apprenticeship & Career Pathways Showcases
SSD will be partnering with Affton, Pattonville, and Rockwood school districts again this year to host the St. Louis County Apprenticeship & Career Pathways Showcases. Last year’s events were very successful and helped middle and high-school students throughout the St. Louis region learn about the many careers available to them that require specialized training. Visit the Showcase webpage for more information! The District will host three Saturday events, each held from 10 AM – 1 PM:
● March 2 – North Tech High School
● March 9 – South Tech High School
St. Louis County Library
Did you know that the St. Louis County Library offers more than just books? They offer a whole host of events at each of their locations throughout the County. Visit their events webpage today and discover what interests you!
The need for financial assistance is growing at an alarming rate for those with audiology needs. Since hearing aids, hearing molds, audiological equipment, and/or repairs are not always covered by insurance or tax dollars, we need your help more than ever before!
Funds will be used to purchase hearing aids, earmolds, repairs, and all things audiological. On behalf of the students and parents we serve, know that your generosity and support are greatly appreciated. Thank you for helping SEF provide more children with the gift of sound. Donations accepted through April 5, 2024 https://sef-stl.org/fundraising/arbeiter-donation.html
Online SSD Resources to Help Families
Visit SSDMO.org for links to resources that will direct you to information that will be helpful throughout the year - bookmark the webpage to make it easy to find. The links below apply to all students county-wide who receive services from SSD.
Special School District of St. Louis County
Website: www.ssdmo.org
Location: 12110 Clayton Road, St. Louis, MO, USA
Phone: 314.989.8100
Facebook: www.facebook.com/SSDStLCo
Twitter: @SSDDStLCo
Riverview Gardens School District
Website: http://www.rgsd.k12.mo.us/
Location: 1370 Northumberland Drive, St. Louis, MO, USA
Phone: 314-869-2505