SCSD Newsletter

Brrr, the chilly winds are starting to blow, and winter is just around the corner! As we gear up for the colder months, it's important to stay informed about potential snow days and Alternative Methods of Instruction (AMI) days that may be ahead.

We've put together a comprehensive guide to help you understand how and when the district will implement snow/AMI days this year. Taking a few minutes to review this document now can make a big difference in staying prepared for whatever winter weather throws our way!

It's with immense pride and the loudest of cheers that we celebrate the phenomenal victory of the St. Charles West Warriors girls cross-country team. They've not just run a race; they've etched their names into the history books by clinching the Missouri Class 3 State Championship for the second consecutive year!

In a display of relentless determination and unparalleled teamwork, our girls faced the challenge head-on and emerged victorious, defending their title with the heart of warriors. The trails of the course witnessed their speed, the air echoed their strides, and now the trophy shines with their success.

In addition to the team placing 1st, runners Brianna Krueger placed 3rd, Claire Horstmann placed 8th, Miley Jackson placed 24th and Genevieve Wacker placed 28th, earning individual medals as well.

Way to go Warriors!

In a formidable display of endurance and teamwork, the SCHS boys cross country team sailed to a notable finish at the Missouri Class 4 State Championship, securing the 8th position in a sea of contenders.

The brisk autumn air was charged with anticipation as the Pirates took their marks. With each stride over the undulating course, our team showcased what it means to move as one — their unity steering them through a challenging field of competitors.

Highlighting the day was Nate Maples, who, with unwavering focus and swift legs, crossed the finish line 18th overall, clinching an individual medal. His performance was not just a personal triumph but a beacon of Pirate pride, inspiring teammates and onlookers alike.

Great job Pirates!

This week, November 6-10, we celebrate School Psychologist Week! It's a time to recognize and honor the impactful work that school psychologists do for our students. They are the guiding forces that help navigate the complex seas of learning and mental health. Their dedication to fostering safe and supportive school environments is unparalleled.

Let's take a moment to appreciate the tireless efforts, the compassionate listening, and the unwavering support these incredible professionals provide every day. They not only help our students thrive academically but also ensure their emotional well-being.

Thank you, school psychologists, for everything you do to make our schools a better place for all. Your work does not go unnoticed!

A round of applause is in order for our Hardin Middle School musical maestros! On the 20th and 23rd of October, a daring group of 22 students auditioned for the esteemed SLSMEA All-Suburban Band, facing some seriously tough music. It's not just about hitting the right notes—it's about having the guts to try.

We're thrilled to bits to let you all know that not three, not four, but 7 of our very own were chosen to join the ranks of the SLSMEA All-Suburban Jazz Band, Concert Band and Orchestra!

These students will be rubbing elbows with the finest middle school musicians in the St. Louis Area, learning from guest conductors, and getting ready to dazzle us all at the All-Suburban Concerts on January 6th at Ladue High School for the orchestra and January 7th at Kirkwood High School for the jazz and concert bands.

Stand up and cheer for these stars:

Nolan Kennedy - Jazz Band's go-to for Bass Guitar grooves

Tenaya Dessain - Wielding the French Horn with finesse for the Concert Band

Brody Higgins - Another French Horn aficionado in the Concert Band

Gordon Robben - Tuba talent in the Concert Band

Branden Flannigan - Trombone double-threat in both Concert and Jazz Bands

Alexa Branson - Orchestra's string sensation

Carter Crumble - Adding another layer of orchestral excellence

Your talent shines bright, and we can't wait to see you perform in January!

This past weekend (Oct 29-30), seven of our driven St. Charles High DECA members embarked on a journey to enhance their leadership and marketing prowess at the Missouri DECA Fall Leadership Conference, nestled in the scenic Lake of the Ozarks.

The conference was a hive of activity, offering five dynamic sessions focusing on leadership, competition strategies, and a deep dive into the world of DECA and marketing. Our students didn't just learn; they connected, sharing ideas and experiences with DECA peers from across Missouri.

Our industrious attendees also played a pivotal role in shaping the future of DECA by participating in the election process for state-level leadership positions.

Let's give a virtual round of applause to our participants: Isaac Black, Mackenzie Bufford, Jayden Carey, Riley Derrington, Phillip Hyde, Natasha Johns, and Noah Upton.

And a special shout-out to Judy Simmons, our dedicated SCHS DECA advisor, for guiding our students on this enriching journey.

Way to represent, Pirates! Your DECA chapter is proud of you, and we can't wait to see the great things you'll achieve this year!

What a Friday to remember! On October 20th, Jefferson's talented students from Mrs. Lowe's Choir and General Music classes immersed themselves in the magical world of opera with Opera Theater St. Louis.

Through three captivating workshops, our students explored the art of character and movement, delved into the transformative power of stage makeup, and harmonized their singing with the dramatic flair of opera.

But that's not all! The entire 6th grade had the fantastic opportunity to experience the rhythmic beauty and historical significance of Scott Joplin's opera, "Treemonisha."

It was a day filled with melody, creativity, and learning, showcasing the incredible potential of our young artists. Bravo to all our students for embracing this cultural journey with such enthusiasm!

Friday, Oct. 27th and Monday, Oct. 30th was nothing short of inspiring as our incredible team of educators came together for a Professional Development Day full of learning, growth, and enthusiasm!

Even when the classrooms are empty, our commitment to providing the best education for our students never wavers. We are constantly striving to sharpen our skills, embrace new ideas, and create an enriching learning environment for every student.

A massive shoutout to the phenomenal Joe Sanfelippo for gracing us with his wisdom and energy as our keynote speaker! His funny, engaging, and heartfelt words left a lasting impact, reminding us of the powerful role we play in shaping the future.

Here's to continuous learning and growing together as a community.

The St. Charles High School orchestra hosted students from Lincoln, Blackhurst, Monroe, and Jefferson on October 17th for a fun and interactive orchestral performance! The audience was dazzled with music from Encanto, Coco, The Little Mermaid, and The Mandalorian. Since it was close to Halloween, the orchestra also played Thriller! The coolest aspect of this event was when the audience was given a chance to try the instruments of the orchestra. Fun was had by all!

Monroe is over the moon to have some real innovators on our team. There were two staff members who received Foundation Grants for their out-of-this-world ideas last year. Not only did they create projects to benefit their own classrooms, but they have graciously opened up their projects for the whole school’s benefit.

Third-grade teacher Kate Waidman has created a vertical garden that supports the Life Science objectives for each grade level. It currently holds enough mature lettuce to make salad for just about the whole school! She has been visiting different classrooms and the kids have had fun tasting lettuce from the rocket-shaped indoor garden.

Katie Elfen, third grade, used her grant funds to create a Novel Engineering cart for the school to enjoy. If you are not familiar with novel engineering, it is a great way to get younger students to think about problems found in a storybook and to use the Scientific Method to engineer a solution. Students love expanding their thinking with these engaging, hands-on kits and materials. Way to go ladies!

Hardin’s Peer Ambassadors will be hosting their annual Veterans Day Assembly on Friday, November 10th. Breakfast (donuts provided by Donut King) and coffee will be provided to Veterans from 7:20-8:15 am followed by the assembly. Please fill out the following form to share pictures and information about your veteran.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfv_c3F87GCSRA0a_o_9Y8LC7yO5h72f3KIB1MjzFUVKwrpPQ/viewform

The game is afoot! Come see the Pirate Players of SCHS unravel the mystery in our fall play, Sherlock Holmes. Playing Friday, November 17th and Saturday the 18th at 7 p.m., doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets will be $7 for students and $10 for adults. We hope to see you there!

The SCW Class of 2024 is ready to pick up your donations. Please fill out our form and let us know when you're ready. https://forms.gle/XkJS4L5hvuppN6aTA

We appreciate your support! All funds raised will go towards the all-night grad party in June.

Email: publicrelations@stcharlessd.org
Website: www.stcharlessd.org
Location: 400 North 6th Street, Saint Charles, MO, USA
Phone: 636-443-4000
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cityofstcharlesschooldistrict
Twitter: @StChasCitySch