Academic Achiever: Family/Staff

Happy New Year and Welcome to 2025 -

As we embark on the new year, we celebrate the incredible achievements of our school district, marked by a significant increase in academic performance across more than half of our schools. This remarkable progress is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our scholars, educators, and families.

I am filled with excitement and anticipation for all that lies ahead. The start of the new year is a time for renewal and setting our sights on how we will continue to WIN and LEARN. Together, we will build on our momentum and drive forward in our mission to support and uplift our scholars.

I am also excited to welcome our new staff members, who will bring a fresh perspective and enthusiasm to SLPS. Their contributions will undoubtedly enhance consistency throughout the district.

Looking ahead, we are eager to support the Class of 2025 and help them reach new heights in their academic journey.

Additionally, congratulations once again to our School Spelling Bee winners, who were recognized at Literacy for the Lou, hosted at the Missouri History Museum. These talented students will now compete in the District-Wide Spelling Bee at CVPA on January 8th. This event provides a wonderful opportunity for our students to showcase their talents in a supportive environment. Alongside the Spelling Bee, SLPS also hosted a STEM Fair, which continues to inspire innovation and creativity among our scholars. Our students also participated in the First Lego League and once again qualified for the next level of competition.

These events, along with many others, will help shape a strong and successful spring semester as we continue to prioritize student achievement and community engagement.

In my commitment to transparency and continuous improvement, the Management Assessment has been completed and its recommendations released. These insights will guide our practices and policies moving forward, and I look forward to implementing them together as a community.

As we prepare for the 2025-2026 school year, I encourage you to participate in registering your student during the priority window from January 21, 2025 - March 8, 2025. Your input is vital in helping us identify who needs transportation, ensuring that every eligible student has access to reliable transportation to and from school.

Sincerely,

Dr. Millicent Borishade

Interim Superintendent

Saint Louis Public Schools

• January 3rd - Second Quarter Report Cards Released
• January 6th - Students Return From Winter Break
• January 14th - Board of Education Meeting @ Yeatman-Liddell Middle School (6:30 PM Start Time)
• January 20th - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday (All SLPS Schools and Offices Closed)
• January 21st - 2025-2026 SLPS Student Registration Period Begins

Saint Louis Public Schools is proud to share the results of our Annual Performance Review (APR), conducted as part of the Missouri School Improvement Program (MSIP 6). This review provides a detailed look at how our district is performing in critical areas, highlighting successes and identifying opportunities for growth.

What Is the APR?
The APR evaluates districts on their performance in several categories, including academic achievement, student readiness, graduation rates, attendance, and continuous improvement. A maximum of 200 points can be earned across these areas. 140 points earned for performance and 60 points for continuous improvement.

SLPS Performance Highlights

Here’s a snapshot of our progress:

• Academic Growth:
  • Mathematics scores saw significant improvement, earning 9 out of 12 possible points in 2024, up from prior years.
  • English Language Arts continues to perform consistently, with steady scores reflecting robust instructional practices.
• Success-Ready Students:
  • SLPS earned 5 points for College and Career Readiness (CCR) assessments and 5 points for advanced credit opportunities, demonstrating our commitment to preparing students for life beyond high school.
• Graduation Rates:
  • The district achieved full points for the 4-, 5-, and 7-year adjusted cohort graduation rates, highlighting our success in helping students achieve their diplomas over time.
• Continuous Improvement:
  • Perfect scores were achieved in several areas, including improvement plans and climate and culture surveys. These results reflect our focus on fostering a positive and productive learning environment.

Areas for Growth
While SLPS has much to celebrate, some areas require additional attention:

• Attendance: Improving attendance remains a priority, as consistent participation is crucial for student success.
• Science and Social Studies: While gains were noted, these subjects continue to offer opportunities for further growth in student outcomes.

Looking Ahead
SLPS is dedicated to continuous improvement. The insights from the APR guide our strategies to enhance instruction, support student needs, and build on our successes.

Thank you to our teachers, staff, parents, and students for contributing to these achievements. Together, we are moving SLPS forward. For more details, visit DESE’s MSIP 6 Comprehensive Guide.

Starting January 21, 2025, Saint Louis Public Schools (SLPS) will introduce a new online-only registration process for the 2025-2026 school year. This updated system is designed to improve efficiency and ensure smooth planning for the upcoming school year. Here’s what families need to know about the changes:

• Online Registration Only: All student registrations must be completed online.
• In-Person Assistance Available:
  • On Tuesday, January 21st, Tuesday, February 11th, and Tuesday, March 4th, members of the Office of Student Recruitment and Placement will provide help from 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM at:
    • Hickey Elementary
    • Servicing families from nearby schools such as: Ames, Walbridge, Lexington, Ashland, Bryan Hill, Columbia, George Washington Carver, Laclede, Patrick Henry, Hamilton, Jefferson, Nance, Washington Montessori, Yeatman, Gateway Elementary, Middle, and Michael, Carr Lane, Pamoja, Sumner, Vashon, Clyde C. Miller, Soldan and Herzog
    • Oak Hill Elementary
    • Servicing families from nearby schools: Woerner, Buder, Woodward, Meramec, Froebel, Mason, Busch, Betty Wheeler, Mallinckrodt, Shaw, Peabody, Lyon @ Blow, Madison, Wilkinson, Carnahan, and Monroe
    • Nahed Chapman New American Academy
    • Servicing families from nearby schools: Adams, Dewey, Stix, Mason, Hodgen, Sigel, Shenandoah, Mullanphy, Mann, Humboldt, AESM, Compton Drew, Long, McKinley, Notthingham, Roosevelt, Gateway STEM, Collegiate, Metro,, Central VPA, and Peabody
  • Assistance will also be available at SLPS Central Office (801 N. 11th St., St. Louis, MO 63101) from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Registration Required for All Students: Both current SLPS students and new students must be registered for the 2025-2026 school year.
• Transportation Opt-In: Families must indicate if their student(s) will require transportation services during the registration process.
• Before/After School Care Planning: Parents/guardians will have the option to confirm if their student(s) will participate in before and/or after school care.

These changes aim to:

• Give the district an early start on planning for the school year.
• Optimize transportation routes and ensure all bus stops serve students effectively.
• Plan for adequate staffing and resources for before and after care programs.

Priority Registration Period

Families are strongly encouraged to register early during the priority registration window, January 21st – March 8th, 2025. Registrations completed within this timeframe will have priority access to transportation and before/after school care services. Registrations will still be accepted after March 8th, but families who register after this date will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis for these services.

How SLPS Will Keep Families Informed

SLPS is committed to ensuring all families are aware of this new process. Information will be shared through district and school communication channels, so families have all the details they need to complete registration successfully.

Stay tuned for additional updates and instructions as we approach the January 21st launch date. Together, we can ensure a smooth and successful start to the 2025-2026 school year!

As we approach the upcoming School Board Elections, we would like to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to Vice President Davis and Board Member N. Vowell for their years of dedicated service to Saint Louis Public Schools.

Their unwavering commitment to our students and community has left a lasting impact on our district. The decisions they’ve made and the initiatives they’ve championed have shaped not only the policies of SLPS but also the educational experiences of countless scholars.

While they have chosen not to seek re-election, their legacy of leadership, vision, and service will continue to inspire and guide us in the years to come.

On behalf of Saint Louis Public Schools, we extend our deepest thanks and wish them the very best in their future endeavors.

Second quarter report cards will be released on January 3, 2025. Parents can access their student’s report card online through the Parent Portal.

We encourage families to review their student’s progress and reach out to teachers or school staff with any questions or concerns. Thank you for supporting your student’s success.

SLPS is committed to identifying, locating, and evaluating all children residing within the district who may have disabilities and require special education and related services. This includes children who are homeless, in foster care, or attending private schools within the SLPS boundaries.

Through the Child Find program, SLPS conducts outreach to ensure every child has access to the resources they need to thrive. Our efforts include placing posters in school offices, publishing notices in local newspapers, broadcasting announcements on radio and TV stations, and sharing written information with families.

These proactive steps help us connect with students who may benefit from special education services, ensuring equitable access to a high-quality education for all.

For additional information or questions about Child Find at SLPS, staff may contact the Office of Special Education at 314-633-5300.

SLPS is proud to introduce the T-Mobile CPR3 (Connecting People, Resources, and Resiliency) program, an initiative designed to provide critical technological connectivity and resources to students and families in transition. This program will distribute 1,000 CPR3 phones to students in the Students in Transition (SIT) program, with a focus on supporting unhoused students.

What is the CPR3 Program?

The CPR3 program offers comprehensive support to ensure students and families have the tools they need to stay connected and access essential resources. Key features include:

• Unlimited Talk and Text: Facilitates seamless communication between parents, students, and school staff to address immediate academic and personal needs.
• Access to Essential Resources: Provides instant access to shelters, food banks, healthcare facilities, transportation, and other vital services, helping to reduce barriers to school attendance.
• Support for Educational Success: Ensures students can stay engaged with their education, complete assignments, and participate in virtual learning when necessary. The devices include hotspot capabilities to connect up to eight additional devices.

Benefits for Students and Families in Transition

• Improved Attendance: Reliable communication and access to resources help reduce absenteeism by addressing students' immediate needs, ensuring consistent school attendance.
• Enhanced Learning Opportunities: Connectivity allows students to participate in online classes, access educational materials, and complete assignments, particularly important for those without stable housing.
• Family Support: The program enables better communication between families, school personnel, and SLPS support staff, facilitating timely interventions and assistance with social services, counseling, transportation, and more.
• Community Engagement: By providing tools and resources, the CPR3 program fosters a sense of stability and belonging for families in transition, helping them stay connected to their communities.

This initiative bridges the digital divide and supports the educational and personal well-being of students and families in transition within SLPS. The devices will be distributed to eligible 9th, 10th, and 11th-grade students under the McKinney-Vento program during the week of January 6th, 2025.

For more information, please contact Dr. Deidra Thomas-Murray, Director of Students in Transition and Homeless and Foster Care Liaison, via email at deidra.thomas-murray@slps.org.

Celebrating 60 years of partnership with Saint Louis Public Schools, Springboard to Learning continues to provide arts-integrated classroom residencies in elementary and middle schools. By pairing teaching artists with classroom teachers, these programs engage students in cross-curricular instruction that uses the arts to support district initiatives in literacy, math, science, and social studies.

Residencies include a wide range of creative disciplines such as storytelling, puppetry, picture book making, improv theater, playwriting, songwriting, spoken word and poetry, world percussion, ballet, jazz dance, hip-hop dance, and invention prototype design. These programs not only foster academic growth but also emphasize the “4 C’s” of 21st-century learning: Creativity, Communication, Collaboration, and Critical Thinking.

This year, 5th-grade scholars at Dewey International Studies and Mason Elementary are participating in the WiseWrite program. Through this experience, students learn the fundamentals of playwriting—from brainstorming to drafting and revising their own scripts. Each student will become a published playwright, and twelve of their plays will be selected for performance by professional actors at the Sheldon Concert Hall on April 14th.

Three Dynamic Program Formats
Springboard programs are delivered through three flexible formats:

• Residency: A series of in-depth sessions led by a teaching artist, providing immersive experiences that connect arts with academic content.
• Workshop: A single session for up to 30 students, offering hands-on, creative learning activities.
• Performance: An assembly for up to 300 students, showcasing skills or cultural themes through engaging demonstrations and audience participation.

Real Impact, Real Growth
Springboard to Learning programs leave lasting impressions on students and educators alike.

Kaitlin Gaffney of Woerner Elementary reflected on her experience, sharing:

Brittani Allen similarly noted the transformative power of the residency format:

Dr. Blondel I. Rall of Gateway Middle School described one unforgettable moment:

Inspiring Future Generations
For six decades, Springboard to Learning has enriched the educational landscape of Saint Louis, empowering students to grow both academically and personally through arts-integrated experiences. Programs like WiseWrite and others continue to inspire students, providing the tools they need to succeed and shine.

We are pleased to announce that Dr. Millicent Borishade, Interim Superintendent of Saint Louis Public Schools, will be delivering her State of the District address this month. In this important presentation, Dr. Borishade will reflect on the district's successes, the lessons we've learned, and outline the path forward as we continue to strive for excellence in education.

This address will provide valuable insights into the progress we’ve made as a district and how we plan to build on that momentum in the coming months. Families and staff are encouraged to tune in and join us for this exciting update on the future of SLPS.

Stay tuned for more details on the date and time of the address.

For students pursuing college athletics, early decision periods provide an opportunity to secure their futures both on the field and in the classroom. Below are key dates for signing periods for NCAA Division I and Division II sports.

Important Dates:

• Division I Basketball:

  • Early Period: November 13 – November 20, 2024
  • Regular Period: April 16 – May 21, 2025

• Division I Football:

  • Early Period: December 4 – December 6, 2024
  • Mid-Year JC Transfer: December 4, 2024 – January 15, 2025
  • Regular Period: February 5 – April 1, 2025

• Division II Football:

  • Mid-Year JC Transfer: December 4, 2024 – January 15, 2025
  • Regular Period: February 5 – August 1, 2025

• All Other Division I and Division II Sports:

  • November 13, 2024 – August 1, 2025

These periods are critical for students planning to sign National Letters of Intent (NLI) and continue their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level. Students should work closely with their coaches and counselors to ensure all necessary steps are completed on time.

For additional information and support, students and families are encouraged to reach out to their school counselors.

Saint Louis Public Schools is committed to fostering a love of reading and ensuring equitable access to educational resources through its Literacy for the Lou initiative. As part of this effort, SLPS has distributed thousands of books to students, helping them build personal libraries at home. These resources aim to spark curiosity and encourage lifelong learning.

In addition to providing physical books, SLPS is now partnering with the St. Louis Public Library to give students access to its extensive digital collection through a new eLibrary card. This program offers a wealth of resources to support learning and discovery.

With this new digital access, students can:

• Borrow eBooks and audiobooks
• Access research databases and educational tools
• Explore digital collections and much more

SLPS has emailed library card login credentials to all students who did not opt out of the library card program. The email was sent to students' SLPS email addresses and includes their usernames and passwords.

To access the eLibrary, visit slpl.org and use the login credentials provided.

If you/your student did not receive their login credentials, please email Jordan Grimes by email at Jordan.Grimes@slps.org

This eLibrary card is a valuable tool for supporting academic growth, encouraging reading, and providing students with the resources they need to succeed. We encourage all SLPS students to take full advantage of this new benefit.

On Friday, December 13, 2024, Saint Louis Public Schools held its Practice the Pivot event to prepare students and staff for potential Alternative Method of Instruction (AMI) days. These AMI days, which will be utilized in the event of inclement weather or unplanned school closures, allow learning to continue virtually instead of canceling classes.

Highlights from the Practice Session:

• Full Participation: All staff and students, including those who do not currently take technology home, actively participated in the event.
• Instructional Focus: The session replicated a full AMI instructional block, with students and teachers engaging in virtual learning activities to ensure familiarity with the process.
• Real-Time Practice: Students practiced using their devices, accessing materials online, and completing tasks in a virtual setting.

For students without a district-issued device, packets should have been sent home with them. Please contact your school if your student did not receive a packet.

This event helped ensure that everyone is prepared to transition smoothly to virtual learning if AMI days become necessary. Thank you to our students, families, and staff for making the Practice the Pivot a success! Together, we’re ready to keep learning, no matter the circumstances.

Beginning in January 2025, the Saint Louis Public School District will transition to digital menus for all schools. This convenient tool provides families with easy access to school meal information online.

How to Access the Menus:

1. Visit the SLPS Website at www.slps.org.
2. • Go to the Food and Nutrition Services page:
     • Use the Quick Links on the homepage, or
     • Navigate through the Families tab in the main menu.
3. On the Food and Nutrition page:
   • Click the View Our Menu tab, or
   • Use the Menus floating button in the lower-right corner to locate your school’s menu.
4. To download a PDF of the menu, click the Download Our Menu tab.

Alternatively, you can go directly to the menus using the following link:
Nutrislice Digital Menus

This new system provides quick and reliable access to updated meal information for families. Explore the digital menus today to see what's being served.

As we move into the new year, we’d like to provide an update on both the progress of the Request for Proposals (RFP) for transportation services and the registration process for the upcoming school year.

Transportation RFP Timeline
The RFP for Transportation Services has followed a detailed timeline to ensure a smooth and transparent process. Below is a quick overview of the key dates:

• RFP Documents Released: November 15, 2024, at 5:00 PM
• RFP Questions Due: December 6, 2024, at 5:00 PM
• RFP Questions Answered: December 10, 2024, at 5:00 PM
• RFP Proposal Due Date: December 16, 2024, at 5:00 PM
• RFP Bid Opening: December 17, 2024, at 9:00 AM
• Contract Award: February 11, 2025

The bid opening was successfully conducted in December, and we are now in the final stages of evaluating proposals. The contract is expected to be awarded on February 11, 2025.

Transportation Routing Software RFP
In addition to the transportation services RFP, we are also moving forward with the Transportation Routing Software RFP, released on December 13, 2024. A Transportation Vendor Meeting was held on December 23, 2024, to discuss the next steps. This software will be integral in streamlining transportation services for the district in the coming school year.

Opting Into Transportation for Next Year
As part of planning for the 2025–2026 school year, all families who require transportation services must opt in during the open registration period from January 21, to March 8, 2025. This is an essential step to ensure that transportation needs are met for the next academic year.

We encourage all families who need transportation to register during this period to guarantee their transportation request is processed in time.

Thank you for your continued support as we finalize transportation plans for the next school year.

As Saint Louis Public Schools (SLPS) continues the process of updating district policies, the initial area of focus has been on Finance policies. In collaboration with the Missouri School Board Association (MSBA), all SLPS Finance policies have been thoroughly reviewed, and drafts were shared with the district for feedback.

To guide this work, a Task Force was assembled, including representatives from Human Resources, Finance, Academics, and the Board of Education. This team carefully reviewed the drafts created by MSBA, provided detailed feedback, posed essential questions, and resubmitted comments for further refinement.

MSBA is now in the process of reviewing SLPS’s input and addressing the questions raised by the Task Force. Once this review is complete, the updated Finance policies will be finalized and presented to the Board of Education for an initial review in January 2025, followed by a final review and adoption in February 2025.

This ongoing collaboration ensures SLPS policies remain in full compliance with all local, state, and federal laws while supporting the district’s operational and educational goals. Stay tuned for further updates.

As winter sets in, it’s essential for families to understand Saint Louis Public Schools’ Inclement Weather Policy (R6114.6) to ensure everyone is prepared for changes to the school schedule. The safety of our students and staff is always our top priority when extreme weather conditions arise.

In the event of extreme temperatures, snow, or hazardous conditions, the Superintendent or their designee may decide to:

1. Hold school as usual,
2. Close schools entirely, or
3. Implement an abbreviated school day—where schools may open late, close early, or both.

How Decisions Are Made
SLPS relies on a range of information, including weather forecasts, road conditions, and input from city and state agencies. Factors such as icy roads, heavy snow, and utility disruptions may necessitate school closures or schedule adjustments.

Communication
If a schedule change is necessary, SLPS will notify families as quickly as possible through:

• Robo calls and emails,
• District website updates, and
• Local TV and radio announcements.

What to Expect

• Full Closure: If schools are closed for inclement weather, administrative offices will typically remain open unless announced otherwise.
• Early Dismissal: If conditions worsen during the day, schools may dismiss early. Students and staff will follow established dismissal protocols, and families will be notified promptly.

We encourage parents to review their emergency contact information and ensure it’s up to date in the district’s records. For more details, visit our website or contact your school office.

Let’s work together to stay safe and keep learning through the winter months!

As part of our ongoing efforts to optimize resources and support the educational needs of our students, Saint Louis Public Schools (SLPS) is moving forward with the sale of several school buildings that are no longer in use. These properties, once integral to our community, now present an exciting opportunity for revitalization.

Below is a list of properties currently available for sale:

These properties provide a unique opportunity for redevelopment and community investment. For more information about the sale process or to inquire about a specific property, please contact Shameika Henry, Director of Planning and Real Estate.

As you plan for your future, it’s essential to understand the resources available through the Public School Retirement System of the City of St. Louis (PSRSSTL). Established in 1944, PSRSSTL provides retirement, disability, death, and survivor benefits for:

• Employees of the St. Louis Public School District (SLPS)
• Employees of PSRSSTL
• Employees of Charter Schools within the SLPS District
• Certain employees of Harris-Stowe State University

Key Features of PSRSSTL

• Members are covered by both PSRSSTL and Social Security, meaning you can receive full Social Security benefits alongside Plan benefits.
• The Plan is funded by member and employer contributions, as well as investment earnings on its assets.
• Participation is mandatory for eligible employees as a condition of employment.

Whether you’re just beginning your career or nearing retirement, it’s never too early to prepare. To learn more, visit the PSRSSTL website at psrsstl.org or contact the PSRSSTL office directly.

Contact Information

• Address: 3641 Olive St., Suite 300, St. Louis, MO 63108
• Phone: 314-534-7444
• Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

For SLPS employees planning to retire, remember to complete the retirement form as part of the process.

Take charge of your retirement planning today to secure the future you deserve!

The Parsons Blewett Memorial Fund offers scholarships to full-time SLPS teachers and administrators pursuing further education in their field. Eligible applicants must have a valid Missouri teaching certificate and at least one year of continuous service.

Scholarships cover tuition for up to six credit hours per semester, with a lifetime maximum of $30,000. Application cycles are available for spring, summer, and fall.

For more information and to apply, visit the Parsons Blewett Scholarship page.

This program is a fantastic way for educators to enhance their professional skills and continue making a difference in the lives of SLPS students!

Saint Louis Public Schools proudly recognizes the dedication and commitment of our employees who are celebrating milestone anniversaries this month. Thank you for your years of service and for making a lasting impact on our students and community.

35 Years of Service

• David Vincent – Fresh Start, Secondary Social Studies Teacher (Hired: 1/22/1990)
• Melody Clay – Gateway Institute of Technology, Secretary II (Hired: 1/22/1990)

30 Years of Service

• Todd Vierling – Busch Middle School of Character & Athletics, Elementary Counselor (Hired: 1/16/1995)
• Mara Wansong – Special Education, Psychological Examiner (Hired: 1/16/1995)
• Mary Donelson – Monroe Elementary School, Elementary School Secretary (Hired: 1/23/1995)
• Antoinette Easley-Scales – Ames VPA Elementary, Elementary School Secretary (Hired: 1/30/1995)

25 Years of Service

• Tiquila Collins-McCoy – Hodgen Elementary, Early Childhood Teacher Assistant (Hired: 1/3/2000)
• Maisha Ellison – Gateway Elementary, Elementary Computer Teacher (Hired: 1/8/2000)
• Donald Abernathy – Building Commissioner, Head Custodian (Hired: 1/15/2000)
• Stephanie Carter – Woerner Elementary, Regular Classroom Teacher (Hired: 1/15/2000)
• William Drennen – Central VPA, Secondary Instrumental Music Teacher (Hired: 1/15/2000)
• Matthew Hoertel – Busch Middle School of Character & Athletics, Middle School Social Studies Teacher (Hired: 1/15/2000)
• Armando Lopez – Fiscal Control Office, Accountant III (Hired: 1/22/2000)
• Shantrell Berry-Newman – Griscom School, Secretary II (Hired: 1/29/2000)
• Althea Mosley – Wilkinson ECC II, Library Aide (Hired: 1/29/2000)
• Stephen Davis – Academy of Environmental Science & Mathematics, Elementary Physical Education Teacher (Hired: 1/29/2000)
• Barbara Jackson – Clyde Miller Career Academy, In-School Suspension Monitor (Hired: 1/31/2000)
• Charlie Bean – Career Education, Dropout Recruiter (Hired: 1/31/2000)

20 Years of Service

• Marlene Glover – Special Education, Assistant Director of Special Education (Hired: 1/3/2005)
• Ravetta Jackson – Chief Academic Office, Multi-Tiered System of Supports Specialist (Hired: 1/3/2005)
• Sarah Heaney – State and Federal Programs, Academic Instructional Coach (Hired: 1/3/2005)
• Linda Lampkin – Hodgen Elementary, Special Education Instructional Care Aide (Hired: 1/19/2005)

10 Years of Service

• Marlowe Brown – Special Services, Safety Officer (Hired: 1/6/2015)
• Ashley Hill – Bertha Gilkey Pamoja @ Cole, Kindergarten Teacher (Hired: 1/13/2015)
• Sharon Lofton – Clyde Miller Career Academy, Secondary Mathematics Teacher (Hired: 1/13/2015)
• Shelice Hardin – Chief Academic Office, Secretary III (Hired: 1/27/2015)
• Courtney Draper – Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis Specialist (Hired: 1/27/2015)

5 Years of Service

• Sebastien Babolat – Nahed Chapman New American Academy, Remedial Reading Teacher (Hired: 1/6/2020)
• Almondo Conner – Building Commissioner, HVAC Technician (Hired: 1/6/2020)
• Nathan Abbett – Building Commissioner, Locksmith (Hired: 1/6/2020)
• Daphne Nutall – Building Commissioner, Custodian (Hired: 1/6/2020)
• Jordan Grimes – Public Information & Communications Outreach, Internal Communications Liaison (Hired: 1/7/2020)
• Macler Cody – Vashon High, Attendance Monitor (Hired: 1/14/2020)
• Leila Green – Metro Academic and Classical High School, Secondary Social Studies Teacher (Hired: 1/20/2020)
• Maurice Jamerson – Clyde Miller Career Academy, Interim Learning Associate (Hired: 1/31/2020)

Congratulations to all of this month's honorees! Your dedication and service to our district are deeply appreciated and celebrated.

We are excited to announce the graduation schedule for the Class of 2025. Each school will hold its ceremony at the dates, times, and locations listed below. We look forward to celebrating the achievements of our graduating seniors with their families and communities.

Thursday, May 15, 2025

• Gateway STEM: Chase Park Plaza, 12:00 PM
• Clyde C. Miller: Harris-Stowe State University (HSSU), 3:00 PM
• Metro Academic and Classical: HSSU, 6:00 PM

Friday, May 16, 2025

• Nottingham CAJT: Nottingham, 9:00 AM
• Sumner High School: HSSU, 3:00 PM
• Roosevelt High School: HSSU, 6:00 PM

Saturday, May 17, 2025

• Central Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA): CVPA, 9:00 AM
• Vashon High School: HSSU, 12:00 PM
• Soldan International Studies: HSSU, 3:00 PM
• Virtual Academy/High School Success: HSSU, 6:00 PM

Sunday, May 18, 2025

• Collegiate School of Medicine and Bioscience (CSMB): The Sheldon, 3:00 PM
• McKinley Classical Leadership Academy: The Sheldon, 6:00 PM

For additional details or questions about specific ceremonies, please contact your school principal.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025. We cannot wait to celebrate your hard work and achievements.

Korra Watt, a 5th grader from Mallinckrodt Elementary, is our featured January 2025 Portrait of a Graduate Student. Korra recently earned 1st place in her school’s STEM Fair, demonstrating the creativity, determination, and love for learning that define a Portrait of a Graduate student.

In her video interview, Korra shares her inspirations, hobbies, and dreams for the future, along with the motivation and role models that fuel her success. Stay tuned for her full feature to learn more about this bright and ambitious young leader.

Saint Louis Public Schools is excited to announce the Bayer YMCA Martin Luther King Jr. Writing Contest as part of the 40th Gateway Region YMCA Annual MLK Commemorative Breakfast. This year’s theme, "Everyday Change Makers: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy through Nonviolent Action," challenges students to reflect on Dr. King’s legacy and explore how nonviolence remains a powerful tool for change.

Contest Details:

• Eligibility: Open to high school juniors and seniors.
• Submission Deadline: Monday, January 6, 2025, by 5:00 PM.
• Essay Length: 750 words maximum, double-spaced, 12-point font.
• Submission Requirements: Include a cover page with your name, grade level, school name, email, and contact phone number. Submit essays to Sharon Holbrooks at sharon.holbrooks@gwrymca.org.

Writing Prompts (Choose One):

1. Finding Your Voice as an Everyday Hero: Reflect on an issue in your school or community and share how nonviolent actions can inspire meaningful change.
2. Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in Today’s World: Discuss how young people can address a current issue through nonviolence and why this approach remains impactful.
3. Embodying the Spirit of Nonviolence in a Divided World: Share your experience resolving conflict peacefully or imagine how you’d handle a challenge through nonviolence.

Scholarship Prizes:

• 1st Place: $2,000
• 2nd Place: $1,500
• 3rd Place: $1,000
  Scholarship funds will be sent directly to the winners’ chosen post-secondary institutions.

Event Details:
The winners will be recognized at the 40th Annual Gateway Region YMCA MLK Commemorative Breakfast on Monday, January 20, 2025, from 7:00 AM –9:00 AM at the Marriott St. Louis Airport (10700 Pear Tree Lane, St. Louis, MO 63134).

Judging Criteria:
Essays will be evaluated on content, organization, and mechanics by members of the National Association of Black Journalists - St. Louis, ensuring alignment with Dr. King’s vision of storytelling and advocacy.

For questions, contact Sharon R. Holbrooks at sharon.holbrooks@gwrymca.org. Don’t miss this opportunity to share your voice and compete for scholarships to support your future!

This month, we’re highlighting the district’s Reading and Writing Initiative and its impact at Jefferson Elementary School. Now in its second year, the initiative has expanded from six to twelve schools and is scaling across grade levels to enhance literacy instruction districtwide.

At Jefferson Elementary, professional development sessions led by Cathy Feldman equip teachers, AICs, and administrators with effective strategies for reading and writing instruction. Teachers collaborate during common planning time to design daily lessons centered on learning targets, success criteria, and engaging instructional techniques such as choral reading, chunking text, and higher-order questioning. These approaches provide students with clear guidance and opportunities to connect deeply with texts, fostering improved comprehension and communication skills.

Stay tuned for more updates on how the Reading and Writing Initiative is transforming literacy learning at Jefferson and across the district.

When: Thursday, January 9, 2025, 5:30 PM -7:00 PM (Dinner at 5:00 PM)
Where: SLPS Central Office, 801 N. 11th St., Room 108

Highlights:

• Breakout sessions for all grade levels: career exploration, FAFSA, scholarships, and more.

• Resources for adult education and literacy.

• Free childcare, interpreters, and attendance prizes!

Don’t miss this chance to support your child’s success.

Cick here for a recap from December's Parent University class.

Upcoming Dates

• PAC Meeting: Thursday, January 16, 2025, 6:30 - 8:00 PM
• Day of Action Training (via Zoom):
• Session 1: Thursday, January 30, 2025 | 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
• Session 2: Friday, January 31, 2025 | 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
• Parent Day of Action 2025: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 | All Day, Jefferson City

Parent Day of Action 2025

On Tuesday, February 4, 2025, PAC members, SLPS parents, and community advocates will head to the State Capitol in Jefferson City. This all-day event provides an opportunity to directly engage with legislators and champion the needs and priorities of Saint Louis Public Schools.

Day of Action Training Overview

Join one of our two training sessions to prepare for this impactful day of advocacy. During the sessions, SLPS parents and community members will:

• Review Training Materials
• Discuss the Goals of the Day of Action
• Dive into SLPS’s Legislative Priorities
• Learn tips for Speaking with Legislators
• Go over Day-of Logistics
• Conclude with next steps to ensure readiness

These sessions are designed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools needed to confidently advocate for our students and the future of SLPS.

For more information on how to participate or to get involved in the upcoming training, please reach out to the PAC via email parentactioncouncil@gmail.com.

To keep up with PAC meetings and activities, follow us on our Google page.

Mark your calendars! The first annual Saint Louis Public Schools Districtwide Spelling Bee is just around the corner. Join us as the top spellers from each school compete for the district title.

Event Details:

• Date: January 8, 2025
• Time: 6:00 PM
• Location: Central Visual and Performing Arts High School

This exciting event highlights the hard work and talent of our students as they showcase their spelling skills. Family, friends, and the SLPS community are encouraged to attend and cheer on our participants.

Please RSVP for the SLPS District Spelling Bee. Scan the QR code above or click the link below.

We look forward to seeing you there!

The results of this year’s District STEM Fair have been announced, showcasing the impressive talents of students from Preschool through 12th grade. The event highlighted the creativity, innovation, and passion for STEM that defines our schools.

Winners from each school and division will now be entered into the 2025 Academy of Science - St. Louis K-12 Regional Science Fair. You can view the winners by clicking the link below.

Upcoming Dates for Regional Fair

• Online Project Judging and Special Awards: April 15th - April 25th
• Ribbon Placement and Special Award Announcements: Wednesday, May 6th, at noon
• Results Released: www.sciencefairstl.org

We wish all our students the best of luck as they prepare for the next stage of competition!

With competing events throughout the city, the Missouri History Museum was buzzing with excitement as nearly 2,000 attendees gathered for the second annual Literacy for the Lou event. This incredible celebration of literacy and the joy of reading brought together families, students, and the community for an unforgettable day filled with valuable resources, amazing books, delicious food, and lasting memories.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and contributed to making this event a success. A special thank you goes to our guest authors — Eric Litwin, Malcolm Mitchell, and Tom Phillips — who captivated the audience with their inspiring messages and storytelling. Their passion for literacy and education left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.

We also want to express our gratitude to the food truck vendors, the haircut and glam squad, and the many volunteers who brought their energy and enthusiasm to the event. Finally, thank you to the dedicated Saint Louis Public Schools staff who worked tirelessly to make Literacy for the Lou a memorable experience for all.

Together, we celebrated the power of literacy and the role it plays in shaping bright futures. Thank you for being part of this special day. We look forward to continuing this journey together and creating even more opportunities to share the joy of reading with our community!

Want to show your support for our amazing student athletes? Come cheer them on at an upcoming game.

SLPS offers a variety of exciting sporting events throughout the year, and we encourage all parents and families to join in the fun.

Here's how to get your tickets:

• Visit the SLPS Athletics website: You can find schedules, team information, and ticket links on the official SLPS Athletics website: https://www.slps.org/phltickets

At SLPS, we're dedicated to developing well-rounded student prepared for success in life beyond the classroom. Our Portrait of a Graduate guides our approach, focusing on essential qualities like critical thinking, effective communication, cultural awareness, and collaboration. We empower our students to be change agents, ready to make a positive impact on their communities and the world.