Academic Achiever: Family/Staff

Dear Staff and Families,

As we step into the month of November, I want to take a moment to express my gratitude for the resilience and dedication that each of you has shown throughout this school year. November is a time for reflection, gratitude, and coming together as a community, and I am continually inspired by the commitment of our students, families, and staff.

This month, we celebrate National Education Month, a perfect opportunity to recognize the hard work and passion that our educators bring to their classrooms every day. Their unwavering commitment to nurturing the minds and hearts of our students is the foundation of our school community. Let us take the time to appreciate the educators who inspire, challenge, and encourage our children to reach their fullest potential.

November also brings Thanksgiving, a time to appreciate the blessings in our lives. I encourage everyone to take this opportunity to reflect on what we are thankful for, whether it be our supportive families, dedicated staff, or the community that surrounds us. We are fortunate to have a network of caring parents, guardians, community members and partners who actively participate in our schools and contribute to our students' success.

As we approach the holiday season, let us also remember those in our community who may need our support. This month, we will be coordinating several initiatives to give back, including a food drive. I urge each of you to get involved, as these efforts not only help those in need but also strengthen our bonds as a community.

In addition to our community outreach, we will continue to focus on academic excellence and social-emotional well-being. Our educators are diligently working on strategies to support all students, ensuring that they not only excel academically but also grow as compassionate individuals. Please encourage your children to share their thoughts and experiences with you, as communication is key to their success.

Finally, I want to remind our high school families about Saturday School. Saturday School is an opportunity for students to get additional support on assignments. For additional information, please reach out to your child’s principal. Your child’s participation is essential in fostering a strong partnership between home and school and making sure they receive the support needed to earn credits for graduation.

Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our school community. Together, we can create an environment where every student thrives. Wishing you all a warm and joyful November filled with gratitude, connection, and community spirit.

Thank you for entrusting your children to Saint Louis Public Schools.

Sincerely,

Dr. Millicent Borishade

Interim Superintendent

Saint Louis Public Schools

November 5th - Election Day (All school and district offices closed)

November 7th - Parent University: Student Well-Being and SEL Support for Students and Families

November 11th - Veteran's Day Holiday (All school and district offices closed)

November 12th - Board Meeting @ Roosevelt High School

November 16th - SLPS Fall 2024 Career Fair

November 18th-22nd - American Education Week

November 21st - National Parent Involvement Day

November 25th-29th - Thanksgiving Week (All school and district offices closed)

It's time to start planning for the 2025-2026 school year. Saint Louis Public Schools (SLPS) is here to help you make the best decision for your student's educational journey. Whether you're applying for magnet schools, scheduling school walk-throughs, arranging gifted testing, or just making sure you have everything you need to ensure your student is present for the first day of the 2025-2026 school year, we can help.

Here's what you need to know:

• Transition Grade Families (Kindergarten, 5th & 8th Grade): Start researching your child's next school now. Explore our website at www.slps.org to learn more about your options.

• Gifted Education: The Department of Gifted Education at SLPS provides gifted testing for any child (3.6 years old to age 18) that resides in St. Louis City. We provide families with guidance and support to obtain gifted instruction for eligible St. Louis Public School students. To learn more visit https://www.slps.org/gifted or call 314-345-4548 to schedule a gifted testing appointment.

• New and Returning Families: All new and returning families should be registered in our Parent Portal. This is where you will provide or update your family's contact information, see grades and attendance, and access important school announcements. The Parent Portal can be accessed by click the link here.

• Magnet School Opportunities: For families interested in magnet schools, visit our website to apply: https://www.slps.org/magnet. Applications for the 2025-2026 school year are being accepted now.

• Pre-K Families (3 & 4-year-olds): We encourage you to schedule walkthroughs by contacting any of our elementary schools and our two Early Childhood Centers:

• Wilkinson ECC
• Stix Early Childhood Center
  

Need Assistance?

The SLPS Office of Student Recruitment and Placement is here to help. Contact us Monday through Friday at 314-633-5200 with any questions.

We look forward to seeing your family in the 2025-2026 school year.

We are thrilled to highlight Vashon High School senior Kiera Burns as our first "Portrait of a Graduate" student, showcasing her academic excellence, community engagement, and commitment to personal growth, qualities we strive to cultivate in all SLPS students.

A Three-Sport Scholar Athlete and More:

Kiera is a dedicated student athlete, boasting a 3.75 GPA while participating in volleyball, soccer, and basketball. Her passion for basketball shines through, and she plans to continue her athletic career at the collegiate level. But Kiera's involvement doesn't stop there. She's a member of the National Honor Society, the Vashon media team, and the student council, demonstrating her commitment to academics and her school community.

Giving Back to the Community:

Kiera's dedication extends beyond the walls of Vashon High School. She serves as an assistant teacher at St. Louis Catholic Academy, tutoring elementary students, and volunteers at Transformation Christian Church, helping those in need. Her work with the Special Needs Soccer Association (SPENSA) further highlights her compassionate nature and willingness to give back.

Future Aspirations:

With graduation approaching in May 2025, Kiera is considering DePauw University, Central Methodist University, and Mission University to pursue her dream of becoming a psychiatrist. Her interest in understanding trauma stems from a young age, leading her to take an advanced placement psychology course in her junior year.

More Than Just Academics:

Kiera's love for poetry, reading, and writing adds another dimension to her personality. She aspires to be a published author one day, showcasing her creative talents.

Overcoming Challenges and Finding Confidence:

Kiera's journey hasn't been without its challenges. She credits her SLPS mentor, Ms. Shelonda Williams, for encouraging her to step outside her comfort zone and join the JAG program (Jobs for America's Graduates). With Ms. Williams' guidance and the unwavering support of her parents, Kiera overcame self-doubt and embraced her potential.

Kiera is a shining example of what it means to be a Portrait of a Graduate. She demonstrates

academic excellence, civic engagement, and a strong sense of self. Her dedication to academics, athletics, community service, and personal growth makes her an exceptional role model for all students. As she says, "Always shine bright so that you may be an inspiration to someone else." Kiera, you are certainly an inspiration to us all. We are incredibly proud of her accomplishments and excited to see what she achieves in the future.

SAVE THE DATE

Get ready to celebrate the power of reading and writing at the Literacy for the Lou kickoff event for the 2024-2025 school year.

🗓️ Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024

⏰ Time: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

📍 Location: Missouri History Museum

Join us for a fun-filled day of activities, resources, and community engagement as we champion literacy in St. Louis. More information to come.

Saint Louis Public Schools offers incredible opportunities for students to get a head start on their college education through our Early College Academy (ECA) programs. Here are two that are making a real difference:

Early College Academy @ Harris-Stowe State University: Empowering SLPS Students for College Success

The Early College Academy @ Harris-Stowe State University is making a real difference in the lives of SLPS students. This program provides targeted support to help students thrive in a college environment.

Eligibility Requirements:

• GPA: 2.5 or higher
• Attendance: At least 80%
• Academic Standing: On track to graduate with the necessary credits
• Interview and Recommendation: Successful completion of a panel interview and submission of a letter of recommendation
• Commitment: A strong commitment to the ECA program's philosophy and concept

ECA @ Harris-Stowe Highlights:

• 100% College Enrollment: All ECA students are enrolled in college credit-bearing courses.
• Scholarship Opportunities: Access to multiple scholarship opportunities.
• On-Time Graduation: Support to help students graduate from college on time or even early.
• Paid Mentorship: Former ECA students can return as paid mentors.

Take the Next Step:

Interested students should connect with their school counselor to discuss eligibility and learn more about these incredible opportunities.

Early College Academy @ STLCC: Earn Your Associate's Degree While in High School

Imagine graduating high school with an associate's degree. That's the opportunity awaiting eligible SLPS sophomores through the Early College Academy (ECA) at St. Louis Community College (STLCC).

Early College Academy @ STLCC empowers our students to take charge of their future. This program provides a smooth pathway to college success, combining rigorous academics with individualized support. Students gain confidence, resilience, and the skills to excel in higher education and make a real impact on the world.

How to Qualify:

• GPA: Maintain a 3.25 unweighted GPA
• Attendance: Achieve a 90% attendance rate
• Accuplacer Scores: Achieve minimum scores on the Accuplacer test.

ECA Success Highlights:

• The 2024 ECA cohort earned over 1400 college credit hours.
• 19 Associate's degrees earned.
• $2,938,828 in scholarship dollars earned.
• Graduates pursuing diverse majors at prestigious institutions nationwide.

Take the Next Step:

Interested students should connect with their school counselor to discuss eligibility and learn more about these incredible opportunities.

At Saint Louis Public Schools, we are committed to ensuring every student develops the strong reading skills necessary for success in school and beyond. A key part of this commitment is our Reading Success Plan (RSP).

What is a Reading Success Plan?

The RSP is a personalized plan developed for students who need additional support in reading. It outlines specific strategies and interventions to help students improve their reading skills and reach their full potential.

How does it work?

• Identification: Students are identified for an RSP through a combination of assessments, teacher observations, and parent input.
• Plan Development: Teachers and parents work together to create a customized plan with specific goals, strategies, and progress monitoring.
• Targeted Instruction: Students receive targeted instruction and support in areas such as phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.
• Progress Monitoring: Student progress is regularly monitored, and the plan is adjusted as needed to ensure continued growth.

Parent Involvement is Key:

We encourage parents to actively participate in their child's RSP. Here's how you can get involved:

• Communicate with your child's teacher: Stay informed about your child's progress and discuss any concerns you may have.
• Support reading at home: Read with your child, provide access to books, and engage in activities that promote literacy.
• Attend meetings and conferences: Participate in discussions about your child's RSP and provide input on their learning goals.

Working Together for Reading Success:

By working together, we can help all students become confident and successful readers. If you have any questions about Reading Success Plans, please contact your child's teacher or school administrator.

Why do Nance Elementary students think it's so important to be in class every day? What do they love most about their school? Find out in this awesome episode of SLPS Student Voices.

We're proud that more and more SLPS students are choosing to be in class every day – our district-wide average daily attendance has jumped from 75.7% at the end of last school year to 88.1%

Students at the Academy of Entrepreneurship Studies Middle School (AESM) at L’Overture, Long Middle School, Pamoja Preparatory Academy, and Yeatman-Liddell Middle School are diving headfirst into the world of cutting-edge technology with their Verizon Innovative Learning Labs.

These state-of-the-art labs, made possible through the support of Verizon, Heart of America, and the J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute at Arizona State University, are packed with incredible resources:

• Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR): Imagine exploring ancient civilizations without leaving the classroom.
• 3D Printing: Students can design and create their own inventions, bringing their ideas to life in a tangible way.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI): From coding intelligent robots to analyzing data, students will gain valuable skills for the future.

This initiative is part of Verizon's commitment to bridging the digital divide and ensuring that all students have access to the technology and skills they need to thrive in the digital economy.

What does this mean for our students?

• Interactive and engaging learning: Say goodbye to boring lectures and hello to hands-on experiences.
• Project-based learning: Students will tackle real-world challenges and develop critical thinking skills.
• Teacher training: Educators will receive specialized training to effectively integrate these technologies into their classrooms.

The goal? To empower SLPS students to become not just consumers of technology, but creators and innovators. As the digital world continues to evolve, these labs will ensure that our students are prepared to lead the way.

We are committed to providing our students with the tools and resources they need to succeed in the 21st century. Learning Labs are a key part of this commitment.

HUGE congratulations to our talented bands from Central VPA High School and Carr Lane Middle School for showcasing their skills at the Bands of America event at The Dome at America's Center!

Our students had the honor of performing as exhibition bands, representing Saint Louis Public Schools on a grand stage alongside bands from across the nation. We’re beyond proud of their hard work, dedication, and outstanding performance.

We are beyond proud of their hard work, dedication, and outstanding performance. They truly exemplified what it means to be an SLPS student.

Check out Carr Lane's amazing performance in the video below.

Get ready to explore the exciting world of STEM. The annual SLPS STEM Fair is back, offering students a chance to showcase their creativity, problem-solving skills, and passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Mark your calendars:

• December 2024: School-based STEM Fairs take place.
• March 2025: Top projects advance to The Academy of Science - St. Louis Science Fair.

How to participate:

• School Projects: Your child's teacher will share information about school-based projects, deadlines, and resources.
• Independent Exploration: Students can also submit individual projects completed at home (one per student).

Why participate in the STEM Fair?

• Develop critical thinking skills: Students learn to ask questions, conduct research, and analyze data.
• Boost creativity and innovation: The STEM Fair encourages students to think outside the box and come up with unique solutions.
• Build confidence and presentation skills: Students gain experience presenting their projects and explaining their findings.
• Spark a passion for STEM: Participating in the STEM Fair can ignite a lifelong interest in science and technology.

Stay tuned for more information from your child's teacher.

We can't wait to see the amazing projects our students create.

Get ready for a FREE day of technology fun for the whole family. Join Saint Louis Public Schools for the Fall Technology Experience on Saturday, November 16th, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at 801 N. 11th Street.

Explore exciting activities like:

• Podcast creation: Learn the ins and outs of producing your own podcasts.
• Robot coding: Compete in friendly coding challenges and see your robots come to life.
• Virtual field trips: Explore amazing places without leaving the building.
• 3D modeling with zSpace: Discover the world of 3D design and printing.
• Resume building: Get expert tips on crafting a winning resume.
• Interactive math games: Boost your math skills with the interactive Lu.
• And much, much more.

Saint Louis Public Schools is pleased to announce the appointment of Leviticus (Levi) McNeal as the new Assistant Director of Transportation. Mr. McNeal brings over 10 years of experience in transportation and operations management across various sectors, including school bus, truck, and rail freight in both the U.S. and Canada.

Upcoming Priorities:

• Vendor Compliance Review: Mr. McNeal will conduct a comprehensive review of all vendor compliance contracts and regulations and produce a public report.
• Transportation RFP Update: He will also lead the charge for the 2025-2026 Transportation Request for Proposal (RFP) that will be available on Nov. 15, 2024. An update on the Request for Proposal (RFP) for transportation partners for the 2025-2026 school year will also be shared soon.

We are excited to have Mr. McNeal on board and look forward to his leadership in enhancing our transportation services.

In today's world, being prepared for the unthinkable is unfortunately a necessity. That's why Saint Louis Public Schools is taking proactive steps to equip our staff with Active Violence Emergency Response Training (AVERT).

What is AVERT?

AVERT training goes beyond traditional lockdown drills to provide comprehensive preparation for active shooter or violent incidents. It empowers participants to:

• Quickly Identify Threats: Develop situational awareness to recognize potential danger.
• Respond Effectively: Learn de-escalation techniques and strategies for safe escape or defense.
• Decrease Injuries: Gain basic life-saving skills like applying pressure to wounds, wound packing, and using tourniquets.
• Save Lives: Be prepared to take action and potentially prevent further harm.
• Reduce Fear and Panic: Develop the confidence to respond calmly in an emergency.

Positive Feedback from Lyon Academy:

AVERT training has been met with enthusiasm by SLPS staff. Dr. Iskali from Lyon Academy shared this feedback:

"The feedback from our teachers has been overwhelmingly positive. They expressed that they felt empowered and equipped with valuable skills to respond to emergency situations... This comprehensive approach has enhanced their confidence in handling potential emergencies. We truly appreciate your efforts in preparing Lyon staff to better protect themselves and their students."

AVERT: Building a Safer Community

Ms. Carron Johnson, of Local 420, highlights the importance of AVERT in today's world:

"In a world where unpredictability, danger, and trauma appear to be on the rise... AVERT training helps ensure that we are better equipped to handle emergencies. Our priority is to protect/equip ourselves and our coworkers by helping them to be prepared for emergencies, contributing to overall community safety."

SLPS is committed to providing a safe and secure learning environment for all. AVERT training is just one of the ways we are working to protect our students and staff.

Safety is a top priority in Saint Louis Public Schools, and we are committed to providing a secure learning environment for all students and staff. Throughout October, we conducted comprehensive safety drills, including fire and earthquake drills, across all district buildings to ensure preparedness in the event of an emergency.

Here's what we've been working on:

• Updated Emergency Operations Plans (EOPs): Every school has reviewed and updated their EOP to ensure it reflects the most current safety procedures and best practices.
• Thorough Site Assessments: Each school completed a detailed site assessment to identify areas of strength and areas needing improvement in terms of safety and security.
• Secure and Well-Lit Public Areas: We're taking steps to ensure that parking lots and other public areas are well-lit and secure for everyone.

We want to assure our students, staff, and families that we are dedicated to maintaining safe and secure learning environments. These drills and safety enhancements are just some of the ways we are proactively working to protect our school community.

Did you know that November 21st is National Parent Involvement Day? It's a day to celebrate the vital role parents and caregivers play in their children's education. At SLPS, we believe that strong family engagement is crucial for student success.

Here's how you can get involved:

• Participate in Parent University: Parent University offers a variety of workshops and courses designed to empower parents and caregivers with the knowledge and skills to support their children's learning and well-being. Topics include academic support strategies, social-emotional learning, digital literacy, and more. Classes are offered both in-person and online, on the first Thursday of every month from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. Visit the Parent University webpage or contact your school's Family and Community Engagement Specialist to learn more about upcoming Parent University offerings.
• Join your school's PTO/PTA: Connect with other parents, teachers, and staff to support school activities and initiatives.
• Become a member of the Parent Action Council: This district-wide PTO provides a voice for parents and families in district decisions. Learn more and get involved by contacting the SLPS Office of Family and Community Engagement at 314-345-4433.
• Volunteer at your school(s): There are many ways for individuals to get involved with a specific school and throughout the district. Individuals can help in the school by volunteering in the office, in the classroom, in the cafeteria, or on the playground. Volunteers can also assist on field trips or in group tasks, such as school beautification projects and school gardens. Before becoming a volunteer, all individuals working with students must fill out volunteer applications, including background information, to ensure the safety of our students.

To learn more about volunteering at SLPS visit our Volunteer Services page.

Why is parent involvement so important?

• Improved academic performance: Students with involved parents tend to have better grades, attendance, and test scores.
• Increased confidence and self-esteem: Children feel supported and valued when their parents are actively engaged in their education.
• Stronger school-community relationships: Parent involvement helps build a sense of community and shared responsibility for student success.

Even small actions can make a big difference.

• Talk to your child about their school day.
• Attend school events and activities.
• Volunteer in the classroom or library.
• Communicate with your child's teachers.

Together, we can create a thriving learning environment for every child.

In this heartwarming video, students from across the Saint Louis Public School District share what makes their parents and caregivers so special. Get ready to hear stories of love, support, and inspiration as these amazing kids tell us why their parents are their heroes.

Join us November 7th from 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM at SLPS Central Office (801 N. 11th St. St. Louis, MO 63101) for the fourth class of our Parent University workshop series. This month will focus on student wellbeing and social emotional learning support for students and families.

This class will explore effective strategies for enhancing communication between home and school, ensuring that families feel connected and supported.

What You'll Gain:

• Tips for improving communication with teachers and staff
• Insights into the challenges students and families in transition face
• Resources to help support your child's educational journey

  
  

When:

• Thursday, November 7th
• 5:30 PM-7:00 PM
• Dinner at 5:00 PM

  
  

Where:

• SLPS Central Office, 801 N. 11th St., St. Louis, MO 63101, Room 108

  
  

More Information:

• Interpreters in the district top languages will be available.
• Childcare provided by Early Childhood Education
• Parent University workshops aim to empower parents with practical skills, knowledge, and resources to actively participate in their children's education, and help create effective partnerships that support student and school improvement.

Join Saint Louis Public Schools in celebrating American Education Week, November 18-22, 2024. This nationwide observance is a time to recognize the importance of public education and honor the individuals who are making a difference in our schools.

This year's theme is "Great Public Schools: A Basic Right and Our Responsibility".

Each day of American Education Week has a special focus:

• Monday, November 18th: Kickoff Day - Celebrate the power of public education and its positive impact on our community.
• Tuesday, November 19th: Parents Day - Recognize the vital role parents play in their children's education.
• Wednesday, November 20th: Education Support Professionals Day - Thank the dedicated support staff who keep our schools running smoothly.
• Thursday, November 21st: Educator for Excellence Day - Show appreciation for our amazing teachers and their commitment to student success.
• Friday, November 22nd: Substitute Educators Day - Acknowledge the important contributions of substitute teachers who ensure learning continues uninterrupted.

How can you participate?

• Visit your child's school: Attend school events, volunteer in the classroom, or simply express your gratitude to teachers and staff.
• Share your support on social media: Use the hashtag #AmericanEducationWeek to highlight the positive impact of public education.
• Advocate for public schools: Contact your elected officials to express your support for increased funding and resources for our schools.

Let's come together to celebrate public education and ensure that every child in Saint Louis has access to a quality education.

Celebrating Our Educators and Advocating for Our Students

SLPS would like to take this opportunity to celebrate the incredible work of the American Federation of Teachers St. Louis Local 420 for our students and our city. We are deeply appreciative of the dedication and hard work of our teachers, paraprofessionals, and school staff who work tirelessly to support our students. We also value the strong partnership with AFT Local 420, which has been instrumental in advocating for our educators and creating a positive learning environment.

Recent Achievements: Investing in Our Future

SLPS has made significant strides in recent years, thanks to the collaborative efforts of our educators, staff, and AFT Local 420. These achievements include:

• A Historic Contract for Educators: The recently negotiated contract with AFT Local 420 includes a 17% pay increase for teachers over three years. This investment in our educators is an investment in our students' future.
• Enhanced Resources for Students: We are committed to providing our students with the resources they need to succeed. This includes ongoing efforts to increase staffing, reduce class sizes, and expand mental health services.

The collaboration between SLPS and AFT Local 420 exemplifies the power of partnership in public education. By working together, we can create schools where educators feel valued and supported, and where students have the resources they need to thrive.

We are proud to stand alongside AFT Local 420 in our shared commitment to public education. During American Education Week and beyond, let us continue to work together to build a brighter future for all students in St. Louis.

Learn more about the incredible work of AFT Local 420 at

https://local420.mo.aft.org/.

Recognizing Dedication and Collaboration in Saint Louis Public Schools

Saint Louis Public Schools (SLPS) extends its sincere gratitude to the St. Louis Association of School Administrators, Local 44, for their unwavering commitment to our students, staff, and community. We recognize the vital role that our school administrators play in fostering a positive and productive learning environment where every student can thrive.

Leadership that Inspires

The members of Local 44 – our principals, assistant principals, and central office administrators – demonstrate exceptional leadership every day. They are dedicated to:

• Creating a Culture of Learning: Fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where students feel safe, supported, and challenged to reach their full potential.
• Supporting our Educators: Providing guidance, mentorship, and professional development opportunities for teachers and staff.
• Building Strong Partnerships: Collaborating with families, community organizations, and district leaders to enhance the educational experience for all students.

Collaboration for Continuous Improvement

SLPS values the collaborative relationship we have with Local 44. We appreciate their active involvement in:

• Developing and Implementing District Initiatives: Providing valuable input and feedback on key initiatives that shape the future of our schools.
• Advocating for Resources: Working with the district to secure the necessary resources to support student success.
• Promoting Positive Change: Continuously seeking ways to improve our schools and enhance the learning environment for all.

A Shared Commitment to Excellence

SLPS is fortunate to have such a dedicated and talented group of school administrators. We appreciate their hard work, their commitment to excellence, and their unwavering belief in the potential of every student.

Thank you, Local 44, for your partnership and your leadership. We are proud to work alongside you as we strive to provide a world-class education for all students in St. Louis.

Join us for the October Parent Action Council meeting of the school year on Thursday, November 21st at 6:30 PM on Zoom.

You can get the Zoom link by emailing parentactioncouncil@gmail.com or by contacting your school FCS.

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

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 students 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.