WE WANT TO GIVE YOU THE CHANCE EVERY MONTH to give a shout out to any SSD staff who is making a difference in your child's life. Think about a teacher, paraprofessional or SSD administrator who is doing something wonderful, tell us their name and any compliment you'd like to share.

Click here to SHOUT THEM OUT!

In this edition of our newsletter, we are proud to shine a spotlight on one of our exceptional support staff who goes above and beyond what is asked of her.

This month, we are featuring Mrs. Robin Gorden from the Sappington Elementary School Support Staff.

Meet Robin Gorden:

Robin has been an invaluable asset to our team since she joined the Sappington Elementary School family as a paraprofessional. She completes extra tasks without complaining and with kindness.

Key Contributions:

Exceptional Performance: Robin is able to deal with behaviors with grace and humility, and she is able to stay calm and collected with students while being direct with them.

Team Player: Robin also has a good sense of humor.

Innovative Thinking: Robin works hard to come up with new and innovative ways of problem-solving to meet the needs of all students and staff.

Congratulations, Robin!

Please join us in congratulating Mrs. Robin Gorden for her outstanding contributions and unwavering commitment to excellence. We are incredibly fortunate to have her as part of our team, and we look forward to watching the continuing success of Mrs. Gorden.

By: Shannon Jeralds, SPED Coordinator

Lindbergh High School's Equity in Action (EIA) organization will be hosting their third annual Equity in Education Night on April 8th in the LHS Auditorium. This year, they will be focusing on post-secondary plans, with representatives from Special School District and various post-secondary organizations in attendance to answer questions about programs for structured support. Please refer to the flyer, and if you have any questions, reach out to 24adamspree@lindberghschools.ws.

We are excited to congratulate South County Tech School Lindbergh student Shey Delahunt who has just been awarded a college scholarship from the Bonhomme Lion's Club.

Shey stands out especially because of his consistent involvement and leadership in various school activities. He has excelled in organizations like SkillsUSA, where he placed third in the state competition, and Lindbergh’s Youth and Government Club, where he earned recognition as the Outstanding Statesperson Award. Shey's commitment extends beyond academics, as demonstrated by his participation in extracurriculars like Clapping Club and serving as a Student Judge for the St. Louis County Board of Elections. He has maintained a high GPA of 3.86 and is enrolled in demanding AP classes, all while prioritizing community service and school engagement. At South Tech, Shey created signage for events like the Special Education Foundation's golf tournament and designed banners for Turn the Page STL to promote literacy initiatives. His graphic design instructor, Francine Davis, notes, “He excels not only academically but also in his willingness to take on various projects within the school and help other teachers, showcasing his strong work ethic and leadership skills.” Shey believes these experiences are crucial for his personal growth and future success. His proactive attitude and exemplary achievements made him an ideal candidate for a Bonhomme scholarship. Shey plans to attend Michigan State University to pursue degrees in urban and regional planning and public policy and administration.

Congratulations, Shey!

Special Olympics Update: Here is a list of scheduled dates for upcoming spring events. Please see the attached links below to see which schools are scheduled to attend which events. We encourage you to come out and support your athletes and staff😊

For a summary of events HERE is our Tournament Calendar for the 2023-2024 school year.

• Special Olympics Basketball Tournaments

• Special Olympics Unified Bocce Tournaments

• Special Olympics Corn Hole Tournament

• Special Olympics Softball Tournament

• Special Olympics Track and Field Meets

What are your plans for the Summer?

Are you looking for Summer Camps for your child?

Below are links to summer camps offered for students with disabilities and toddlers to teens.

Summer camps for students with disabilities

Summer camps for toddlers to teens

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!

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

• Online Summer Program Listing

Summer 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!

Join FACE on April 11th 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!

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.

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.

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/

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

April 2, 6 PM - Join FACE for a live webinar: 10 Steps to Self Advocacy. This workshop provides an easy-to-use format that will guide families in using strategies to build positive interactions and collaborative teams. Register today!

Does your student have a new Autism diagnosis or are you interested in learning more about Autism and how to best support student learning in the home environment? Join FACE on April 5th at 6pm as one of SSD’s own Autism Effective Practice Specialists gives practical advice and information. To learn more and to register for this event click here.

FACE along with SSD’s Behavior Analysts are hosting a workshop about toilet training on April 10th at 6:30. You can learn strategies to break down toilet training skills and gather resources to help your student’s success. To learn more and to register for this event, click here.

FACE is hosting a Lunch and Learn with the St. Louis Arc's NEXT program on Wednesday, April 24th, at 11:30 AM. St. Louis Arc's Next transition program provides focused, impactful supports for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities as they prepare for their future. Next provides various programs which support individuals navigate what is next in their lives. The support offered in Next is centered on what is needed by the individual. Through skill building, goal development, and social activities, young adults are able to identify and work toward their goals. From an extra nudge in the right direction to classes that teach living skills, we will help you identify what's Next. Lunch and Learns are held virtually through YouTube Live. To access the video, please visit the SSD YouTube channel.

Miriam Summer Camp Taking Registrations

Registration is open for the 2024 Miriam School and Learning Center's academic and therapeutic summer camps! Individualized instruction, research-based interventions, and certified/licensed professionals will ensure your child builds confidence and skills in reading, writing, speech, or social/emotional development

Learn More about SEF's Kid-to-Camp Program

SEF’s Kid-to-Camp program provides financial assistance to families of children served by Special School District so they can attend camps. Funds are awarded based on financial need and student benefit. Learn more about SEF's camp options, including day and overnight camps for winter, spring, and summer breaks. Applications are accepted year-round. Apply early - some camps have limited open spots.

Greetings, PAC Families, Summer is around the corner!

· Visit the St. Louis Recreation Council website and check out spring break and summer activities.

· Now is the time to sign up for summer camps. Check out our SSD PAC YouTube channel and watch the January meeting recording that was all about camps and funding.

· While you’re there, check out our recent Valentine’s Day meeting on Alternatives to Guardianship.

There will be no March SSD PAC meeting. Please join us for our April 10 Zoom meeting, and mark your calendars for May 8 - our end of year party at SSD Central Office!

Best,

Rebecca Flieg

President, SSD Parents Advisory Council

The Special Education Foundation helps support SSD teachers to implement their creative project ideas with our Classroom Innovation Grant program. We are excited to announce that we will be funding $65,000 for 89 teacher projects for the 2024-2025 school year. See the list of winners here.

Join SEF for Golf and Giving this October! The 22nd Annual Dan McLaughlin Charity Golf Tournament and Auction is back and better than ever! Set to return at the prestigious Norwood Hills Country Club on October 14th, 2024, this event promises a day filled with excitement, camaraderie, and the joy of giving back—all in support of the Special Education Foundation's mission to support students with disabilities in St. Louis County. Sponsorship and golf registration are now open as well as opportunities to volunteer. Come be a part of this great cause!

Lindbergh Schools Green Light Plan

SSD Superintendent Updates

Academic & Related Services Toolkit for Educators

Distance Learning Resources for Families

PEDA Parent/Family workshop

Your Voice Counts!

Lindbergh Newsletter Feedback

Shannon Jeralds

Special Education Coordinator - Truman Middle, Crestwood Elementary, Long Elementary & Sappington Elementary

sljeralds@ssdmo.org

314-989-8680

Special Education Coordinator - Sperreng Middle, Concord Elementary, Dressel Elementary & Kennerly Elementary

fmrose@ssdmo.org

314-989-8202

Amanda Smith

Special Education Coordinator - Lindbergh High School

amsmith@ssdmo.org

314-989-8381

Email: jmdoyle@ssdmo.org
Website: ssdmo.org
Phone: 314-989-8463