Recreation Council of Greater St. Louis
Discover the what, why and how behind the incredible work we get to do every day for individuals with disabilities. Download our latest newsletters and area guides to learn more about the Recreation Council of Greater St. Louis and ways you can get involved with programs or events.
IT’S ARRIVED. 2024 Summer Guide can now be viewed and printed. Plus, check out these resources:
St. Louis County Library
Did you know that the St. Louis County Library offers more than just books? They offer a whole host of events at each of their locations throughout the County. Visit their events webpage today and discover what interests you!
Explore St. Louis
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.
Did you know that St. Louis County Parks and Recreation offers over 400 programs and events each year? From hiking and biking trails to ice rinks, pools and camps, they have something for everyone. Head over to their website and see what they have to offer your family.
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/
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
Looking for camp resources this summer? The Special Education Foundation's Kid-to-Camp program supports children served by SSD to attend camp during school breaks. Camp experiences extend beyond the classroom, fostering social growth, friendship, and independence. Applications for financial assistance are accepted year-round, offering invaluable opportunities for students. Visit https://sef-stl.org/what-we-do/kid-to-camp.html for more details or assistance with the application process.
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!
The Community Action Agency of St. Louis County (CAASTLC) will be available at the SSD Family Resource Hub (located inside North Tech High School) on Friday, May 3rd, from 10am-2pm to provide information and access to many of their programs, including the Low-Income Home Energy Program (LIHEAP) and Water Assistance Program (LIWAP).
Message from SSD PAC President
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
Building Block Award Winner
Congratulations to paraprofessional, Marquetta Edwards on winning the SSD Building Block Award. This award honors paras who have made a significant impact on the educational communities in which they serve. RBT, Deb Baer had this to say about her colleague:
"Whether someone needs support, advice, or a helping hand, Marquetta is always there with a smile on her face and some suggestions for improving the situation. She is adored by the students and staff alike because of her steady, genuine demeanor and willingness to provide whatever support will improve the educational experience of students. She performs every task with fidelity while providing the consistency and love our students need to thrive. It is through her leadership and example that we have created a safe an effective learning environment for our students."
Starfish Award Recipient
Dana Meinecke was recognized as the recipient for the Special Education Foundation's first annual Starfish Awards. This award honors those who have made a significant impact in the lives of students and families supported by the Special School District. Congratulations to Dana for her significant impact through her seemingly small, yet profoundly meaningful actions.
Stephanie Ringhofer
Hello! My name is Stephanie Ringhofer and this is my 23rd year of teaching and my 6th year at Kirkwood High School. Prior to coming to KHS I taught at Marquette and Affton High Schools and was a Special Education Coordinator in the Lindbergh School District. At KHS, I teach 9th and 10th grade English Co-taught and modified classes. I love my job because I enjoy challenging students and bringing a variety of learning opportunities to students. I have two sons, a junior in high school and a freshman in college. In my free time, I like to travel and watch my boys play hockey.
Sara Herrera
Hello! My name is Sara and I am a speech language pathologist at Kirkwood High School. I really enjoy my job as an SLP because I love teaching communication skills to my students and watching them use their communication skills with peers, adults, and outside of the classroom. I also enjoy collaborating with other colleagues in order to learn more about what works well for students that we support, and to learn about other effective practices. In my free time, I like to garden, play golf, and read!
Jonathan Porter
Hey y’all! My name's Jonathan Porter, and I'm a paraprofessional at Robinson Elementary. I've been working with the SSD for four years now, and I love it. I'm originally from St. Louis, and I graduated from Lane College four years ago with my undergraduate degree. When I first graduated, I wasn't exactly sure what I wanted to do, but I knew that I wanted to work with children and make a positive impact on their lives. That's what led me to the SSD, and I'm so glad I made that decision. Working with children and collaborating with my fellow teachers and paraprofessionals is so rewarding. Right now, I'm working on my Master's degree in Special Education. When I'm not busy with work or school, I love going to the movies, trying out new restaurants, watching sports, and spending time with my girlfriend, family, and friends. I'm usually hanging out at Adventure Club, and I'm also the JV head coach for the wrestling team at Kirkwood High School.
