SSD Ladue Schools Spring is Here!
May 2024 Newsletter
Celebrating Our Exceptional Special Education Teachers
As we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week, it's imperative to extend our deepest gratitude to the dedicated special education teachers across the Ladue School District. Their unwavering commitment to the success of their students, the support they offer to families, and their contributions to the district are truly remarkable.
Every day, these educators exemplify patience, compassion, and expertise as they navigate the unique challenges and triumphs within special education. They go above and beyond, not only to ensure academic growth but also to foster a sense of belonging and inclusion for every student.
Among these exceptional educators, we are thrilled to spotlight two remarkable individuals who have been honored with the prestigious Keys to the Classroom award this year. This award recognizes the profound impact they've had on the lives of their students, colleagues, and the entire community.
Brittany Meier: Leading with Heart and Inclusivity
👭Brittany Meier: Leading with Heart and Inclusivity👬
Brittany Meier, a beacon of inclusivity and compassion, serves as a special education teacher at Conway Elementary School. Her dedication extends far beyond the classroom, as noted by Johnicka Turner, Ladue Special Education Coordinator: "Brittany Meier's exceptional leadership as a Special Olympics coach, inclusion committee member, and founder of our Best Buddies program exemplifies her commitment to inclusivity and social development. Her impact transcends academics, fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment."
Brittany's recognition reflects not only her individual achievements but also the collective spirit of special education teachers in our district. Her passion for creating a nurturing environment where every student can thrive resonates deeply with our shared mission.
Maureen Rocco: Igniting Potential in Every Child
🔥Maureen Rocco: Igniting Potential in Every Child🔥
Maureen Rocco, a cornerstone of support and empowerment, shines as a special education teacher at Ladue Horton Watkins High School. Jim Sievers, Ladue Special Education Coordinator, highlights Maureen's exceptional dedication: "Maureen consistently goes above and beyond, providing personalized strategies and interventions to meet the unique needs of every student. Her ability to see the potential in each child and help them shine is a testament to her unwavering commitment."
Maureen's recognition serves as a testament to the dedication and expertise of all special education teachers in our district. Her relentless pursuit of excellence and belief in the potential of every student exemplify the values we hold dear.
As we applaud Brittany Meier and Maureen Rocco for their outstanding contributions, let us also take this moment to honor and appreciate every special education teacher in the Ladue School District. Your passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to student success inspire us all. Thank you for everything you do.
Special Education Foundation (SEF's) first annual Starfish Awards!
⭐Special Education Foundation (SEF's) first annual Starfish Awards!⭐
Join the Special Education Foundation's first annual Starfish Awards as we recognize those who have made a significant impact in the lives of students and families supported by the Special School District. Celebrate an evening of excitement at CITYPARK Stadium, home of the St. Louis CITY SC. Together we'll honor special individuals who have made a significant impact through their seemingly small, yet profoundly meaningful actions. Visit www.starfishawards.org to register and see the award recipients.
Special Education Foundation (SEF's) first annual Starfish Awards!
Celebrate an evening of excitement at SEF's first annual Starfish Awards!
- Date: June 13, 2024
- Location: CITYPARK Stadium, home of the St. Louis CITY SC
- 2100 Market St, St. Louis, MO 63103
- Time: 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Together we'll honor special individuals who have made a significant impact through their seemingly small, yet profoundly meaningful actions.
Register here to attend. The deadline to purchase tickets is May 31, 2024.
Thursday, Jun 13, 2024, 06:00 PM
CITYPARK, Market Street, St. Louis, MO, USA
SPECIAL OLYMPICS TOURNAMENT DATES and SITES 2023-2024
🏀SPECIAL OLYMPICS TOURNAMENT DATES and SITES 2023-2024🥎
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.
Summer Camps
⛺Summer Camps⛺
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
St. Louis County Library
🌏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!
Recreation Council of Greater St. Louis
⛳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:
Get Out and About - See What St. Louis has to Offer!
Get Out and About - See What St. Louis has to Offer!🏰
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.
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/
DREAM BIG
🥨Satellite Food Pantry🍿
Family Resource Hub is open most Tuesdays and Fridays of the month (closed for Spring Break). The Hub offers a satellite food pantry to aide families with immediate food needs. FACE staff will also support families with questions about community resources and provide internet access to aid the completion of applications for various services. Please contact FACE to set an appointment.
Miriam Summer Camp Taking Registrations
⛺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
⛺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.
SSD Parents Advisory Council (PAC) - End of Year PARTY
🎈SSD Parents Advisory Council (PAC) - End of Year PARTY🎈
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
SSD Parents Advisory Council (PAC) - End of Year PARTY
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
Wednesday, May 8, 2024, 07:00 PM
Special School District, Clayton Road, St. Louis, MO, USA
Special Education Foundation - Classroom Innovation Grant program
👨🏻🏫Special Education Foundation - Classroom Innovation Grant program👩🏻🏫
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.
Dan McLaughlin Charity Golf Tournament and Auction
⛳Dan McLaughlin Charity Golf Tournament and Auction
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!