Summer 24: Foundations

Foundations Page Three: The Class of 2024 by the numbers

Summer 24/Vol. 8

Issue 1

Page 14: Share your alumni success stories!

Board of Education

Woody Babb, President Shannon Kohler, Vice President Jeff Preisack ’83, Member Sarah Reece, Member

Michelle Padgett, Member Laura Van Zale ’83, Member Stephanie McCreary, Member

District Administration

Amy Ruzicka Superintendent of Schools (314) 256-8601

Stephen Terrill Marketing and Communications Coordinator (314) 256-8115

Michael Hawkins Assistant Superintendent (314) 256-8600 Dr. Chel’Lee Whitten Assistant Superintendent (314) 256-8658 Anna Barton Director of Instructional Effectiveness (314) 256-8601 ext. 8088 Preston Sterett, ‘05 Director of Business & Finance (314) 256-8687 Kim Arnold Director of Human Resources (314) 256-8605 VICC Transportation (314) 721-8657

Kelly Stahlhuth District Activities Director (314) 256-8664 Barbara Shetley District Registrar (314) 256-8100 Kari Wolford ‘03 Transportation Supervisor (314) 256-8601 Fadil Hamidovic Director of Technology (314) 256-8611 Dr. Monika Hasanbasic ELD Director (314) 256-8600 ext. 2304

Students during the elementary field day in May.

A BHS Senior after graduating.

Bayless Schools Early Childhood Center (314) 256-8630

Christina Ly ’99, Principal Amra Hadzic, Administrative Assistant School Hours: 8:15 a.m. - 3:20 p.m.

Office Hours: 7:45 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.

Elementary (314) 256-8620

Aaron Kohler, Principal Dr. Amanda Middendorf, Assistant Principal Amber Callahan, Assistant Principal Mirsada Becarevic, Administrative Assistant Kimberly Moreau, Administrative Assistant Christine Kohl, Administrative Assistant School Hours: 8:15 a.m. - 3:21 p.m.

Office Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Junior High (314) 256-8690 Daniel Bieser, Principal

Dr. Andrew Mertens, Assistant Principal Sanela Jugovic, Administrative Assistant Cantrece Novak, Administrative Assistant School Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 2:36 p.m.

Office Hours: 7 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

A teacher and student at the BJH Promotion Ceremony.

High School (314)256-8660 Eric Lawrence, Principal Dr. Alyssa Stock, Assistant Principal Alex Johnson, Assistant Principal/Athletic Administrator Sandra Schacht, Administrative Assistant Lauren Champion ’07, Administrative Assistant Melissa Godat, Registrar School Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 2:36 p.m.

Office Hours: 7 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

The Early Childhood’s Sliding Into Kindergarten ceremony.

Alumni Association (314) 256-8660 ext. 8617

Sally Wear ’58 Alumni Association President Four friends pose for a photo before they graduate.

Bayless is published multiple times a year to inform the public about what is occurring at the Bayless Schools - including student achievements, happenings in the classroom, involvement in the community and more. Please submit any questions, comments or letters to Stephen Terrill, Marketing and Communications Coordinator, 4950 Heege Road, St. Louis, MO, 63123, 314-256-8115 or at: sterrill@bayless.k12.mo.us Bayless School District does not discriminate in its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, socioeconomic status, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age or any other characteristic protected by law.

Inquiries related to District programs may be directed to Director of Human Resources and Title IX Coordinator Mrs. Kim Arnold at 314-256-8605, 4950 Heege Road, St. Louis, MO, 63123. The Bayless School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

From the Superintendent Dear Bayless Community, As I was reflecting upon this edition’s theme “Foundations,” I began reviewing the 1932 Oracle yearbook. The seven students who composed the Class of 1932 were the very first graduating class of Bayless High School, the foundation for the Students in front of the Old Rock School, circa 1868.

92 graduating classes to follow.

Old Rock “one room” School Chapter One of the 1932 Oracle, which is entitled Bayless Environment, eloquently describes the humble beginnings of the remarkable school district we all call home:

Magazine is distributed to alumni, parents, friends and neighbors. Its mission is to maintain ties among the District, its alumni and all of our friends and neighbors.

In this Issue: Letter from the Superintendent

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The Class of 2024 By the Numbers

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Senior Scholarships

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Bayless named a Top Work Place

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Courtney Duffy, BSD Teacher of the Year

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Fifth Grader wins writing competition

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Graduation Speeches

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Graduation Mortarboard Art

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Graduation Speeches

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Picture taken in 1868 (estimated) where the Bayless Junior High parking lot is located.

In “a then isolated section” of the county, on one of the less frequented roads, was built before the Civil War a little Rock School. It was destined to be called the Bayless School because one of the pioneers who was interested in the education of the youth gave the tract of land whereon the school was built.

It was built of rock taken from the nearby quarry by the willing hands of those who wished their children to have an education. It was a crude educational institution if judged by the standards of today, with its picket fence–the gate fastened to the fence by rusty hinges; the six small windows to which shutters were carefully attached; its rude seats, clapboard floor, crude blackboards and other unpretentious equipment. Yet from out of its doors came the boys and girls who have become the men and women valuable in the social and intellectual activities of the Bayless Community.

The little Old Rock School was the progenitor of the Bayless today; treasured friendships were formed within it–life-long associations were formulated there and memories of it dwell in the minds and hearts of many. It was torn down and its rock used in the foundation wherein this tradition has been written.

Ninety-two years later, we continue to celebrate our rich history and look ahead to the future with excitement and optimism. We remain steadfast in our commitment to providing an exceptional education to every student who walks through our doors. Together, we will continue to build upon the strong foundation that has been laid before us, ensuring that our students are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

As we bid farewell to the 148 graduates of the Class of 2024 and warmly welcome the Class of 2037, I want to express my deepest gratitude to the entire community for your continued support and partnership in shaping the future of our school district. Together, we will continue to make a positive difference in the lives of our students and build upon the legacy of excellence that has defined our school district since 1868.

In partnership,

Building a Better Bayless

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Seniors Awarded Seal of Biliteracy

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Request for Alumni Success Stories

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National Awards for Promising Practices

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Cover: BHS Senior Merim Malkic highfives students at BJH during the Graduation Walkthrough.

Amelia A. Ruzicka Superintendent of Schools

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The Class of 2024

Good Foundations: The Class of 2024 by the numbers

Nearly 150 students graduated Bayless High School this spring, marking one of the largest classes in recent history. Thank you to the many community members, alumni and more who provided scholarships for these students to pursue their next goal.

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Senior Scholarships

Alumni Scholarships

L.I.S.A. Scholarship

Lejla Ahmetovic, Ava Eckhard, Izzy Ava Eckhard, Marissa Kohler, Savannah Kohl, Marissa Kohler, and Merim Malkic Krull, Ava Willey

Patricia (Stech) Blassie Scholarship

Lillian/James Newsom Memorial Scholarship

Ferishta Hussaini

Duyen Chu

Classes of 1960 – 1969 Scholarships

Uthoff Scholarship Makyah Scarbrough

Alma Hasanovic, Eric Huynh, Sabiri Ibrahim, Amela Kunic, Sydney Lam, Zerina Mesanovic, Selma Osmanovic, Lana Pickeral, Makyah Scarbrough, Minela Topalovic, Armela Zgalj

Anna Wear Scholarship

Minela Topalovic

Ava Willey

Class of 1972 Scholarship

Champion Family Scholarship Elma Mesinovic

Eirich Brothers Scholarship Kari Gross

Alma Goggin Medical Scholarship Valerie Nwosu

Kerley Family Scholarship

Liliana Hobbs

Principal Eric Lawrence and Senior Marissa Kohler at Senior Awards Night.

Ajla Salihovic

Bayless Education Association Scholarship

Frieda Wohlschlaeger Scholarship Sally Wear Award/Scholarship Affton-Lemay Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Ava Willey

Bayless Music Boosters Scholarships Emma Jones (Vocal) Saury Dudenhoeffer (Insturmental), Marissa Kohler (Jerry Garrett)

Savannah Krull

Schmitt Scholarship

Bayless Academic Foundation Scholarship

Julian Lopez-Garcia

Izzy Kohl

Selma Osmanovic

Bayless Educational Support Team Scholarship Izzy Kohl and Cameron Kelly

Chapter EA Philanthropic Educational Organization Scholarship Izzy Kohl and Ferishta Hussaini

Southern Commercial Bank Legacy Scholarship Marissa Kohler

Bayless named a St. Louis Top Work Place Every year, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch sends anonymous surveys to employees of companies across the region to see which have the best culture and work environment. Bayless is among those named in 2024, the second consecutive year Bayless has been given the designation. The Board of Education and district leadership are committed to creating a Premier Workforce, and that work starts with having a place where staff feel supported in their professional goals and day-to-day duties.

In turn, those foundations allow staff to help students become Smart, Good and Strong.

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Teacher of the Year

Math Foundations Courtney Duffy, BSD Teacher of the Year

If you ask BES Math Specialist Courtney Duffy who her students are at Bayless Elementary, she could truthfully respond with “everyone.”

All students in the building, and to an extent teachers, fall under her purview. While a math specialist is not a traditional classroom teacher, Duffy plays an important role in building the foundation for math education in BES. Her stellar work is why she was named the 2024 Bayless Teacher of the Year. She was then named a St. Louis Regional Teacher of the Year in July, one of only ten educators in the region to be given that designation.

“As the math specialist, I am pretty much the math support (person) for all the teachers and students in the school,” Duffy said. “I do a lot of instructional coaching with teachers. I help strengthen their math instruction to better than meet the needs of all of their students.”

Duffy is involved in all things math at BES. She understands state standards, has a full grasp of elementary math concepts, tracks student data and more. During the school year, she can be found in classrooms helping co-teach or work with groups who may need extra attention in math.

“Her endless energy and enthusiasm are what makes (Duffy) great,” Director of Instructional Effectiveness Anna Barton said. “If you ask her about a problem, she will immediately have ten ideas of what she could do and how it could connect to other subjects. If you ask to see her spreadsheets, you will be blown away at the level of detail 6

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and analysis she has done.”

Behind all of Duffy’s efforts is a love for math and helping others understand it, which stems from an experience she had in college.

“Growing up, math was pretty easy for me,” Duffy said. “But when I was in college, I took a math foundations class. They really broke down all of the underlying concepts and the ‘why’ behind math. So many light bulbs went off for me, and it made so much sense.

“I didn’t know what I was doing (growing up); I was just really good at memorizing things. I made it my mission that my students really understand math in a way that I didn’t have the chance to. It’s not a random, foreign puzzle, there’s a reason why things work the way they do.”

This love stayed with her as she became a fifthgrade teacher at BES in 2016 and then Math Specialist in 2021.

Duffy also enjoys the chance to see students grow over time; something afforded to her by Bayless’ smaller size. She shared a story of a student now at Bayless Junior High who ran into her during Summer Journey. The student was quick to tell Duffy about the strides she was making in math and how much she missed having her in class.

“She really cares about people,” Barton said.

“She will inconvenience herself and go out of her way for anyone at any time if they need math support.”

Issue 2020

Congratulations to the preschoolers, fifth graders and eighth graders on your promotion ceremonies. Your next adventure awaits!

Fifth grader wins Elks Writing Contest Bayless Elementary Fifth grader Milica Mitrovic has won an award for her writing. She entered the Elks Lodge Americanism Essay Contest this spring and wrote an essay on what the Bill of Rights means to her. She was Milica, her mother and two representatives from the Affton Elks Lodge.

Milica receiving her award.

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chosen as the best submission by the Affton Elks Lodge, which moved her on to the state level. Her essay was then selected as the best by a fifth grader in the state of Missouri!

She is now in the national competition with fifth-graders nationwide. The winner of the competition will be announced at the Elks’ National Convention in July.

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Graduation Speeches

Graduation Speaker: Ade Williams Good evening fellow graduates, teachers, guests, and families, Before I start, no, I am not going to define a word from Webster’s Dictionary. Instead, I would rather thank everyone I have ever had the privilege of meeting in all my years at Bayless.

The support I have received from this school has helped me in unimaginable ways. If I sat here and accounted for each and every person who lent a guiding hand, I would run out of breath — and time. There is no combination of words I can put togeth- have to enjoy things as they come and not linger on the “coulder that encapsulates my gratitude for the staff here at Bayless. I have-beens” or “should-have-beens.” will carry a piece of them with me for the rest of my life. I would You know what they say, “Never go grocery shopping when you also like to give a special thanks to my parents and to my broth- are hungry, you will grab the wrong things.” I mean, we are all guilty of grabbing the snacks we maybe do not need, or caving er, for always pushing me past my limits to reach my fullest in to our cravings. This can be applied to life — never do anypotential. You guys’ belief in me made all the difference. thing when you are lonely, unhappy, or struggling, you might I share the same emotions with my classmates here today.

Guys what happened? Where did the time go? Time flies, and no come across the wrong things. Yes, ‘everything happens for a matter how much we want it to be otherwise, nothing lasts for- reason’ — but, that is so cliche. We have to let go of the illusion ever. It is very hard for me to fathom how we will go from seeing that things could have been any different, because even if they were, that does not mean they would have been better. Someeach other five days a week, to soon going our separate ways and living our separate lives. One day, I will be scrolling through times, things happen for no reason other than happenstance Instagram and I will see how much you guys have grown, but it and that is okay. It is not your job to figure out “why.” Everything is not the same behind a screen. Nothing will ever be the same always falls into place. Something better always fills the void in time. While you are waiting for that time to come, stop and as it is at this moment, and I think that is beautifully tragic.

These four years felt more like one. I have so many memories realize how amazing it is that you can momentarily experience the absurdity of life in both its kindest and cruelest forms. that I hold close to my heart — but I also have some I would I know walking across this stage today means I have to let go. rather forget…Memories are a weird concept — like yes, I will Letting go is one of the hardest things we have to do in life. Reremember all of your faces. I will remember the funny and awkward conversations, the smiles in the crowded halls, the dis- alizing that letting go does not erase the memories and feelings, creet looks in class when something is funny. I will remember but instead allows us to move forward is crucial. Remember, the us sitting in the bleachers at games, pep rallies and assemblies. best things in life are not meant to be possessed, they are meant to be felt. Good things come and go, but they come. Do not try to I will remember the borrowing of papers in class to hurriedly finish the assignment before it gets collected. I will remember hold onto things that are not meant to be held. Whatever is truly us talking for a whole class period despite knowing we had as- for you in life will find its way to you. So, if you do not rememsignments to finish and our teachers in the background telling ber anything I said because the attention span has been steadily us to “settle down.” How can we accept that this is it? That after going down over the years, leave with this at least: Everything is more beautiful because it is finite. Nothing lasts today, all we will have is a high school diploma and memories?

In a world of billions, how crazy is it that we had the privilege of forever. Past, present, future, all of it shapes us. Molds us. There growing up with one another? The chances of all of us meeting is no need to yearn for anything or regret anything. We are and being here today are so slim. To know we defied those odds right where we need to be. There is nothing wrong with feeling makes me feel like these memories we hold were not coinciden- uncertain but moving forward anyways. If you are scared, do it scared. If you are uncomfortable, do it uncomfortable. It is tally made. better to regret the things you have done rather than the things In a way, life is like driving. We all take a route that will evenyou chose not to do. tually lead us to our desired destinations. Everyone’s journey For those with conflicting emotions tonight, the good news is, is different, but it is likely some of us will cross paths along the it has passed and you will never have to experience it again. But way. You will ask yourself questions like, ‘Should I go left or the bad news is, it has passed and you will never have to experight? Should I take the shortcut or the scenic route? Should I rience it again. I am immensely proud of every single one of stop at QuikTrip for snacks?’ But the most important thing to remember is, if you keep looking in your rear view mirrors, you you sitting here today. I may not have seen the silent battles you guys have fought, or been there to celebrate the small achievewill crash. But if you don’t look in your rear view mirrors, you will crash too. Trust me, I know it is much easier to constantly ments along the way. But remember, a masterpiece is still a masterpiece even when no one is there to admire it. You all are think of the past or the future, or think about enjoying a mogreat, even if no one tells you. Congratulations everyone, we did ment too hard that the moment has actually already passed. it. Every end is a new beginning, even though the end of someLiving life deliberately and unapologetically is easier said thing can be a little sad. Like Winnie the Pooh said, “How lucky than done. At the end of the day, if you struggle with looking am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” back, you have to ask yourself: Even if I could go back, would Thank you.

I even belong there anymore? We only get this life once — we 8

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Graduation Speaker: Marissa Kohler Good evening. Before I begin, I would like to acknowledge the individuals who helped us become the people we are today. Parents, teachers, coaches, administrators, and the Board — you put an unfathomable amount of time into the success of each and every student on this stage.

Your job is not easy, and I know we do not help make it any easier. But still, it is one thing to do your job; it is another to truly care. Without your support, none of us would be here today. For that, I want to thank you.

To the Class of 2024, I would like to extend my gratitude.

I truly cannot imagine having grown up at any other school, in any other community, with any other group of people besides this one. Sometimes when I tell people I go to Bayless, they would comment on how small we are or sometimes, not know who we are at all. I feel sorry for these people. Bayless is small, but that does not mean we are not mighty. I feel fortunate to have grown up in such a community where I can say I have been to school with some of my friends since preschool. To be loved is to be known, and I see love in this community every day.

It doesn’t matter where we are from, what languages we speak, or who we are friends with. We are strong alone, but we are unstoppable together.

As we stand here today in our caps and gowns, I can’t help but reflect on how far we have come. We began our high school careers in our beds, watching online as the world changed around us. We tried to keep up with our friends by video chatting, sometimes while simultaneously listening to a math lesson on Zoom. Nobody could have prepared us for that, but we persisted. We grew apart to come back together, and it is hard to believe that after tonight, we will grow apart once again. But this time, it is for good.

In fact, I reflect on these memories not in regret, but in awe as to how fast this time flew by. We anxiously awaited the return to school freshman year, for masks to come off and to see each other’s faces again. We wanted the world to return to total normalcy so we could “catch up” and celebrate the moments in high school we always thought we would have together. Before we knew it, constant discussions about when COVID would end turned into conversations about college applications, driving, and getting a job. We went from thinking the world ending to feeling like it really was, when in fact, we were just on the cusp of becoming adults.

Thinking back on these memories, it is hard to believe this day has finally arrived. Today is the start of something new; we are emerging into the adults we always wanted to be. This may mean something different to each of us. Maybe you are pursuing the career you declared as a first grader, or maybe you are defying all expectations of what you thought you would do. Perhaps you wanted to Lifestyle Magazine

move farther away, but chose to stay close to home.

No matter what, I do believe that we will be defined by what we learned in our time here. And no, I don’t mean learning about Punnet Squares, or the Pythagorean theorem, or rhetorical exigence…we learned about life.

From our coaches, we learned how to be a team. From our teachers, we learned how to put in our best effort. We found our passions, our best friends, and our voices. We learned how to be problem solvers, creative and critical thinkers, and independent young adults. We learned how to become people we are proud of. And I hope that every single person on this stage is proud of all they have accomplished.

I have to admit that writing this speech proved to be harder than any essay I have had to write, which up until this point, I didn’t think was possible. But it was not hard for the reasons you might be thinking. When it came time to write this speech, I found myself struggling to articulate the mix of emotions I felt that this day was finally approaching. I am proud of who we have become. I was sad thinking that this was the last time we were going to be together. But standing here now, I feel comfort in knowing everything will be okay. This is merely part of our journey, perhaps the beginning of our stories. I hope we will meet somewhere along the way.

Many of the people on this stage are uncertain of the future. But no matter what your future looks like, I want to share one revelation I came to this year: we are not defined by who we are today. No matter what your class rank is, or what people you hang out with, your status as a student today does not determine your future. You are the person that will decide how you want to be known.

As we depart here today, I congratulate you, my fellow 2024 graduates. As we all move on to our future, whether it be in our career as a spouse, a parent, a friend, or a co-worker, may we always remember that the Portrait of a Graduate core values — problem solver, creative and critical thinker, collaborative communicator, and global citizen – do not stop here. This is something we should always carry with us, and remember how Bayless prepared us for the days, months, and years to come. Before I end, I want to leave you with a quote: “You and you alone are the only person that can live the life that writes the story that you were meant to tell. And the world needs your story because the world needs your voice.”

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Graduation Art

Decorating graduation mortarboards is becoming increasingly popular. These are some of the best from the Class of 2024!

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Graduation Speaker: Cameron Kelly Good evening family and friends,

I stand here today as a representative of a product that a great community and faculty can create. During moments of great achievement and accomplishment it’s natural for us to forget about how it’s more than just us. The years of commitment the faculty have gone through to teach us, the hours on end our staff go through to help create a proper environment, and the unforgettable 13 years that our parents watched fly by to this very moment are all a part of our journey. Yes, we’ve stuck through nights where all we wanted to do was sleep, written essays when we weren’t even sure what we were arguing for, and through trial and error tediously began learning how to balance everything in our lives. Your effort, your time, your stress, your failures, and your success have all led to a once in a lifetime achievement.

I suggest that after this speech you take the time to fully understand the amount you’ve grown. Like it or not, this is our signal into the gateway of life, the sign communicating that we’re no longer children or teenagers, we’re adults.

For me, I’ve been waiting to leave high school since it began.

That’s because I often daydream about “fast-forwarding” through dull or bad times because who wants to sit through those? No one does. But, this way of thinking is toxic. We can become obsessed with what’s to come and lose interest in the present, which is wasting time for something that is yet to come. I urge all of you to understand that everything you experience is unique. You can only experience it that exact way once in your lifetime. That’s why it’s imperative you do not allow yourself to become ignorant to what it’s in front of you now.

You will want to skip some parts of your journey. That’s because life is difficult, life is frustrating, life is demanding, life can be unforgiving, but the difficulty of those moments is exactly what makes life that much more rewarding. Removing all those moments that aren’t immediate success or breathtaking achievement or astounding accomplishment would only be doing yourself a disservice. Everything you’ve gone through is a part of who you are now. Your character has been strengthened by those exact moments.

Many of you have unimaginable problems, challenges, and setbacks that I couldn’t even begin to imagine, so don’t skip over them because they only break you down to build you higher. I congratulate all of you for being here no matter what has opposed you, continues to oppose you, and what will eventually oppose you.

The strength you’ve accumulated, through that struggle, is no longer just an attribute of your character, but I believe it to be a responsibility that you have an obligation to fulfil. We find and create our strength through each other. Help others in the same ways you wished someone would have helped you, lift up others how your loved ones did, be the reason that someone else can achieve their own strength. Be selfless.

I implore that you always strive for more than what you believe to be possible. Follow what calls you, climb past the goals you set for yourself, and become better everyday because no matter what, no one is perfect. You’ll never be perfect, you’ll Lifestyle Magazine

never be someone else, but here’s the thing: You are the only version of yourself. You’re irreplaceable, you’re the only person in the entire world that can bring your personality, your energy, and your being to wherever life takes you. So act like it.

And I promise that even though I may not know everyone of you personally, I believe that all of you will not only do great, but more importantly that you’ll be great. Every single one of you has shown characteristics, traits, abilities, and skills that are cherishable. All of you will bring something to this world, because you’re needed. Honestly, many of you have benefited me in the development of my own character.

And this is why I undoubtedly know you will change the world by simply being in others’ lives. Because we live in a world that is experienced through each other’s interactions, so never doubt the power you have to change “the world.” Because you don’t have to physically reach out to every single person in the world. Caring for just one person is changing someone’s “whole world.” Be you, so that others can be themselves.

Thank you to everyone, and I mean everyone, who has played a part in our graduation. You’ve laid the foundation for our character, our way of thinking, and our aspirations. Know that you have helped in the creation of our future in an amazing way. I do not care if it was something small or large, you are permanently a part of our future, whether we may be aware of it or not.

As I wrap up my speech, I want to selfishly ask that every graduate assure that they thank everyone here who’s helped them, in any way, to arriving at this exact moment. You are going to cry, you are going to fail, you are going to feel hopeless. You are going to smile, you are going to win, you are going to feel on top of the world. Persevere, because if you are feeling the good and bad, the ups and the downs, the hills and the valleys, you are living your life. Be kind to yourself, and allow yourself to feel the good and bad. You may not always be exactly where you want to be in life. And that is perfectly fine.

So long as you do not allow anything to hinder you from getting to where you want to be. We only get to experience life once, so do not take it for granted. Love with all of your heart, smile with all your teeth, and live with all your being. Do these things to look back at life with no regret. So even in moments where you have no idea what you are going to do or where life is taking you. Or when people ask you things like “So what do you think you’ll do? How are you gonna spend your life?” You can compose yourself and confidently respond with “I’m not sure.

But I do know. . . I’m going to live every minute of it.”

Thank you very much.

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Building a Better Bayless

Firm Foundations Building a Better Bayless

It is from our historic and newly built foundations of strength that Bayless is able to continue improving our community’s campus for our students and our residents. This summer, the Bayless campus is undergoing several maintenance and renovation projects to improve our facilities. Here is a detailed look at the work happening around the campus, from the elementary school to the new Central Office building.

At Bayless Elementary, significant improvements are being made in the fourth and fifthgrade hallways (along Hildesheim Avenue).

The project began with asbestos abatement to remove areas of original tile and other flooring. Outdated HVAC pipes and electrical fixtures have been removed to create additional space in the hallways and classrooms.

Painters are on-site, refreshing the walls and painting rooms in areas affected by the flooding, and electricians are installing new lighting. Soon, crews will place new acoustic ceiling tiles in the classrooms and hallways to enhance appearance and functionality. Finally, new flooring will be installed throughout the area. These renovations address the damage caused by the bathroom flood in December 2023 and will create a better environment for students and staff. This work is largely funded by insurance proceeds as a result of the flood loss.

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and restroom are being created in an unused classroom space. The current lounge is undersized and inadequate for the teachers’ needs. The new space will be more comfortable and functional, offering a better environment for work and collaboration. This upgrade reflects our ongoing commitment to providing our educators with the facilities they need.

Several major projects are underway at Bayless High School. Demolition work is progressing as planned on the gym floor that

The base floor of the High School Gym after the court was removed.

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was damaged during the Mother’s Day flood of 2023.

Due to the timing of that flood, this work was delayed until this summer. Crews began on May 28, and the initial demolition phase was completed in June. Bleacher relocation and final demolition are expected to be finished by early July. New flooring will be installed later in July, with the goal to have our gym ready by the time students return in AuThe entrance to Bayless High School during construction work. gust. Because this damage was caused by flood waters, school. Plumbers and masons are working these repairs are also being funded by insur- to create a modern, well-equipped space to ance proceeds. ensure students have access to high-quality The high school’s main entrance and vesticare when needed. This new nurse suite is a bule are receiving a security upgrade fundvital part of our efforts to help maintain the ed by a Missouri safety and security grant health and well-being of our students by proawarded this past spring. Work began on the viding a safe and supportive environment. project in June. These improvements will enFinally, the renovation of our new Central hance the entrance and pedestrian flow into Office building on Gravois Avenue is fully unBayless High School. This project aims to cre- derway. The framing of the building is nearly ate a safer and more efficient entryway and complete, and plumbers and electricians is expected to be completed before students have started their tasks to install essential return in August. systems. The completion date will become Additionally, a new nurse suite and remore clear once St. Louis County finalizes the stroom are being constructed at the high variance process for our parking lot. This new

The inside of the new Central Office building during rennovations.

Lifestyle Magazine

building will serve as a central hub for administration, improving our ability to support the Bayless community.

Each of these projects is an important part of our efforts to enhance the Bayless campus. These improvements will provide our students, staff, and community with better facilities, ensuring Bayless remains a place where everyone can succeed. We look forward to the completion of these projects and the positive impact they will have on our campus life.

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Good News

Foundational Knowledge: Seniors Earn Seal of Biliteracy

The Missouri Seal of Biliteracy is a distinction offered by the state to graduating seniors who demonstrate a high level of proficiency in writing, speaking and reading in a language other than English.

The students are tested on those skills, as well as cultural context and traditions. With thirteen recipients — four of which are distinguished — this is the largest group of BHS students to receive the Seal since it became available.

These graduates have a firm foundation to begin their lives after high school in today’s global economy.

First picture from Left to Right: • Almin Ivojevic — Bosnian (Distinguished) • Amela Kunic — Bosnian (Distinguished) • Ajla Salihovic — Bosnian (Distinguished) • Minela Topalovic — Bosnian (Distinguished) • Ahmed Begovic — Bosnian • Han Dang — Vietnamese • Emina Halilovic — Bosnian Second picture from Left to Right: • Alma Hasanovic — Bosnian • Ferishta Hussaini — Dari • Sabiri Ibrahim — Somali • Merim Malkic — Bosnian • Selma Osmanovic — Bosnian • Armela Zgalj — Bosnian

Successful Bronchos Over the next school year, we will be recognizing a small group of our distinguished alumni who have graduated in the 2000s and on. They will be featured in Bayless Magazine, on social media accounts and have a large printed banner that will be displayed at various events. We will showcase how they live out the Bayless Portrait of a Graduate Values. Scan the code below to submit a graduate for the committee to consider!

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Issue 2020

Nationally-Recognized Practices in BSD Every year, Character.Org awards the title of “Promising Practice” to activities and events schools hold that help build the foundations of community and character. Bayless Elementary has been awarded two designations, one for the Special Olympics Send-Off and one for Bayless Book Buddies. The Special Olympics Send-Off was featured on the cover of the spring edition of Bayless and sees the whole school gather to send off our students competing in Special Olympics. Bayless Book Buddies is a year-long program pairing kindergarteners with fifth graders. During the first “BuddyTime,” fifth graders read to kindergarteners to help encourage reading. As the year goes along, the roles switch and the kindergarteners use the time to read to the fifth graders and practice their newly-learned skills.

At the district level, Superintendent Ruzicka’s “Soup with the Supt.” has been Pizza with the Prez at BJH named as a Promising Practice. Ruzicka goes around to each of the buildings in the district to share a meal and connect with teachers and staff.

Board of Education President Woody Babb was also in the schools this year, with his “Pizza with the Pres” being named a Promising Practice. Babb went around to all of the schools to eat pizza with students and teachers, explain the role of a Board of Education, and learn about their experience at Bayless.

Soup with the Supt.

Special Olympics Send-Off

Bayless Book Buddies

The Class of 2024 throwing their caps into the air right after graduating.

Lifestyle Magazine

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4950 Heege Road Saint Louis, Missouri 63123 p. 314.256.8600 - f. 314.544.6315 Website:

baylessk12.org

Read the magazine digitally at: issuu.com/baylessschools

Where’s Joe Broncho?

Joe was hiding on one page in the last issue of

. In that issue, Joe was hiding out on page seven in a photo of

students observing the solar eclipse. Can you find Joe the ONE time he appears in this issue?

The 2024-2025 School Year begins August 20. To enroll your student contact the district registrar Barbara Shetley, 314-256-8100 OR scan the QR Code for information on how to register. Any child that will be five before August 1 is eligible for school.

El año escolar 2024-2025 comienza el 20 de agosto. Para inscribir a su estudiante, comuníquese con la registradora del distrito Barbara Shetley, 314-256-8100 O escanee el código QR para obtener información sobre cómo registrarse. Cualquier niño que cumpla cinco años antes del 1 de agosto es elegible para ir a la escuela.

Năm học 2024-2025 bắt đầu vào ngày 20 tháng 8. Để ghi danh cho học sinh của bạn, hãy liên hệ với nhà đăng ký học khu Barbara Shetley, 314-256-8100 HOẶC Quét mã QR để biết thông tin về cách đăng ký. Bất kỳ đứa trẻ nào đủ năm tuổi trước ngày 1 tháng 8 đều đủ điều kiện đến trường. ‫ جهت شامل ساخنت طفل خویش با مسوول بخش ثبت نام ناحیه خانم باربارا شیلتی در‬.‫ آگست آغاز میشود‬۲۰ ‫ به تاریخ‬۲۰۲۵ – ۲۰۲۴ ‫سال تعلیمی‬ ‫ به متاس شوید و یا کیار کود را توسط موبایل هوشمند تان سکن منایید تا معلومات الزم در مورد ثبت نام و شمولیت‬8100-256-314 ‫شامره تلیفون‬ ‫ هر طفلی که قبل از اول آگست پنچ ساله میشود واجد رشایط شمولیت مکتب میباشد‬.‫مکتب را بدست آورید‬. Školska godina 2024-2025 počinje 20. avgusta. Da biste upisali svoje dijete, kontaktirajte Barbaru Shetley, na broj 314-256-8100 ili skenirajte QR za informacije u vezi registracije.

Svako dijete koje će napuniti pet godina prije 1. avgusta može se upisati u školu.

Enroll your child in school now!

،‫ د ولسوالی د نوم لیکنی څانګې مسوول‬،‫ د خپل ماشوم د شاملولو لپاره‬.‫ تاریخ پیل يش‬۲۰ ‫ کال د اګست په‬۲۰۲۴ ‫ تعلیمی کال به د‬2024-2025 ‫د‬ ‫ تلیفون شمیره اړیکه ونیسی یا خپل تلیفون کې الندنی کیار کوډ سکن کری ترڅو د ښوونځي د ثبت او‬8100-256-314 ‫آغلې باربرا شلتي رسه په‬ ‫ هر هغه ماشوم چې د اګست تر لومړی نیټې پوری پنځه کلن شی د ښوونځي د شاملیدو وړ دی‬.‫شاملولو په اړه اړین معلومات ترالسه کړي‬.

2024-2025 स्कल ू वर्ष अगस्त 20 मा सुरु हुनछ ् । आफ्नो विद्यार्थी भर्ना गर्न जिल्ला रजिस्टर् ार बारबरा शेटली, 314-2568100 मा सम्पर्क गर्नहु ोस् वा कसरी दर्ता गर्ने बारे जानकारीको लागि QR कोड स्कय् ान गर्नहु ोस्। अगस्ट 1 अघि पाँच वर्षको हुने कुनै पनि बच्चा विद्यालयको लागि योग्य हुनछ े ।

‫ أو قم‬8100-256-314 ،‫ اتصل مبسجل املنطقة باربرا شيتيل‬،‫ لتسجيل طالبك‬.‫ أغسطس‬20 ‫ يف‬2024-2025 ‫يبدأ العام الدرايس‬ Magazin‫يكون مؤهًالً لاللتحاق باملدرسة مبسح رمز االستجابة الرسيعة للحصول عىل‬ ‫ أي طفل سيبلغ الخامسة‬.‫التسجيل‬ 16 ‫معلومات حول كيفية‬ ‫من عمره قبل األول من أغسطس‬

Issue 2020