Pattonville
Board approves tax rates for 2024-2025
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Candidate filing for school board seats opens Dec. 10
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Pattonville celebrates homecoming
BOARD OF EDUCATION
Mary Kay Campbell, President Jeanne Schottmueller, Vice President
Dr. Dan Wentz, Secretary Lisa Kickbusch, Treasurer
Dr. Brian J. Gray, Director Jan Schweiss, Director Rená Simmons, Director
Dr. Barry Nelson Superintendent
Pattonville is an award-winning public district in St. Louis County, Missouri. The district is fully accredited by the state and is recognized for academic success on the regional, state and national level.
The Pattonville community celebrated homecoming on Oct. 4 and 5. The activities started on Friday with the Pattonville High School varsity football game against Seckman High School and included halftime festivities and performances. On Saturday, Pattonville hosted a K-8 fun run and a parade featuring floats and walking groups from every school as well as high school organizations and community groups. School floats were decorated to honor the theme Together Through the Seasons. A student dance took place that evening. Top left, cheerleaders, including senior Akira Kendrick, left, and junior Imari Young, performed during the homecoming game. Middle left, Rose Acres Elementary School third grader Charles Stage participates in the K-8 fun run. Above, senior quarterback Kameron Eleby gets ready to throw the ball. Top right, the senior class float celebrates the season of summer. Middle right, students at Willow Brook Elementary School ride on their multi-season float, which received the Green and White Award for best community float. Bottom right, the band and color guard, including sophomore guard member Jasmine Hill, perform during halftime.
Cell phone use in schools topic of review, conversation
Over the past few months, discussions about best practices for managing students’ use of cell phones in schools have gained momentum across the country. Perspectives vary widely among students, parents and educators regarding the pros and cons of cell phone accessibility and how best to navigate the associated challenges.
Students often emphasize the importance of having their phones available for emergencies and staying connected with friends and family. Meanwhile, parents and guardians have mixed feelings about cell phone use at school. Many appreciate the ability to reach their children quickly in case of emergencies or to adjust after-school plans. However, there are also widespread concerns about the negative impacts of cell phones, such as distractions, cyberbullying, theft or loss of expensive devices and the potential for misinformation during emergencies.
Our behavior guides in the Pattonville School District provide clear expectations for cell phone use. For students in kindergarten through eighth grade, phones are prohibited in classrooms unless used for instructional purposes approved by staff. Phones must be kept off or set to vibrate or silent mode. At the high school level, phones are also restricted during class but may be used during passing periods and lunch, allowing students some flexibility while still maintaining order and focus in academic settings.
Recent events and policies in other districts further highlight the complexities of this issue. The Education Week article “The Georgia School Shooting May Accelerate the Backlash to Cellphone Bans” discusses how the tragic shooting at Apalachee High School in Georgia has reignited debates on cell phone policies. Like students, many parents view cell phones as critical tools for direct emergency communication, offering reassurance. However, educators caution that cell phone use during crises can distract students from safety protocols and complicate emergency responses, particularly when parents rush to the school after receiving messages from their children. The article suggests that schools must engage parents and educators in finding balanced policies addressing safety and communication needs.
The Education Week article “School Cellphone Bans Gain Steam as Los Angeles Unified Signs On” highlights the trend of banning cell phones in schools. The Los Angeles Unified School District recently adopted a policy banning phones during the school day, citing concerns over their negative impact on student well-being and learning. California’s governor, Gavin Newsom, expressed support for statewide restrictions, aligning with similar bans implemented in Florida and Indiana. However, experts like Merve Lapus from Common Sense Media advise that bans should consider equity issues, as some students rely on their phones for educational access. In Pattonville, the district provides a device to each student to support their learning during the school day. Lapus also emphasizes teaching healthy technology habits, as removing phones from school alone won’t solve all related challenges.
While no changes to Pattonville’s behavior guides are planned for this school year, the district continuously evaluates what is working and where improvements can be made.
We invite you to complete a survey on this using the link or QR code at right. Feedback from this survey will be shared at our district Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (CSIP) meeting in November to help determine best practices for cell phone use in our schools.
Board approves tax rates for school year
The Pattonville Board of Education on Sept. 24 voted to approve the district tax rate for the 20242025 school year. School boards in St. Louis County set tax rates each year for four classes of property within school district boundaries: residential, commercial, personal and agricultural. The rates for all four property classes, as approved by the board, are: residential: $3.8259; agricultural: $5.3783; commercial: $4.7848; and personal property: $5.3783.
As the assessed value of each class of property changes, the district is limited to the lesser of three factors by Missouri law to determine the amount of revenue it can receive. Those factors and their rates in Pattonville for 2024 are: Change in total assessed valuation, which decreased by 0.32%; the increase in Consumer Price Index (CPI), at 3.4%; or no more than 5% if the other rates are higher.
Because the district saw an overall decrease in assessed valuation, tax revenue compared to last year will remain flat, with the exception of new construction. The decrease in assessed value is primarily due to protested appeals to commercial property. Budget projections for this year anticipated a 1.5% increase in tax revenue, but due to the decrease in assessed value, the operating budget will decrease by $1.6 million. Budget revisions will be presented to the board later this school year.
The district’s change in assessed valuation is determined by the change in residential, commercial and personal property values. This year, the assessed value of residential property increased by 0.06%, commercial decreased by 2.15% and personal property increased 3.35%. The overall assessed valuation for all property in the district, excluding new construction, decreased 0.32%.
About 85% of Pattonville’s revenue comes from local sources, which include taxes paid on property in the district. These taxes are based on the assessed value of the property, as determined by the St. Louis County assessor’s office. Pattonville will continue to monitor district revenues and expenditures to ensure the district remains fiscally responsible.
Pattonville’s residential rate will be lower than the rates for agricultural, commercial and personal property, as promised to voters when they approved the Proposition P tax rate increase in 2013. At the time of the election, the district promised to limit the residential tax rate increase for as many years as possible. Prop P allowed the district to levy up to 99 cents, but the district kept its commitment during the past 11 years to maintain a lower residential tax rate. Because the residential assessed valuation increased, the Hancock Amendments requires the residential rate to be rolled back so that the district only receives the allowable amount of tax revenue. As a result, the district’s residential rate is $0.0331 lower for the 2024-2025 school year.
Pattonville is also one of three districts in St. Louis County that has not waived all of Proposition C, a one-cent Missouri sales tax dedicated to education approved by voters
in 1982. Under its provisions, half of the money received by a local district is used to roll back local property taxes. Because of Prop C, Pattonville rolled back all tax rates by $0.2189, totaling $2.1 million.
Pattonville continues to take a voluntary rollback to its debt service tax rate in order to lessen the tax burden on homeowners. The district’s debt service tax rate, which is part of the district’s overall tax levy, remains unchanged at 49 cents per $100 of assessed valuation, as promised to voters when they approved zero tax-rate-change bond issues in 2022, 2017, 2010 and 2006. Under the state’s formula for calculating tax rates and the district’s taxing capacity, the district could have levied $0.2850 cents more in its debt service tax rate. The total tax rate, including debt service, approved for residential properties is $4.3298 per $100 of assessed valuation. The overall impact of voluntary rollbacks on a $200,000 home in the district equates to a 11.6% reduction in homeowner tax bills (see chart below).
Pattonville is also continuing to monitor the potential impact of the senior property tax freeze, which allows counties in Missouri to provide a tax credit to seniors. St. Louis County began accepting applications in October for the 2025 tax year. Qualifying seniors would be exempt from property tax increases and their taxes would be frozen at the base amount set the year they qualify. The county collector will calculate the base tax and the amount that would have been charged without the freeze and not bill for that amount. The Hancock Amendment allows taxing districts to adjust their tax rate for lost revenue. However, since the senior tax freeze is an after-the-calculation tax credit, there is no provision in its approved law to account for the recovery of lost revenue. As such, it is impossible to forecast the potential decrease in revenue, particularly the first year when the amount of eligible residents is unpredictable. Additionally, reduced revenues and the freezing of a portion of assessed values could be viewed negatively by credit rating agencies due to creating uncertainty and perceived instability in the community. This could negatively impact the district’s credit rating, which would increase the district’s overall cost of borrowing.
KEEPING OUR PROMISES
Pattonville committed to keeping its debt service levy at 49 cents when voters approved zero tax-rate-change bond issues in 2022, 2017, 2010 and 2006, and the district has kept this promise despite being legally able to adjust the rate due to changes in property values. The chart below shows this year’s voluntary debt service rollback, along with other tax rate reductions the board of education approved this year in order to reduce the tax burden on homeowners.
Tax rate reductions for homeowners
Dr. Barry Nelson Superintendent
Our Learners Spotlight on
News focusing on students, staff and schools in Pattonville
DRUMMOND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Book club unites school community to build joy of reading
This school year, Drummond Elementary School is welcoming the entire community to share and enjoy the love of reading. Drummond staff created a school book club aimed at bringing together everyone through shared reading experiences.
During monthly meetings in the school library, participants engage in discussions and activities related to that month’s book. Created by library technology specialist Sierra Dertinger and fifth grade teacher Jessi Thompson, the goal of the book club is to foster a sense of belonging and community and build a love for reading. For this reason, the book club is open to all students, staff and their families.
“I hope students view reading as a means to escape and connect with others,” Dertinger said. “The books we chose this year are for the students but we also hope families will participate too, as we believe their involvement is essential in their child’s reading journey.”
Students not only got to explore books with schoolmates, but also with their families.
“My mom came,” third grader Nora Thornburgh said. “We talked with June (Elliott, a classmate) and we discussed what we liked about the book. Book club was fun and I hope the next one is as fun as this one was. I’m going to try to come to all of them. I think I’m going to read the October book because I like the pictures. June and I are going to get read it together.”
The book club kicked off in September with “The Wild Robot” by Peter Brown. It wasn’t a coincidence that the movie adaptation was coming out the weekend after the book club meeting.
“We had to hook them in for the first pick and this book has been a New York Times bestseller for the past eight years,” Dertinger said. “It is a tried and true choice for class read alouds and a great chapter book for all ages with its short chapters, plentiful illustrations and
WILLOW BROOK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
lovable characters.”
They encouraged students who planned to see the movie to compare it with the book they just completed.
“We are teachers so it’s hard not to input a bit of learning in with our discussion,” Thompson said. “Making a comparison between the movie and book hopefully provided a bit more buy-in for wanting to read the book as well. However, the book is always better than the movie. We also referred to text-to-self connections: a reading comprehension skill many learn in their classrooms.”
At the end of the meeting, attendees received a treat: a keychain. Each month, those who read the book will receive a bead to add to the keychain as a keepsake to acknowledge their participation. The first bead was green to reflect the nature setting of “The Wild Robot.”
Each month, the book club will feature a different type of story and a different type of book, including picture books and chapter books, to appeal to a wide range of participants. October’s meeting will have a spooky vibe, while November will focus on gratitude.
“What is neat about the book club is that each month is different,” Thompson said. “So maybe a chapter book isn’t quite in your independent reading preference, but the picture book next month is. We wanted to focus on the love of reading and introducing students to a variety of genres. By doing so, we may not have your interest in September, but we will try to draw you in again in October. We also realize that by having a specific type of book, like a chapter book, as the monthly book, we are not meeting the needs of all of our learners. By offering different lengths, we can encourage shared reading, independent reading or even a classroom read aloud.”
Not only does this allow participants to explore a variety of types of books, it’s also beneficial to appeal to
Staff, student art project brings smiles to school
Willow Brook Elementary School students are spreading positivity through a collaborative art project inspired by the work of artist Jimmy Pierce, also known as Jimmy Paintz. What began as a staff-led initiative became an opportunity for students to express themselves while contributing to the school’s welcoming environment.
Initially, art teacher Dawn Lynn organized the project during a staff professional development day at the beginning of the school year where teachers designed colorful smiley faces that reflect the school’s theme of positivity. The success of this project led Lynn to introduce a version for students, inviting them to create their own smiley faces for a bulletin board display.
Students eagerly took part, decorating smiley faces with bright colors and creative designs. These individual creations were compiled to form a vibrant display
that aims to bring smiles to everyone who walks by. The project not only allowed students to showcase their artistic abilities but also contributed to building a collaborative school atmosphere.
“I love working on all-school collaborations that mirror our diverse community and reflect our school family,” Lynn said.
The project also caught the attention of Pierce himself, who acknowledged the work on social media, spreading the message of positivity beyond Willow Brook.
The staff artwork will be sealed in resin and displayed permanently in the school. In the meantime, the student bulletin board version serves as a daily reminder of the power of positivity and how small acts of creativity can make a big impact in building a supportive school community.
the various participants, since the book club is open to not just students, but also families and staff.
“This is a wonderful way to discover all the possibilities that books can provide,” Dertinger said. “We hope students experience the magic of reading a book and feel the thrill of bonding with others over the same story. Whether it’s with a friend, family member or teacher, reading together makes the experience even more meaningful. We are all about instilling the love of reading within our community.”
Students had the chance to interact with students they may not know. Or, for some students, it was a chance to share their love of “The Wild Robot” with friends.
“I sat next to my friend, and it was fun to share that experience with her,” Elliott said. “I think I’m going to come to the next one. I want to go to all of them and get all of the beads. It would be fun to have all the beads for all the different books.”
Overall, the book club is providing a fun learning experience and opportunity to build relationships with others.
“We hope that not only they love to read and experience a variety of genres of books, but also that reading can be more fun with a friend,” Thompson said.
Drummond Elementary School third grader Nora Thornburgh, left, shows off a drawing from “The Wild Robot” during the school’s book club. Also participating are third grader June Elliott, middle, and second grader Jerron Gray Jr.
Students at Willow Brook Elementary School color smiley faces to display on a bulletin board. Above, a student hangs their art on the display. Right, first graders Kinsley Bell, left, and Arturo Martinez Jr. work on coloring their smiley face.
PARKWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
First Showcase Night aims to unite school, home families
Families worked together to tie rubber bands around shirts to prepare them for being tie-dyed. Parents watched as their children used mallets to hit various percussion instruments in the music room. Students showed siblings what they’ve learned this school year.
All of these home-school connections were done during Parkwood Elementary School’s first Showcase Night, an event created to bring families together for a memorable evening focused on connection and community. The event’s theme, Our School Family, was created to build the atmosphere of a family gathering, allowing students to share their school experiences with both their school and home families.
“This year’s theme reflects our desire to create the feeling of a big family,” art teacher Janel MacLean said. “We wanted students to introduce their families at home to their school family. The theme emphasizes the importance of building meaningful relationships early in the school year — not just within the classroom, but also between school and home. We want everyone to feel like they belong to one big, supportive community.”
Showcase Night was filled with interactive activities and hands-on experiences, each designed to celebrate community and build relationships between school and home. Families were invited to visit classrooms, connect with teachers and see examples of student work ahead of parent-teacher conferences.
In addition, there were a variety of activities for families to participate in throughout the building. Each grade level showcased projects aligned with their Learner Profile, which were displayed near each classroom. In addition, specials classes hosted activities in their space. PE offered games, like cornhole, for families to enjoy together. The library was set up with STEM activities for families to try out. Counselors set up tables with coloring and emergency planning activities.
Families also got to see the new building addition, funded by Prop S, Pattonville’s $111 million no-tax rate increase bond issue, which includes classrooms as well as art and music spaces. In music, students and parents participated in an instrument petting zoo. To highlight art, students tie-dyed shirts in grade-specific colors.
“Even though I’ve only been in the new space for a short time, I’ve worked hard to create an inspiring environment,” MacLean shared. “It was rewarding to share that vision with families and see them experience the space firsthand.”
As families navigated the school and engaged in activities, they participated in a scavenger hunt where they collected beads which they used to create a keychain that, when completed, spelled the word “family” with a blue heart, Parkwood’s school color.
“My favorite part was how we came in through the door, there were little scavenger hunts and keychains for
BRIDGEWAY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
us so we could spell out the word family,” fifth grader Peyton Williams said.
Throughout the night, the school’s daily routines were woven in, including morning announcements, a mindful moment and the closing school mantra.
A special part of the evening took place outside, where permanent substitute Michelle Evans took family photos. Evans charged $5 for the mini photo sessions, with all of the money going to pay student lunch debt.
“Our theme this year is Our School Family, and what better way to celebrate that than with a family portrait,” Evans said. “The families greatly appreciated it and thoroughly enjoyed the relaxed, comfortable atmosphere. We undertook this initiative to support and care for our school family. This small effort helped alleviate both the financial and emotional burden for some of our families. We are proud to have raised close to $250.”
The goal of Showcase Night was to foster a sense of community by bringing families together, highlighting student learning and strengthening connections between school and home. It was a celebration of connection, creativity and community.
“My favorite part was undoubtedly the family portraits,” MacLean said. “When (Evans) shared the photos with me, I was moved to tears by the beauty and diversity of our Parkwood families. It was a heartfelt reminder of the vibrant community we have built together.”
Music stations allow freedom, flexibility in student learning
Bridgeway Elementary School is welcoming students into a newly expanded music room, providing them with more space to explore their creativity through music stations. This larger area supports hands-on learning and allows for greater collaboration among students.
Music stations are structured areas where students engage with different instruments and musical concepts. These stations promote independent learning and teamwork by allowing students to try various activities, such as composing, playing or practicing with different instruments or work on different skills. This year, students will also have the opportunity to design and organize their own stations, fostering ownership of their learning.
“The new space allows students the ability to spread out and work in groups to create their own projects and also allows students to have access to all the instruments, rather than having only one group out at a time,” music teacher Shannon Senzig said. “This allows us to try a wider variety of movement and instrument activities.”
The new space provides ample room for multiple small groups to work simultaneously. Students can break into groups and compose their own pieces. In the coming weeks, they will begin using classroom instruments to create accom-
paniments for a piece of their choice.
During a fifth grade music class — the first group to have a class in the new space — students had multiple opportunities to utilize the concept of stations. First, students selected an instrument of their choosing and gathered in small groups to create their own melody, which they then performed. After that, they could keep the same instrument or change it and worked as a class to play a song Senzig wrote.
Later in the school year, several specialized studios will be introduced, including ones for guitar, keyboard, recorder and percussion. These studios will allow students to choose their focus and work independently or collaboratively to refine their performances.
The additional space will also extend beyond the music room itself. Senzig is working on plans to set up a recording area in the hallway, giving students a chance to capture and share group performances.
The larger music space is one room in the new building addition at Bridgeway made possible by Prop S, Pattonville’s $111 million zero tax-rate increase bond issue. The new music space reflects a commitment to innovative learning, offering students a dynamic environment to explore, create and perform.
Parkwood Elementary School hosted its first Showcase Night. Left, third grader Joshua Sutton, left, and his mom Cherri Merchant try out the new music room. Second from left, permanent substitute Michelle Evans, left, takes pictures of fourth grade friends, from left, Josephine Howard, Helen Besserman and Maya Morgan. Second from right, first grader Carleh Dabney, left, gets help stringing beads on her keychain from her teacher, Tiffany Laughlin, right, while her mom, Carirza Dabney, watches. Right, counselor Kendra Worsham, left, asks kindergartner KaNylah Meek safety questions while, from left, her brother, Pattonville High School freshman Kardiaire Hillman, and mom Kiera Butler listen.
Fifth graders in Dan Derby’s class attend the first lesson in the new music room at Bridgeway Elementary School. Music teacher Shannon Senzig said the space allows students to participate in stations to personalize their learning. Top, from left, Emilia Miller, Meilo Adams, Jackson Branson, Melanie McElravy and Adam Abaza try different instruments. Above, a group works together to create a melody. They are, from left, Lucy Herzogenrath, Laila Allen, Arianna Patrick, Keegan Wilkes, Brianna Carson, Trevor Sunderman and Kinsley Mohler.
Students lead program revisions
The Academy of Innovation at Remington is revitalizing its Renaissance program, now rebranded as the Pirate Pride program, after a student vote. As part of an Extended Learning Opportunity (ELO), middle school students led the rebranding initiative that reflects a renewed focus on student engagement and recognition. On Friday, Sept. 27, the school hosted a kickoff event in the library to introduce the newly revitalized program.
The launch event featured presentations from various student committees providing updates on their work. Each of the committees had a focus in the rebranding, including areas like eligibility/criteria, rewards, marketing, rivals, name/logo and hype. The student leaders also connected their process and efforts to the Launch Cycle, a key framework used in Remington’s new learning model this year.
A representative from the name/logo committee unveiled the Pirate Pride name and logo, followed by a student from the eligibility/ criteria committee outlining behavior and academic expectations for earning rewards. Monthly prizes will include outings to Urban Air and Slick City, homeroom pizza parties and more, with eligibility resetting at the start of each month. The rewards committee shared the schedule for these upcoming prizes, emphasizing that students must maintain eligibility each month through positive behavior and academic responsibility.
The rivals committee then announced plans for monthly challenges, pep assemblies and new team T-shirts featuring the Pirate Pride logo. Each homeroom across grades 6-8 will participate in team competitions, further encouraging collaboration and excitement throughout each middle school grade in the school.
The launch celebration concluded with a balloon drop, organized by the hype committee, with balloons released from a parachute hung from the ceiling, adding a splash of color and fun to the kickoff event. Balloon arches at the entrance also greeted students, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Remington’s Pirate Pride program.
ROSE ACRES ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Student
AHOLMAN MIDDLE SCHOOL
Rocks designed, set in courtyard to spread positivity
Students at Holman Middle School are spreading positivity by refreshing a courtyard display as part of the school’s Kindness Rocks project. Led by Montie Richter’s art classes and Alisa Neal’s family and consumer sciences (FACS) classes, students gave new life to painted rocks that were originally decorated in 2020. The updated rocks feature fresh coats of paint, vibrant designs and encouraging messages aimed at brightening the day of anyone who passes by.
The project required students to decorate rocks with inspirational quotes, cheerful artwork and fun designs before placing them in the school’s courtyard. The courtyard is a commonly used area where students walk between classes or take breaks, making it the perfect spot for the display.
“We’ve been making rocks with kindness for people to see and get inspired,” said seventh grader Daiana Perez-Resendiz, who is in Richter’s 2D Art class. “If someone is having a bad day, they can read a rock and get inspired.”
Students were motivated knowing their art would be on display for the entire school to see.
“I use the courtyard when walking to my other classes, so I know it’s a place where everyone in the school is going to see my work,” Perez-Resendiz said. “When they do, I hope they feel happy and maybe forget the bad in their day.”
Seventh grader Maple Fowler, who’s in 2D Art, focused on using humor to lift spirits.
“We were painting rocks to spread kindness around the school, and hopefully people walking by in the courtyard will see them,” Fowler said. “I created silly faces on mine to spread smiles. Kindness is something that could hopefully light up some people’s days.”
The creative process began with students spray-painting the rocks in vibrant colors, followed by using paint markers and stencils to personalize their designs. The students took pride in their work, knowing it would be a lasting part of the courtyard.
“I’m going to be proud to see my artwork out there and for everyone else to see it,” Perez-Resendiz said, who decorated rocks with characters like Hello Kitty, Minions and Patrick Star from SpongeBob SquarePants alongside inspirational quotes.
Sixth grader Bella Cottner in Neal’s Explore Lab 1 class also participated in the project and reflected on its purpose.
“The Kindness Rocks project brings positivity to our school,” Cottner said. “It just makes people’s day to see the bright colors and fun designs and I hope it brings them happiness.”
leaders share ideas meant to initiate, create meaningful change
t Rose Acres Elementary School, students are taking the lead in improving their school community through the FranklinCovey Leader in Me (LIM) program. The initiative, designed to develop leadership skills in every student, is creating a culture of inclusion, collaboration and personal growth.
The LIM program at Rose Acres integrates ideas from Stephen Covey’s book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People into everyday school life, empowering
students to take ownership of projects that benefit their peers. A key piece of the program is the assignment of every student and staff member into ships, which are small groups that meet regularly to work on projects aimed at improving the school environment.
“Our goal is for students to take charge of these leadership roles and guide their peers,” counselor Amber Sidwell said. “It’s about empowering students to lead, not just follow directions from teachers.”
The student leadership team, supported by a FranklinCovey coach, recently held a meeting where they discussed what they liked about Rose Acres and brainstormed ways to make the school even better. These meetings allow students to shape their school experience and focus on meaningful changes.
Fifth grader Semaj Jones, who has served as a Lighthouse Leader since fourth grade, shared her experience of being part of the program.
“I get to meet new people and help others,” Jones said. “I was chosen because my teacher saw me as a role model, and now I get to help even more in fifth grade.”
Second grader Kennedy Brown, also a Lighthouse Leader, expressed excitement about being involved.
“I’m happy to be part of it because I get to meet new
friends and help make the school better,” Brown said.
The process of becoming a Lighthouse Leader is open to all students and involves filling out an application, getting teacher approval and demonstrating leadership qualities. Teachers recommend students based on their ability to act as role models and their potential to lead their peers. The program ensures that leadership opportunities are available to everyone, regardless of academic standing or behavior.
“Every student is part of the Leader in Me program,” Sidwell said. “It’s not like traditional student councils where only a few kids are involved. Here, every student has the chance to participate and lead and be a part of their ship.”
Students chosen as Lighthouse Leaders then take what they’ve discussed in their meetings back to their peers, reinforcing a sense of collective ownership over school initiatives. By focusing on student empowerment, the LIM program is helping Rose Acres students discover their potential as leaders while fostering a positive and inclusive school culture.
“It’s not about what teachers tell them to do, it’s what they’ve decided to work on,” Sidwell said. “It means more when the students come up with the actions and get the support of their classmates.”
Students at Holman Middle School painted rocks to support a positive atmosphere. Far left, sixth grader Adriana Blanks preps rocks for painting. Left, students lay out their painted rocks in the courtyard. They are, from left, seventh grader Daiana Perez-Resendiz, sixth graders Bella Cottner, Nayla Jordan, Azariah Firrow and seventh grader Brooklyn Hester.
Student at Rose Acres Elementary School participate in a leadership training for lighthouse leaders. Shown are, from left, second grader Veda Klott, second grader Kennedy Brown, fifth grader Semaj Jones and second grader Lucy Rutledge.
Academy of Innovation at Remington sixth grader Bethel Fantahun presents about the school’s revamped recognition program.
Pattonville High School theater students perform Operation Homecoming Safe, an annual safety performance highlighting the dangers of driving impaired.
Theater teacher Lara Corvera, left, shows senior Mia Gallagher, right, how to do realistic makeup for the performance.
PATTONVILLE HIGH SCHOOL
Meaningful performance held
Pattonville High School held Operation Homecoming Safe on Sept. 30, a performance aimed at educating students about the dangers of impaired driving. Organized in collaboration with the Pattonville Fire Protection District and the Maryland Heights Police Department, the docudrama featured high school theater students reenacting a car crash caused by driving under the influence. The performance, which took place in the school parking lot, was attended by juniors and seniors as part of the homecoming week activities.
Chief Jim Usry of the Pattonville Fire Protection District emphasized the importance of the performance to help students understand the real-life consequences of driving under the influence.
“At this stage in their lives, some students feel invincible, but our goal is to come in and tell them the facts,” Usry said. “In the U.S., we see 43,000 roadway fatalities every year. In Missouri, that number is around 260, with 43% of those accidents involving someone who is impaired by drugs or alcohol. We want to stress the importance of making responsible decisions.”
The theater students’ performance was designed to make a lasting impact, portraying the emotional and physical toll of a car crash. Senior Ellis North, who played the role of the impaired driver, described the experience as intense.
“I felt like I was actually in the moment with the setup and I really let the anxiety build up in order to thrash out and be angry, and honestly, I just felt that vibe,” North said. “When I did the sobriety test and got arrested, I had to remind myself to stay in character and just fake it as much as possible, but it felt very real.”
The event also gave students in the theater program a chance to gain a unique performance experience offering a chance to do a little improvisation acting.
Lara Corvera, the school’s theater teacher, who helped the students apply their makeup beforehand, said it’s a valuable learning opportunity for her students.
“This is another performance experience for them and in a different kind of venue than we’re typically in,” Corvera said. “It adds to their little bag of tricks and offers them another chance to be part of something.”
For senior Addison Gutschenritter, participating in the simulation was a meaningful experience.
“My mom did this when she was in high school, too, and I’ve always wanted to be part of it,” Gutschenritter said. “I’ve been involved in theater for as long as I can remember, and I was excited to be part of it.”
Over the years, Operation Homecoming Safe has become a key event at Pattonville High School. The combination of dramatic performance and real-life emergency response creates a lasting impression on students, reinforcing the importance of making smart, safe choices.
“We’d rather spend 30 minutes talking to students here, sharing these lessons, than find ourselves talking to their families after a tragedy,” Usry explained as the goal of the event. “Our message is simple: have fun, but be responsible.”
PATTONVILLE HEIGHTS MIDDLE SCHOOL
Students explore history, rights on Constitution Day
Pattonville Heights Middle School celebrated Constitution Day with engaging activities designed to help students understand the significance of the U.S. Constitution. Observed annually on Sept. 17, the day commemorates the signing of the Constitution in 1787.
During Pirate Time, teachers led discussions about the Constitution using a Google Slides presentation and videos. Social studies classes also incorporated grade-specific activities to further students’ understanding of the document.
Sixth graders watched educational videos and participated in a classroom Bill of Rights activity, allowing them to consider their rights as students.
Seventh graders played a Constitution-themed bingo game, creating their own bingo cards with relevant vocabulary words and discussing key terms during play. Eighth graders viewed a brief video on the Constitution and took part in a Kahoot! quiz to test their knowledge.
Nathan Reinoehl, a sixth grader in Carter Kennedy’s Pirate Academy social studies class, said he played bingo.
“It was pretty competitive, but it was a lot of fun,” he said. “I learned that people in American history have gained a lot from the Constitution and it was a lot more chaotic back then.”
Eighth grade social studies teacher and department chair Adam Seibert IV said it’s important to teach foundational concepts.
“I think teaching all the basics early on is crucial,
PATTONVILLE EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER
especially because they’re getting close to the age of being able to vote,” Seibert said. “They kind of need to understand how the electoral process works.”
Students learned about the Bill of Rights, which encompasses the first 10 amendments to the Constitution, highlighting the essential freedoms of speech, religion, press, assembly and petition.
“I believe that freedom of speech is really important,” Reinoehl said.
Some students collaborated to create a classroom Bill of Rights, suggesting rights such as the freedom to express yourself and the right to ask questions.
“Normally, we start our Constitution unit in February, so it will be revisited again later in the year,” Seibert said.
Youngest learners receive vital vision screenings
Every student at the Pattonville Early Childhood Center recently received a free vision screening thanks to a visit from KidSight, a nonprofit organization that offers eye screenings for children across Missouri. The screenings, which use a special photoscreening device, help detect potential vision issues in children as young as six months old.
The trained staff from KidSight took pictures of each child’s eyes and instantly analyzed the images for signs of vision problems, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism. Children identified as being at risk were referred to an eye specialist. According to school nurse Stepany Dominquez, these screenings are especially important for young children.
“Because this age group doesn’t really know what’s considered abnormal, they either don’t tell their parents because to them, their vision is normal, or they don’t have the words to do so,” Dominquez said. “KidSight provides screenings that are fast and easy. They can help detect abnormalities in kids’ vision and help parents navigate the referral process to ensure prompt follow-up and treatment by an eye specialist.”
Screenings typically identify vision issues in about 12% of children examined. According to Craig Phillips, a KidSight volunteer, many children are unaware they have vision problems, as they’ve adapted to the way they see the world.
“The problem you find in schools is that some children have no idea what good vision is because it’s the only vision they’ve ever had,” Phillips said. “If you can’t see what’s going on, it can be terribly frustrating.”
KidSight also offers resources to assist families, including help with obtaining glasses.
“They can help with financing if that’s something a family needs,” Dominquez said. “It makes it easier if they need resources to order glasses.”
By partnering with KidSight, the early childhood center ensures students have access to essential services that support their educational journey. Vision problems, if undetected, can impact a child’s learning and development, Phillips said.
“To be able to go through your education and actually see what’s going on is so important, because everybody’s vision is different,” he said. “You can’t just say, ‘It’s on the board’ or ‘Look in the book’ because that student might not be able to actually see what you do.”
Pattonville Early Childhood Center learner Kayden Betts, left, has his vision screened by KidSight volunteer Craig Phillips, right, while nurse Stepany Dominguez watches.
Pattonville Heights Middle School sixth grader Destini Varela, right, participates in an interactive Constitution Day quiz with classmates Brooklynn Fudge, left, and Lexi Santos.
BRAGGING WRITES
Honors, Awards and Achievements by Pattonville Students and Staff
PATTONVILLE HIGH SCHOOL
Internship Program
Ten students from Pattonville High School were selected to participate in the St. Louis Internship Program (SLIP). During this year-round program, students attend workshops, complete an eight-week internship and receive various industry training. Opportunities also include obtaining college credit, portfolio development and credentialing opportunities like ServSafe and CPR. Students who were selected for this program and completed internships are: Prabhleen Bhullar with Mercy Hospital in patient services; Courtney Fox with the Center of Creative Arts; Julissa Garcia Ortiz with Mercy Hospital in nutrition and culinary administration; Elijah Johnson with the Skilled Trades Exploration
Program (STEP); Zachary Killion with Accenture; Chris Martir-Hernandez with St. Luke’s Hospitals in pulmonary rehab; Simon Muthemba with St. Luke’s Hospitals in outpatient therapy services; Lydia Pan with Mercy Hospital in lab administration; Rhaiza Jane Sebial with St. Luke’s Hospitals in materials distribution; and Asah Wharton with Emerson Electric in enterprise IT. These students were assisted by school counselors Megan Harrison and Rebecca Krohn. SLIP’s mission is to provide hope and opportunity for high school students by ensuring students graduate from high school prepared for college and careers and to create a pipeline of diverse, talented workers for the St. Louis region.
Synagogue Youth Board
Junior Sydney Fowler was elected president of the Congregation B’nai Amoona’s United Synagogue Youth (USY) 2024-2025 executive youth board. Board members of the high school youth program help plan weekly meetings, organize special programming events and attend regional and national USY programs.
Federal Reserve Program
Senior Nmesomachukwu Ezeokafor was accepted into the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis’s Student Board of Directors Program. This program gives St. Louis high school seniors a way to learn about the national central bank and offers a unique opportunity to explore
ALUMNI SUCCESS Graduates in the news
Sarah Cradick, Class of 2016 - Cradick presented research at the American Association of Physicists in Medicine’s Annual Conference in Los Angeles as part of her work toward pursuing a master’s degree in medical physics at Washington University in St. Louis. Her research focuses on improving treatment planning by studying how different systems model the surface of an object and developing a new quality assurance program to verify that the equipment used in treatments is delivering the correct dosage to patients. Cradick earned her bachelor’s degree in physics from Westminster College and played soccer there.
Jasmine Gordon, Class of 2023 - Gordon was named a recipient of the 2024 NCAA Women’s Scholar All-American award by the National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA) as a freshman at Fontbonne University. This award recognizes students at the collegiate level who excel in both academics and athletics. This year, a total of 199 student athletes from 47 institutions across the country were honored.
Gordon
careers in the financial services industry, enhance their financial literacy and receive mentorship from Federal Reserve employees. Participants attend meetings, complete assignments and present about the Federal Reserve at their school.
College Prep Program
Sophomore Samuel Gunawan was accepted into Washington University’s 2024 College Prep Program cohort. This summer, Gunawan was among 37 high school sophomores selected to participate in two weeks of on-campus academic and social programs. The program will continue throughout the participants’ high school careers offering a range of activities such as ACT prep, college trips, attending cultural performances and workshops focused on the college application process.
TRANSPORTATION
MAPT Competition
Pattonville transportation technician Rodney Brown Sr. earned fourth place as an inspector at the annual Missouri’s Best Technician and Inspector Competition, hosted by the Missouri Association for Pupil Transportation (MAPT) on July 11. This written and hands-on training and skills challenge recognizes top school transportation inspectors, technicians and mechanics in the state.
Filing for district school board seats opens Dec. 10
Filing for positions on the Pattonville School District Board of Education begins at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 10, and ends at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 31. Persons interested in running for a position on the school board may file at the Pattonville Learning Center, 11097 St. Charles Rock Road, St. Ann, Missouri. Candidates will be placed on the ballot in order of filing. There are two positions available on the April 8, 2025, election ballot, each with a three-year term. Board members whose terms are expiring are Mary Kay Campbell and Dr. Dan Wentz.
Candidates may file during the district’s regular business hours, which are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. On Dec. 31, filing will be open from 2 p.m. until filing closes at 5 p.m. Hours are subject to change. Except for the first and last day of filing, filing will not occur on days that the school district’s central offices are closed due to inclement weather or other unforeseeable reasons. The district may not open on the first and/or last day of filing if weather conditions make it unsafe for district staff to travel. Filing will also not occur on the following dates when the district’s superintendent’s office is closed for winter break: Dec. 23 through 27 and Dec. 30.
For more information or to confirm if offices are open for filing, contact the secretary to the board at (314) 213-8001 or collinsa10@psdr3.org. For information on qualifications and training requirements, visit our website at www.psdr3.org/about/board-of-education
Pattonville to host Pre-Candidate Forum on Nov.
13
Pattonville will host a Pre-Candidate Forum for those interested in running for a seat on the district’s board of education. The forum is set for 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 13. The forum will be held in person in the Pattonville Learning Center board room and pre-registration is required. Those interested in attending should RSVP by emailing collinsa10@psdr3.org or calling (314) 213-8001 by 1 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 11.
Participants will learn about topics related to serving on a board of education, including what a school board does, characteristics of an effective school board, board relationships and governance, expectations of board members, strategic planning, history of Pattonville ballot issues and school board, time commitments and state-required training.
Rodney Brown Sr.
Ezeokafor
Sydney Fowler
Samuel Gunawan
Students participating in the St. Louis Internship Program (SLIP) are shown with their school counselors Megan Harrison, front row left, and Rebecca Krohn, front row right. Students are, from left, front row, Zachary Killion, Asah Wharton and Julissa Garcia Ortiz; second row, Prabhleen Bhullar and Chris Martir-Hernandez; and, back row, Elijah Johnson and Simon Muthemba.
Jasmine
PATTONVILLE 2024
4-5 | Together Through the Seasons HOMECOMING
Oct.
Parade honors
Award winners during the parade were: the Academy of Innovation at Remington earned the Traveling Trophy for best elementary or middle school float; the high school seniors won the Outstanding Class Float award; Drummond Elementary School received the Outstanding Theme award; the high school Thespian troupe won Pete’s Pick for outstanding student club/organization/sport float; and Willow Brook Elementary School earned the Green and White Award for best community float.
Pattonville Highlights is published throughout the school year for residents of the Pattonville School District by the Pattonville school-community relations department. 11097 St. Charles Rock Road, St. Ann, MO 63074. (314) 213-8025. Website: www.psdr3.org. Email: kgordon@psdr3.org.
Above, seniors Hannah Fisbeck, left, and Ellis North participate in the parade after being selected as homecoming queen and king the night before. Below, during the football game, defensive player junior Tyrice Coleman, left, talks with coach Christian Brinser.
Pattonville’s homecoming parade weaved through a subdivision in Maryland Heights before ending at Pattonville High School. Above, students at the Academy of Innovation at Remington ride on their float in Pattonville’s homecoming parade. Right, Holman Middle School assistant principal Josh Roberts, left, hands candy to three-year-old Elias Manuel at the start of the parade.
Above left, drill team members sophomore Zariyah Rice, left, and freshman Aubrey Kirk perform during the homecoming football game. Above middle, members of the sophomore class ride in a fall-themed float during the homecoming parade. Above right, members of the marching band and the color guard perform their halftime show themed after Amelia Earhart. Right, Bridgeway Elementary School paraprofessional and this year’s Support Staff Employee of the Year, Ana Garofalo, rides in the parade.
Above, members of the student section at the homecoming football game hype the crowd. Left, the Pattonville Board of Education participate in the homecoming parade. Shown are, from left, treasurer Lisa Kickbusch, president Mary Kay Campbell and student representative senior Rylie Faasen.