Highlights Pattonville A top-tier district in Missouri and the U.S.
School news for parents, residents and staff of the Pattonville School District
February 2020
Inside
2020 Kindergarten registration set for March 3-5 - See page 4 for details
Five candidates file for election to board of education
- See back page for details
Winter Reading Monthly celebrations make reading fun
BOARD OF EDUCATION
Read Across America Day, also known as Dr. Seuss Day, is a yearly observance in the United States that was inaugurated by the National Education Association (NEA). It is held on the school day that is nearest to March 2, Dr. Seuss’ birthday. But rather than just a day of celebrating reading in March, Drummond Elementary School organizes monthly celebrations throughout the entire year. For January, the theme was “Hibernation” and students were invited to wear their pajamas to school on Jan. 15 when classes read nonfiction books about winter and animals that hibernate. In the library, the bookshelves were decorated like a cave and students used flashlights to search for books to check out. Shown above, Jeffrey Bresnahan, left, and Kaleyah Harris use their flashlights to search for a good book at the library. At left, Liam Burnett, left, and Esdras Escalante, peruse the shelves with their flashlights. All are students in Amber Callahan’s kindergarten class.
Andrea Glenn, President Dr. Brian Gray, Vice President Mindy Ridings, Secretary Mary Kay Campbell, Treasurer Ruth Petrov, Director Dr. Amanda Lienau Purnell, Director Jeanne Schottmueller, Director Dr. Tim Pecoraro Superintendent
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Pattonville School District 11097 St. Charles Rock Road St. Ann, MO 63074-1509
Our Mission That ALL will learn.
Non-Profit U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 1 St. Ann, MO
Pattonville is an awardwinning 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.
From the Superintendent
Pattonville plan focuses on personalized learning, socialemotional learning, future planning T
he holiday season has passed and winter is in full swing. This is not an easy time of year. Cloudy days and cold weather seem to repeat themselves on a regular basis. As we pass the midpoint of the school year, I thought it would be a good time to take stock in how we’re progressing on our Comprehensive School Improvement Plan Dr. Tim Pecoraro (CSIP). As a reminder, our CSIP is updated Superintendent every five years and guides everything we Follow on Twitter: do as a school district. There are three main @PattonvilleSupt components in our current strategic plan: personalized learning, social-emotional learning and planning for the future. I’ve written about personalized learning in the past and we continue to make strides to ensure students have opportunities to advance in their learning by demonstrating mastery of important concepts and skills (competencies) through customization when appropriate. This takes on different looks depending on the age of students and the content being taught, but could include the following: the time it takes students to master the subject matter; teacher’s instructional practices; and creating different learning environments to better meet the needs of students. As we progress in our work, one thing hasn’t changed - our expectations for students. The “Pattonville Standard” is rigorous and is the backbone to the outstanding academic results we’ve achieved over the years. Personalized learning doesn’t change our standards. It helps us become more focused to make certain ALL of our students can and will reach them. The second area of focus is social-emotional learning. Each year in schools across the country, more students are entering classrooms in need of mental health support. In Pattonville, we have amazing staff members who work diligently with students and families to provide assistance. This trend is not going to decrease in the near future, so providing training to staff, working with community organizations and building strong relationships with families is key. We have more staff members focused on this work than ever before and we’ll continue to develop strategies aimed at supporting our students. The final focus area of the CSIP is planning for the future. Organizations must always look ahead to make certain they are prepared for what’s to come. As construction work from our previous no tax rate increase bond issue wraps up, we’ve already begun to update our master facilities plan for possible future improvements. This is a multi-year process and is one of the ways we make certain our facilities remain top-notch and in optimal condition. Enrollment in our district is increasing as well. For many years, we’ve hovered around 5,700 students. The past few years, we’ve had an increase of students, and this year we’ve exceeded 5,900 students district-wide. Pattonville’s great reputation along with our outstanding community have no doubt played a role in more families moving into the area. As part of our long-term planning, we’re looking at space needs throughout the district to ensure our schools have the room they need in case our enrollment continues to rise. Having a strategic plan has many purposes, but none more important than keeping everyone focused on the same goals which are embedded around success for our students. Effective planning, led by our board of education, has been a Pattonville strength for decades. I look forward to sharing our continued progress in the months ahead.
Entire crew of transportation drivers complete training, earn safety certification All 47 school bus drivers in Pattonville were certified in the Smith System this year. The Smith System is recognized as the industry leader in professional CDL (commercial drivers license) driver training, hands-on vehicle safety education programs and defensive driving. More than half of Fortune 500 fleets use Smith System for driver safety training. “The Smith System is a great program that hones the skills a driver already has,” director of transportation James Troxel said. “The transportation department’s No. 1 priority is safety.”
Pattonville’s transportation employees are shown after earning safety training certification with the Smith System driver training program.
BOARD PROFILE: Dr. Amanda Lienau Purnell
Director brings variety of perspectives to role on board B
oard director Dr. Amanda Lienau Purnell and her husband, Jason, are Purnell felt her personal and the parents of two Pattonville students. professional background would She volunteers for parent-teacher provide valuable perspectives when organizations at Rose Acres and Willow she took to heart friends’ suggestions Brook elementary schools, as well as “We that she serve on the Pattonville Board Stories,” a family-centered racial justice of Education. organization. In her free time, she also “I had never thought of serving on A. Lienau Purnell likes to run, practice yoga and mindfulness, a school board or any other elected read (both print and audiobooks) and office,” she said. “I enjoyed volunteering at learn. Purnell said people might be surprised to the elementary school my children attended. I know she grew up on a farm in rural Ohio that was am so deeply grateful for the people who have homesteaded by her family in 1852. supported my family in the school, and I like “I was part of the first generation in my family looking at the big picture. I thought I could add to attend college and the first to attend graduate a valuable perspective from my own personal school,” she said. She earned a bachelor’s degree experience. I am part of a multiracial family, I from the University of Dayton and a doctorate have a child with special needs and a child who is degree in counseling psychology from The Ohio part of the gifted program. I am a psychologist by State University. Purnell was elected to the board training and have attended many years of school, in April 2018. One of her favorite parts of serving so I’m experienced at ‘school.’ ” on the board is being involved in BSAAC (Board As a board member serving Pattonville Student Administration Action Committee), children, Purnell hopes “each and every child is a group of approximately 35 high school able to feel supported and empowered to stretch students, board members and district and high to their own best self. I hope that each child walks school administrators. The committee provides into school and knows someone cares about them opportunities for students to interact with board at that school and believes in their potential.” members and administrators to discuss what’s Purnell is employed as the senior innovation working at their school, current challenges and fellow for the Veterans Health Administration school improvement ideas. (VHA) Innovation Ecosystem and the innovation “They presented at MSBA (Missouri School lead at the VA St. Louis HealthCare System. Boards’ Association) in September and the “My job entails helping teams of people students and Ms. (Lori) Cole were phenomenal,” test out new ideas and spread best practices she said. “I’m so impressed with the maturity and across the health care system,” she said. “I lead engagement in our students.” trainings in design thinking and other innovation “I feel so fortunate to serve on the board. I competencies here in St. Louis and across the am so proud of people who make Pattonville the country.” school district it is,” Purnell said.
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Calendars for next two school years approved by Pattonville school board T
he Pattonville Board of Education on Jan. 28 approved calendars which outline important dates for the next two school years and comply with a new state law governing school start dates. The first day of classes for the upcoming school year is Aug. 24. Other important dates for the next two school years are listed at right, along with a link to printable draft calendars. The calendars for the 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 school years were drafted by Pattonville’s calendar committee, which included parent, student, teacher, support staff, board member and administrator representatives. A major factor in developing the calendars was complying with a state law that went into effect last fall. House Bill 604 prohibits school districts from setting the first day of school more than 14 calendar days prior to the first Monday in September (Labor Day). When developing Pattonville’s new calendars, the calendar committee focused on improving student achievement and took into consideration survey feedback from parents, students and staff. Other factors included family and staff considerations, professional development needs and holidays/special events. Key features of the new calendars include: • Fewer early dismissal days at all grade levels (including high school “C” days); • Ending first semester and high school finals before winter break; • All grade levels resuming classes on the same day after winter break; • Make-up days for inclement weather or other emergencies being added to the end of the calendar, to be used as needed; and • Adjustments to some school hours to comply with state requirements (see information at right). Pattonville is adjusting operation times for the school day beginning next year in order to meet state requirements for hours of instruction in a school year, complete first semester prior to winter break and allow adequate time for bus routes. The length of the school day will remain the same for all levels, except high school, which will have five minutes added to the end of each day to meet the required number of minutes. Start times for elementary and middle school are being adjusted for transportation purposes. Start and end times for each level for next year are also shown at right.
2020-2021 SCHOOL YEAR Aug. 24 - First day of school Sept. 25-26 - Pattonville Homecoming Nov. 3 - No school for Election Day Nov. 25-27 - No school for Thanksgiving break Dec. 23 - Jan. 3 - No school for winter break Jan. 4 - No school for collaboration day Jan. 5 - School resumes after winter break March 22-26 - No school for spring break April 2 - No school for spring holiday May 27 - Last day of school for Grades K-11 (subject to change due to snow days - see below) May 28 - Possible make-up day June 1-7 - Possible make-up days June 3 - Graduation
2021-2022 SCHOOL YEAR Aug. 23 - First day of school Nov. 24-26 - No school for Thanksgiving break Dec. 23 - Jan. 2 - No school for winter break Jan. 3 - No school for collaboration day Jan. 4 - School resumes after winter break March 21-25 - No school for spring break April 15 - No school for spring holiday May 24 - Last day of school for Grades K-11 (subject to change due to snow days - see below) May 25-27 - Possible make-up days May 31 - Possible make-up day June 1-2 - Possible make-up days June 2 - Graduation
SCHOOL HOURS
Effective with 2020-2021 School Year
Preschool (No change)
Full Day: 8:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Half Day (morning): 8:15 to 11:15 a.m. Half Day (afternoon): 12:15 to 3:15 p.m.
Elementary schools 8:55 a.m. to 3:40 p.m.
Remington Traditional School 8:05 a.m. to 2:55 p.m.
Holman and Pattonville Heights middle schools 8:10 a.m. to 3:03 p.m.
Pattonville High School
7:23 a.m. to 2:18 p.m. (“C” days will be from 7:23 a.m. to 1:19 p.m.)
DOWNLOAD FULL-YEAR CALENDARS Find more information and printable calendars for the next two school years at bit.ly/PSDcalendars2020-2022
MAKE-UP DAYS AND SUMMER SCHOOL
May 28 and June 1 through 7 are designated as possible make-up days in the 2020-2021 school year should the district need to cancel school for inclement weather or other emergencies; and May 25 through 27, May 31 and June 1 and 2 are designated as possible make-up days in the 2021-2022 school year. A make-up day will be used each time a regularly scheduled student attendance day is canceled due to inclement weather or other emergency. High school finals, the last day of student attendance and staff report day will be adjusted accordingly for each make-up day used at the end of the school year. All school calendars are subject to change to be in compliance with state law, including the required number of emergency days and the agreed upon number of contracted days for staff. Summer school dates are dependent on the number of emergency days used during the regular school year and are subject to change.
Pattonville to award honorary diplomas to veterans who entered military before graduation F
or the 18th year in a row, Pattonville will reserve time during graduation to award honorary high school diplomas to veterans who left high school before graduation to serve in the United States military during foreign conflicts. The ceremony will take place during the Pattonville High School commencement, slated for 7 p.m., Thursday, June 4, at the Family Arena in St. Charles. Since 2002, Pattonville has awarded more than 100 honorary diplomas to veterans of World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm through Missouri’s “Operation Recognition” program. The program is open to any veteran who is a resident or former resident of Missouri. Family
members may apply on behalf of a deceased veteran. An application to receive a diploma may be downloaded at bit.ly/PSDveterandiploma20. The deadline to return applications to the Pattonville School District in order to participate in this year’s graduation ceremony is Friday, March 6. Diplomas may also be sent directly to the veteran if the person chooses not to participate in the graduation ceremony. A copy of the veteran’s honorable discharge papers or DD-214 is required to be submitted along with the application. The Missouri Veterans Commission will verify that an applicant is eligible to receive the diploma. For more information, call the Pattonville school-community relations office at (314) 213-8025.
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KINDERGARTEN Registration for 2020-2021 School Year
Welcome!
We’re looking forward to teaching your little one. Here’s what to bring to get your child registered: Birth Certificate - If you do not have a birth
certificate prior to the time your child begins school, you may call (866) 225-2072 (county) or (314) 6133016 (city) to request a birth certificate.
Proof of Residency -
1) Mortgage statement dated within the last 30 days, 2019 paid real estate tax receipt and/or dated signed lease. and 2) Two monthly utility bills, dated within the last 30 days; if you reside with someone else, please contact the student services office at (314) 213-8090 regarding residency verification forms. For more details, go online at www.psdr3.org/enrollment.
Immunization Record - Missouri law
requires immunization of school children against polio, diphtheria, rubella, measles, mumps and other illnesses. Immunizations are available through the St. Louis County Health Department (www.stlouisco.com/ Healthandwellness) or your child’s doctor. All students must meet immunization requirements before they may attend school.
Register your child March 3-5, 2020
How to Register
1. Registration will be held in the student services office at the Pattonville Learning Center, 11097 St. Charles Rock Road in St. Ann during the following dates and times: • 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, March 3, 4 and 5 • 4:30 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday, March 3 and 5 2. Registration is by appointment only. To schedule an appointment: • Visit timetosignup.com/psdr3 to schedule an enrollment appointment. • Arrive 10 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment with proper documents (see list at left). 3. Prior to your appointment, complete your child’s online registration at bit.ly/RegisterNowforPattonville.
Who Registers?
All children attending kindergarten in the 2020-2021 school year must register. Children must be 5 years old on or before July 31, 2020, to enroll. Early childhood students entering kindergarten still need to register.
Bring Your Future Kindergartner Bring your kindergartner to your registration appointment on March 3 through 5 to enjoy our kindergarten photo booth and refreshments.
Screenings
For a free kindergarten screening, go online to ec.psdr3.org and click on the “Screenings” tab.
Registrations after March 5
Registration after March 5 will take place by appointment only. To sign up for an appointment, go online at timetosignup.com/psdr3.
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What School Will My Child Attend? If you are unsure which school your child will attend, go online at www.psdr3.org/map and click on “Find My School” under Bus Routes. You can insert your child’s grade (kindergarten) and your address to find your neighborhood school.
Remington Traditional School
Enrollment for Remington Traditional School, a K-8 school in Pattonville, is a lottery-based system. Parents interested in the lottery drawing should enroll in their home school first and then turn in an application for the lottery. Applications are available in Remington’s school office or online at remington.psdr3.org. They are due back to Remington by April 1. The lottery will take place on April 7. For more information, call Remington at (314) 213-8016.
School Starts
Classes for the 2020-2021 school year begin Aug. 24.
Our Learners Spotlight on
News focusing on students, staff and schools in Pattonville
BRIDGEWAY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
ROSE ACRES ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
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with creative advocacy project
Business ventures teach economics and more Students earn $10,000 grant hen the fifth grade teachers at Bridgeway Elementary School tell their students to get back to work, they mean business. Bridgeway fifth graders started project-based learning (PBL) activities as an educational exercise with an end goal of helping raise money for fifth grade camp. They have started several businesses including ones called A Latte Coffee and Million Dollar Yards. “This year we wanted to do something a little bit different to teach economics and helping them (students) understand how money flows throughout an economy,” fifth grade teacher Allison O’very said. The students created 10 different businesses to raise money to pay for fifth grade camp, which typically costs about $100 to $125 per student. “We learned a lot about project-based learning, and so we’re really trying to incorporate it into our classrooms and a large part of that is making projects and experiences for our students that are authentic,” fifth grade teacher Emily Lerman said. “We thought that it would be a great way for them to take some ownership by creating their own businesses.” To provide a service to the school community, group members of A Latte Coffee took on the role of baristas and served coffee and hot chocolate twice a day to teachers who purchased a 12-ounce beverage. Each drink was $2.50 and could be customized with options provided on an order form. “So far we’ve earned a little more than $100,” fifth grader Francisco Mendez Sicaju said. “It’s gone pretty well because we’ve worked together and it’s fun working with friends and making friends.” The leaf-raking company
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Above, fifth graders Kameron Kinney, left, and Isabelle Morrow rake leaves as part of their Million Dollar Yards business. Teacher Emily Lerman, right, assists by holding a bag open for them. Below, from left, Brandon Swedlund, Francisco Mendez Sicaju and Ean Harbin prepare beverages for teachers as part of their A Latte Coffee business as teacher Allison O’very looks on.
named Million Dollar Yards stayed after school several times in November to work in yards throughout the neighborhood. They charged $10 to clean the front yard and $18 to do both the front and backyards. “We came up with the name and the logo, and then came up with a script,” Kameron Kinney said between gasps as he worked in a yard after school. “I helped make the flyer to post around the neighborhoods.” O’very said any profits that the students make with their businesses after they repay seed money will then go toward the funds for fifth grade camp. “Every business is going to bring it together as a pool, but at the very end of all these businesses, each group will get to see what sliver of the amount their business contributed. We needed just over $8,000 to send all of our fifth graders to camp,” she said. “That will again give them a lot of ownership and hopefully they can take a lot of pride that they did this themselves.” Fifth grader Brandon Swedlund said he has never
experienced a learning opportunity like this before, and hopes his customers were satisfied. “I wanted them to see this could actually be like a business that kind of works the same as an adult’s could work.” O’very said the kids were excited about this experience. “It’s been a lot of work behind the scenes for both the students and us at times, but in the end, it’s been really worth it and paid off because they’re really taking ownership,” she said. “They’re really understanding the value of money, and that I don’t just get money to buy things. I have to really analyze what’s necessary, what’s a need for me in this business and then taking the time to look at what’s going to make us money and what’s not.” The students will attend fifth grade camp in the spring.
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greenhouse and hydroponic garden wall are coming to Rose Acres Elementary School thanks to a $10,000 grant. Students in the Program for Exceptionally Gifted Students (PEGS), with support from their teacher Robin Chang, wrote the grant as part of the Super Health, Super You Challenge created by Novo Nordisk, a multinational pharmaceutical company devoted to defeating diabetes. The PEGS students brainstormed ways to make a difference via social action and community problem solving. Chang then found the grant program and the students were immediately inspired by the possibility of being able to take action to promote healthy living in their community. The cause that really stuck out to them was helping people eat healthy food, something they could share with other students in their school. In thinking of ways to get the word out, the idea of getting their hands dirty and seeing where food comes from and even growing it themselves - seemed more and more like the best way to educate their schoolmates. The students are looking forward to learning about lifecycles, bioscience and what plants they can grow throughout the year, and then sharing this information with their school. In addition to being educational, the greenhouse and garden could also provide new flavors for their schoolmates to experience. The greenhouse will be located in the front of the school, but they are still deciding on a location for the hydroponic wall. They hope to have both completed by the end of the school year. As word got out about the greenhouse, other students began discussing ways to add to the project. Students in the after-school K-Kids club, a group that seeks ways to make a difference in their school and community, are collecting waste cartons from the cafeteria to use for potting plants. The students also hope teachers will have a hand in planting and growing and will give their students the opportunity to visit the greenhouse as part of the science curriculum. “The students are so surprised and thrilled with the possibilities that lay ahead,” Chang said. “What started off as a fun brainstorming project about making a difference and being ‘heroes’ is turning into a real-life social action plan. This plan will require a lot of support, but that’s what our Rose Acres community of leaders is about. We can’t wait for the next step and are ready for action!”
From left third graders Eva Pulley and Aliyah Brown work with teacher Robin Chang on their greenhouse project. Students DJ Hopson, left, and Levi Dukes are shown seated in the back.
PATTONVILLE EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER
DRUMMOND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Registration open for 2020-2021 school year Continued from front page ... T
he early years of a child’s life are pivotal years for growth and development. Now is the time to start your child’s love of learning by enrolling in the preschool at the Pattonville Early Childhood Center (shown above). Pattonville offers a full-day program with extended-care options, as well as half-day programs. Children must be 3 years old by July 31 in order to attend preschool classes. Tuition rates, documents needed for enrollment and more information can be found on the early childhood website at ec.psdr3.org. Updated tuition rates will be released in July. Families can also sign up for a free development screening for their preschooler. Parents interested in an evaluation that includes health and developmental progress for children ages 3 1/2 and older should visit the early childhood website listed above and click on the “Screening” tab to sign up. For more information or to enroll, call (314) 213-8100 or download the preschool registration flyer at bit.ly/PSDpreschoolenroll2020.
PARKWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
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e read a book to students about a bear who hibernates and whose friend is going to miss him while he’s gone,” library technology specialist Tammi Buckner said. “It was a perfect tie-in to the hibernation theme.” After reading the book while sitting in a circle, students grabbed their flashlights and went spelunking for books they wanted to check out. Buckner along with paraprofessional Tracy Cook (shown above reading to students) found the idea to decorate the bookshelves like a cave on Pinterest. “We just brought in our blankets from home and created it,” she said. “We added the flashlights because we thought that it was going to be really dark under there and they had to have some way to find their books so we just bought these little flashlights off Amazon and they loved it.” Kindergartner Liam Burnett picked the book “Suppose You Meet a Dinosaur” while wearing his dinosaur pajamas. “It was awesome and super cool,” he said. “I had to use my flashlight because the cave was really dark and I loved it.”
WILLOW BROOK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
First grade math gets personal approach
New library key to Reading Month celebration W A pplause erupted among third graders when author Tracey West appeared on screen in Parkwood Elementary School’s new library (shown above). West was one of four authors who visited students at Parkwood via Skype in January. The conversations were part of the school’s annual Reading Month, an event Parkwood has hosted for about 20 years, which culminates with the book fair. This year was extra special because, with the newly built library, this was the first time the book fair fit entirely in the library. For Reading Month, each student received a calendar with Reading Month events, which they could trade in at the end of the month for a free book at the book fair. In addition to the book fair, Parkwood hosted a breakfast with GRANDS (special friends) and a pancake dinner. One week, students competed in a coin challenge, where they brought in different coins each day of the week. The three classes collecting the most money earned an extra recess. The money raised goes to two national non-profit organizations that help families in need. Scholastic Book Fairs matched the funds raised and donated money to purchase books for Parkwood’s classrooms. Another week featured spirit days, including Crazy About Reading Day, which allowed students to wear fun socks, and Cozy Up With a Friend Day, in which students could bring a stuffed animal to school.
illow Brook Elementary School first graders are finding creative ways to learn how to add and subtract to 20. Whether it be counting the dots on dominos, completing worksheets, discussing word games, watching videos or playing a math game with a friend, students were able to pick an activity that would help them learn the skill best (shown above with Vivian Forst, left, and Ominakhon Tillakhujaeva). By choosing their own learning methods, Jamie Cargal and Penney Smith’s students are taking control of their math education. The idea of letting students guide their learning with teacher support is part of Pattonville’s personalized learning emphasis. For this unit, Cargal and Smith used “I Can” statements from the state learning standards which correlate with the school’s math curriculum and rewrote them in age-appropriate language for students. The teachers gathered and created games, activities, teaching sheets, manipulatives and multimedia for each statement. Each student could pick activities that would help them best learn the content based on their own unique learning styles. They could choose to work independently or with a partner or group. Cargal and Smith helped facilitate learning by working with individuals or groups and, before math time was over, checked with each student on comprehension and mastery of the material. The learning method was so successful the teachers will use a similar process on the next unit, graphing.
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REMINGTON TRADITIONAL SCHOOL
HOLMAN MIDDLE SCHOOL
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Students, staff highlight books via podcast
Day of themed lessons builds excitement
tudents weren’t able to sit still during class on Jan. 16 at Remington Traditional School and it was all part of the plan during their second Rock Your School event. Students and staff dressed as athletes and participated in sports-themed lessons. The professional development company Get Your Teach On encourages educators to create outside-of-thebox experiences for students during a Rock Your School event. “They challenge teachers to create high rigor, high engagement lessons,” second grade teacher Taylor Koenig said. Earlier in the year, the school organized a pirate-themed event to connect to Pattonville’s homecoming. “We were motivated to do it again just because the last one was such a success,” first grade teacher Allison Grigone said. “I’ve never seen kids so excited to come to school.” Students rotated classes for different lessons. “It was fun, but the emphasis was that this is required content for the students,” Koenig said. “It’s not like a play day or anything like that. It’s just making something that you have to do really fun.” The sportsthemed lessons ranged from baseball, football, wrestling, horseback riding and volleyball (shown above). Wearing a Missouri Gators baseball uniform, fifth grader Braylon Cook said his favorite lesson of the day involved his favorite sport. “After getting a math question right, we got the chance to throw or hit a baseball against the board to move our runners around the bases,” he said. “It was a lot of fun and our team won by scoring the most runs.”
alking to teens about books drives interest in reading, so Holman Middle School library media special Diana Rasmussen decided to take the book talk concept to the next level by creating the Holman Library Podcast. “I wanted to do something to help kids find books they would like and book talking is very effective,” she said. “Whenever I book talk to kids, the book is usually fought over. I book talk all day with students so I thought at one point, why not record book talks on some of my favorite books?” For over a year, Rasmussen recorded and posted the podcasts to the library website, highlighting middle grade and young adult novels. This winter, she added student voices to the mix, inviting students to record their recommendations. Sixth graders Kijah Chamberlain (above right) and Chelsea Evans (above left) recorded the first student podcast, highlighting “The War That Saved My Life” by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley, a historical fiction book they both read and enjoyed. Both listen to podcasts in their spare time, so the book podcast drew their interest. “I think it’s a good idea to get more people interested in books because sometimes reading the back of the book isn’t always as exciting,” Evans said. “Sometimes you might not be able to eyeball a book out of the library,” Chamberlain agreed. Podcast episodes are posted to Holman’s Facebook page or can be found online at holmanlibrary.podbean.com.
PATTONVILLE HIGH SCHOOL
Students collaborate with mentors on solution
PATTONVILLE HEIGHTS MIDDLE SCHOOL
After-school clubs support student learning P
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articipation in clubs and activities helps students at Pattonville Heights Middle School develop a sense of camaraderie and make friendships based on common interests. Students are encouraged to get involved and have fun while they learn new skills in more than 15 different offerings. “I like the fact that it can help with their interests,” said Naturalist Club sponsor Terri Sallee (shown above with, from left, Ayla Thomas, Ayda Wallace and Kayleigh Shirley). “It’s not just all study, study, study, but it’s things that they want to do.” An after-school activity fee of $20 makes students eligible to participate in any club they choose. Clubs meet after school on Tuesdays through Thursdays for an hour. Homework Club and Math Tutoring are offered daily, but weekly activities include Electronic Gaming Club, Leaping Lizards and Naturalist Club. “I do have a lot of fun in this club,” eighth grader Gabriel Taylor said about the Electronic Gaming Club. “It’s a lot more fun than if I just went home and played some Super Smash Bros. on my own Switch.” Being a part of the club makes coming to school worth it for Taylor. “I do enjoy coming to school on Tuesdays and Thursdays before I get to stay after school for this,” he said. “It’s basically when I have my most fun at school.” Sixth grader Nathalia Vargas stays after school for Homework Club. “It gives me extra time to finish it instead of doing it at home when I’m busy.” She is able to get extra help from teachers and classmates. “I’ve actually seen my scores improve a lot by coming here.” For more information, visit ht.psdr3.org/afterschoolactivities.
omputer science students from Pattonville High School are competing in World Wide Technology’s (WWT) annual Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Student Forum Hackathon. After attending the kickoff event on Jan. 16 at WWT’s global headquarters in Maryland Heights, the students began working with mentors to develop and build a new technology in just five weeks. Students are challenged to build a product that will help their school. Pattonville’s team consists of students Eli Card, Galen Gilmore, Van Grabner, Tajh Martin, Alex Morschl, Grace Ohlsen, William Skaggs and Kyle Wright. Teacher Jeremiah Simmons said the school has participated in the program for several years and it’s a great opportunity. “The students get to go to WWT and interact with professionals,” he said. “It’s awesome to be able to work with industry professionals and get a sense of what it’s like to work in the industry.” For their product, the students decided to build a portal for extended learning opportunities (ELO) at the high school. “We’re creating a central website for students and businesses to access extended learning opportunities,” Card said. “The idea is that a business would be able to create jobs for students to complete, and students will be able to list their skills and resumes and apply for those jobs. A counselor will be able to review those opportunities to see if they can give high school credit for the jobs that students are completing.” WWT employees meet weekly with the students to work on their project (shown above). “There is this surreal feeling being a part of all of this because there’s all these professionals and people that work on this type of stuff that actually makes a difference in the world,” Morschl said. Last year, Pattonville won the competition and was awarded a $10,000 first place prize.
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BRAGGING WRITES
Honors, Awards and Achievements by Pattonville Students and Staff
DRUMMOND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
HOLMAN MIDDLE SCHOOL
Carla Robertson, a counselor at Drummond Elementary School, earned the inaugural Robertson Award from the St. Ann Police Department. The award, which is named after Robertson, recognizes community members for service and community relations that better the lives of the youth of St. Ann.
Eighth grader Peter McCullough and seventh grader Sheridan Phillips were selected to the All-Suburban Honor Band. They are taught by band teachers Adam Hall and Steven White.
Inaugural Robertson Award
All-Suburban Honor Band
Carla Robertson Students recognized in the 100 Neediest Cases art contest included, from left, Anna Kasprzyk, Andrew Murphy, Nicholas Davis and Eliana Johnson.
families during the holidays, with the Post-Dispatch highlighting 100 to raise awareness and encourage donations for thousands of needy families. The honored art students are taught by Beth Kathriner. Orchestra honorees include, from left, Ethan Arana, Sydney Hoynacki, Mia Baczynski and Maxwell Fetter.
All-Suburban Honor Orchestra
Holman students selected for the All-Suburban Honor Orchestra were Ethan Arana, Mia Baczynski, Marcia Battiest, Maxwell Fetter and Sydney Hoynacki. Irena Goren-Sheer is their orchestra teacher. Honored writers were, from left, front row, Eli Dukes, Harry VanDernoot and Alexis Burroughs. Their teachers are shown in the back row, from left, Tracey Robinson and Robin Chang.
ROSE ACRES ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
St. Louis Writers Guild Contest
Three students in Program for Exceptionally Gifted Students (PEGS) were awarded a Mention in the St. Louis Writers Guild Young Writers Contest. Fourth grader Harry VanDernoot and fifth graders Alexis Burroughs and Eli Dukes were invited to the guild’s awards presentation on Dec. 7 and their work has been published in an anthology by the St. Louis Writers Guild that is available on Amazon. Robin Chang and Tracey Robinson are their teachers.
3M Young Scientist Challenge finalist
Joey Granillo, a sixth-grader in the Program for Exceptionally Gifted Students (PEGS) program at Rose Acres, was selected as one of 10 national finalists in the 2019 3M Young Scientist Challenge competition. Granillo’s project, which started as a science fair project last school year, focused on Joey Granillo a way to capture all yearly carbon emissions. As a finalist, Granillo was invited to travel to Minneapolis to give a presentation and complete additional challenges. He is taught by Robin Chang and Tracey Robinson.
REMINGTON TRADITIONAL SCHOOL All-Suburban Jazz Band
Eighth grader Kyle Manker was selected as the lead alto saxophone for the All-Suburban Jazz Band. Andrew Smith is his band teacher.
PATTONVILLE HEIGHTS MIDDLE SCHOOL All-Suburban Honor Band
Seventh grader Emily Derhake was selected to the AllSuburban Honor Band. Abby Hall and Elizabeth Pace teach band at Pattonville Heights.
PATTONVILLE HIGH SCHOOL
Webster University photography exhibit Seniors Jack Goetz and Tiana Knight were selected to have photographs on display at the Webster University May Gallery as part of the 2019 High School Exhibition. Art was selected by a jury of Webster photography professors and was on display through Dec. 20. They are taught by Kelli Dornfeld.
Jack Goetz, left, and Tiana Knight had photos chosen for exhibit.
100 Neediest Cases Art Contest
Eight students from Pattonville High School submitted artwork to the 100 Neediest Cases art contest sponsored by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and United Way. Art by Anna Kasprzyk was selected to be among the top 40 entries and appeared in the Post-Dispatch print and online editions. In addition, Anya Carroll, Nicolas Davis, Eliana Johnson, Andrew Murphy, Nala Scott, Claire Willhite and Jaden Williams had artwork on display at the Missouri History Museum as part of the 100 Neediest Cases program. The Neediest Cases campaign has helped thousands of disadvantaged
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Members of the varsity cheerleading team that placed second at state include, from left, front row, Alliah Allen, Sofia Serra and Amaya Washington; and back row, Hannah Rodgers, Peyton Smith and Camari Riley.
State cheerleading competition
Pattonville’s varsity cheerleading team placed second out of 14 in the state competition and six students were named an All-State Champion. Those students are Alliah Allen, Camari Riley, Hannah Rodgers, Sofia Serra, Peyton Smith and Amaya Washington. Additional students who were part of the secondplace cheerleading team are Amonnie Carter, Jordyn Hammett, Tymani Jones, Chloe Mahrt, Nicole McDaniel, Tori Miniex, Skylar Monnig, Mi Joi Swaby, Emilia Vaitulevicius, Mya Washington and Kathryn Wentz. They are coached by Kalli Hunt and Freddy Shatto.
Volleyball conference honors
In girls volleyball, Keeley Peters, Samantha Schuler, who was also named Conference MVP, and McKenzie Seagraves were named All-Conference First Team. Kelsey Mack received the All Sportsmanship Award. They were coached by Kyle Walsh, who was named Conference Coach of the McKenzie Seagraves Year. Assistant coaches were Carrie Gausling, Alexa Kramer and Paige Mueller.
BRAGGING WRITES
Honors, Awards and Achievements by Pattonville Students and Staff Lindenwood Fashion Show Senior Jordyn Rice placed second at the Lindenwood University High School Fashion Show for a dress she designed. The piece was an original garment she created in her fashion design class at North Tech High School. Students from Mary Favazza’s Advanced Clothing and Textiles class at Pattonville High School, in which Rice is also enrolled, attended the show.
Coaches Kyle Hall, left, and Margaret Hall, right, are shown with cross country honorees Keilah Wilkes, left, and Lucy Ndungu.
State cross country
Three students qualified for the state cross country meet and two were named All-State. Lucy Ndungu placed seventh at state and was named All-Conference First Team. Keilah Wilkes placed 25th at state and was named All-Conference Second Team. Camryn Hubbard also qualified for state. They were coached by Margaret Hall with the assistance of Kyle Hall.
State golf
Momo Kikuchi was named a state qualifier and Suburban Conference Player of the Year in the green division. Additionally, Haley Swift was named AllConference Honorable Mention. They were coached by David Gross with the assistance of Scott Hutson.
Swimming and diving honorees included, from left, front row, Christopher Tobar and Philip Tso; and back row, Wyatt Martin, Kyle Hubbs, Chaska Cox Potter, Isaac Reddy and Isaiah Loparco.
State swimming and diving
Eight members of Pattonville’s swimming and diving team advanced to the state competition. The following students placed 10th at state in the 200 yard medley relay and were state qualifiers in the 400 yard free relay: Chaska Cox Potter, who also placed 8th in the 100 yard breaststroke at state and was a state qualifier in the 200 individual medley; Wyatt Martin, who also placed 17th in the 100 yard breaststroke at state and was a state qualifier in the 200 individual medley; Christopher Tobar, who was also part of the group that placed 28th in the 200 yard free relay; and Philip Tso, who also placed 15th in the 100 yard butterfly and 26th in the 100 yard backstroke at state. Isaiah Loparco, Nathan Moser and Isaac Reddy placed 28th in the 200 yard free relay. Kyle Hubbs placed 14th at state in 1 meter diving. Anna Braswell was their coach.
Jordyn Rice
The district soccer championship team includes, from left, front row, Imran Alvi, Nicolas Derleth, Nathan Mashburn, William Basta, Kyle Campbell, Alexander Knight and Benjamin Morlen; and back row, Gavin Alicea, Thomas McFarland, Daniel Enberg, Johnathan Lewis, Matthew Samuel, Gabriel Furr and coach Marcus Christian.
District soccer champions
The Pattonville soccer team won the district championship. Nicolas Derleth was named AllConference First Team, and Nathan Mashburn and Benjamin Morlen were named All-Conference Second Team. Additional members of the championship soccer team were Gavin Alicea, Imran Alvi, William Basta, Kyle Campbell, Alex Djetto, Daniel Enberg, Gabriel Furr, Devin Holtzclaw, Alexander Knight, Johnathan Lewis, Thomas McFarland, Miguel Perez, Matthew Samuel and Grant Wedig. They were coached by Marcus Christian with the assistance of Tomi Benney.
District softball championship team members are shown with coach Rob Simpson (back row, right). They are, from left, front row, Isabelle Usry, Maddie Bailey, Madison Leckrone and Tatum Wilson; and back row, Julia Blankenship, Jo Medley O’Brien, Maria Madden, Chloe Shamel, Jade Wooten and Sam Heine.
District softball champions
Pattonville’s softball team won the district championship, the first time the team has earned this honor since 1998. In addition, Maddie Bailey was named All-Conference First Team. Sam Heine, Madison Leckrone, Jo Medley O’Brien and Chloe Shamel were named All-Conference Second Team. Jade Wooten was named All-Conference Honorable Mention. Allison Schrumpf received the AllConference Sportsmanship Award. Additional members of the team were Julia Blankenship, Samantha Green, Maria Madden, Isabelle Usry, Rosie Vishy and Tatum Wilson. They were coached by Rob Simpson with the assistance of Andrea Eagle.
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Field hockey players earning honors included, from left, Alyssa Hocog, Anarely Gamino Pinon, Arianna Gutierrez, Seraphyna Margraff and Kate Teku.
Field hockey conference honors
In girls field hockey, Alyssa Hocog and Seraphyna Margraff were named All-Conference First Team. Arianna Gutierrez was named All-Conference Second Team. Elizabeth Adler, Anarely Gamino Pinon, Grace Ohlsen and Kate Teku were named All-Conference Honorable Mention. They were coached by Jessica Hale with the assistance of Mike Mooney.
Football honorees include, from left, Logan Lindsay, Kobe Allen, Aaron Caldwell and Delvin Whittaker.
Football conference honors
Earning All-Conference First Team in football were Alijah Carter, Terrell Sanderson, who also earned the Sportsmanship Award, Xaivier Tipler and Delvin Whittaker, who was also named an Honorable Mention wide receiver and defensive back. Students named AllConference Second Team were Jatarius Battle, Aaron Caldwell, who was also named All-Academic, Keshawn Ford and Savon Smith. Players Jack Gietl, Jake Vitale and Wesley Spitzmiller were named All-Conference Honorable Mention. In addition, Kobe Allen, Logan Lindsay, Ian McBride and Luke Vogel were named All-Academic. They were coached by Steve Smith with the assistance of Kent Booth, Christian Brinser, Antonio Bryant, Victor Fink, Travis Harris, Scott Hauser, Steve Jones, Corey Lewis, Corey Newsome, Jesse Robinson and Stefan Seals.
BRAGGING WRITES
Honors, Awards and Achievements by Pattonville Students and Staff during the state conference: Sofia Boughton, Mandy Galli, Brooklin Hatley and Rachel McCormick, who also participated in the improv team and the short film competition. The thespians are directed by theater teacher Lara Corvera.
Counselor presentations
Two counselors from Pattonville High School were selected to present at the St. Louis Graduates Professional Development Institute. POSITIVE School counselor Michael Boulanger and college and career counselor Michelle Luraschi spoke on the topic “Strategies in Action: Partnering with Schools, Industry and Community Partners.” Luraschi was also selected to present a session with a colleague on “Engaging Parents and Families.”
Teacher of the Week Choir honorees include, from left, Maichi Nguyen, Lily Reynolds, Tara Wang and Joey Stewart.
State, All-Suburban honor choirs
During the St. Louis Suburban choir competition, the following students were selected for the All-State Choir and All-Suburban Honor Mixed Choir: juniors Julia Drake, Taylor Knight, Mackenzie Voss and Tony Washington, who is first alternate. Also selected to the Honor Mixed Choir were Emily Barton, Austin Branson, Jaelynne Cauldwell, Sion Cotton, Patrick Ferguson, Alayna Hopgood, Jahlil Johnson, Kristen Jones, Sarah Lewis, Zeresh Lewis Jr., Caleb Long, Connor Lorino, Ethan Mackenberg, Michael Massey, Michael Nelson, Maichi Nguyen, Michael Pirrie, Hannah Radican, Lily Reynolds, Andrew Schmitz, Joey Stewart, Christopher Tobar, Brianna Voss, Tara Wang and Sophia Zegar. In addition, the following students were selected to the All-Suburban Honors Treble Choir: Rajiah Allen, Madison Branson, Haley Brown, Jenna Hageman, Chelsey Laughlin, Lydia McCullough, Skylar Monnig, Abigail Moody, Sarah Nelson, Grace Radican, Kalista Roades, Devin Scharer and Hannadey Yezza. They are directed by choir teachers Tracy Baker and Melynda Lamb.
State thespian honors
Young Artists Exhibit
Eleven students and two teachers had artwork selected for display in the Young Artists and Their Teachers Exhibit. In photography, Sophia Hinojosa Sada placed first and Jack Goetz placed second. In digital art, Aaron Morris placed first, as well as second in drawing, and Tiana Knight placed third. Lillian Lofland placed second in sculpture. Other students who had work selected for display were: paintings by Leliyan Hughes and Adrianna Marshall and art by Kyra Correa, Alessandra Nero, Emily Schrumpf and Sydney Williams. Art teachers Kelli Dornfeld and Robin Woodrome also had artwork selected for the show. They, along with Beth Kathriner, Scott Fader and Marcia Mueller, taught these students.
All-Suburban bands
Summer film camp
Pattonville junior Kenneth Gordon was selected to participate in the On the Set Summer Film Camp, a non-profit program that teaches filmmaking to students. Gordon’s short film, “Unity,” premiered during a screening of camp films at Harris Stowe State University on Nov. 3.
Honored for participation in the Young Artists Exhibit were, from left, Sydney Williams, Leliyan Hughes and Aaron Morris.
Pattonville High School choir teacher Melynda Lamb was named Eric Whitacre’s Teacher of the Week in October. Every Thursday, the Grammy Award-winning composer and conductor shares a new Teacher of the Week from nominations made on his website. She was nominated by junior Christopher Tobar who wrote, “To a student like me, (a good teacher) is someone who puts the time into the job, cares about their students, pushes themselves to bring out the best in a kid and is always there when someone needs help.”
Kenneth Gordon
Pattonville Thespian Troupe No. 1934 was recognized as an Honor Troupe while taking part in the Missouri Thespian Conference. Three students advanced to nationals. Emily Barton earned a Superior rating in solo musical, which qualified her to advance to nationals. She also performed as a soloist during the All-State closing number. Michael Pirrie, who was also part of the improv team, and Elise Thompkins advanced to nationals after earning a Superior in duet acting at the state conference. Additionally, Lydia McCullough and Michael Nelson competed in the duet musical event and were also part of the Improv Intensive Team that competed at the conference. Madison Branson was also part of the improv team that competed. Finally, the following students participated in the Tech Challenge
Four students were selected for All-Suburban bands. Thomas McFarland and Seth Miranda were selected to the All-Suburban Jazz Band, with Max McFarland as an alternate. This is Thomas McFarland’s sixth consecutive and Max’s McFarland’s third Seth Miranda consecutive year earning AllSuburban honors. Additionally, Owen Moeller was selected as an alternate to the All-Suburban Concert Band. The Pattonville band is directed by Denny McFarland, Laura Livesay and Anna White.
All-Suburban Honors Orchestra Six students were selected to the All-Suburban Honors Orchestra. Anna Kasprzyk and William Skaggs were selected for bass. Jade Boyd, Nathan Moser and Natalie Young were selected for viola, and Elly Lu was named second alternate for viola. The Pattonville orchestra is directed by teacher Michael Dunsmoor.
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Anna Kasprzyk
PHS senior signs with The Ohio State University Pattonville High School senior Teriyon “Mookie” Cooper (shown seated, center) signed with The Ohio State University football team on National Signing Day in December. Cooper, a wide receiver, transferred from Trinity Catholic to Pattonville High School prior to this season but did not play with the Pirates. He graduated in December to enroll early at The Ohio State University.
62 Pattonville students named AP Scholars S
ixty-two Pattonville High School students have been recognized for their outstanding performance on the collegelevel Advanced Placement (AP) exams taken last spring. The College Board’s Advanced Placement Program offers students the opportunity to take challenging college-level courses while still in high school and to receive college credit, advanced placement or both for a successful performance on the course’s respective AP exam. Only about 20 percent of the more than 2.1 million high school students worldwide who took AP exams performed at a level to merit the recognition of AP Scholar. Pattonville students took the AP exams last May after completing college-level courses at Pattonville High School. Pattonville currently offers 18 Advanced Placement courses: AP Art History, AP Biology, AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, Pattonville students named AP Scholars include, from left, William Skaggs and AP Chemistry, AP Computer Science A, AP English Language Alessandra Nero. and Composition, AP Environmental Science, AP European History, AP Government and Politics, AP Macroeconomics, AP Microeconomics, AP Physics, AP Psychology, AP Spanish, AP Statistics, AP Studio Art and AP United States History. This year, 265 students are taking 450 sections of AP courses. Pattonville students were recognized for achieving four different levels of AP Scholar. Two students, graduates Mario Jauregui and Savanna Wooten, were named national AP scholars. Each completed nine AP exams. Eighteen students earned the Scholar with Distinction Award by scoring an average grade of at least 3.5 on all AP exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams. The following graduates were recognized with this honor: Leslie Azwell, Mikayla Bridges, Nichole DeKoster, Courtney Faasen, Randall Hartmann, Mario Jauregui, James Lyerla, Jarred McCormick, Gage Menk, Jeffrey Morgan, Alexander Newett, Will Polster, Abigail Surlet, Trevor Vigus, Rachel Williamson, Savanna Wooten, Devin Zahner and Edmond Zhang. Ten Pattonville students earned the Scholar with Honor Award by earning an average grade of at least 3.25 on all AP exams taken and grades of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams. Current seniors honored with this distinction are Eli Card, Erin McMahon, Matthew Samuel and William Skaggs. Additionally, 2019 graduates Elise Thompkins, Rylee Alipala, Joseph Ayers, Alexa Rybarczyk, Jacob Wilfong and Isaiah Wilkes were also named Scholars with Honor. Another 32 Pattonville students qualified for the AP Scholar Award by completing three or more AP Exams with grades of 3 or higher. Current Pattonville seniors who earned the AP Scholar Awards are: Casey Birk, Kyra Correa, Alex Djetto, Anarely Gamino-Pinon, Ayana Griffin, Jenna Hageman, Momo Kikuchi, Austin Morrison, Nathan Moser, Alessandra Nero, Logan Olejniczak, James Pieper, Emily Schrumpf, Noah Swartwout, Grant Wedig, Camilla Wilkerson and Natalie Young. Those who graduated last May and earned the recognition are: Nicholas Ertle, Aric Hamilton, Terrell Henderson, Hannah Jones, Morgan Kaemmerer, Alexis Lambros, Carleigh Lindsay, Victoria Lofland, Yasaman Mostafavi, Meaghan Pace, Justin Pruett, Amna Saeed, Brittany Strasburger, Samuel Vaclavik and Alexis Wysocki. More than 90 percent of the nation’s colleges and universities award credit and/or placement for qualifying exams. Each exam is developed by a committee of college and university faculty and AP teachers, ensuring that AP exams are aligned with the same high standards expected by college faculty at some of the nation’s leading liberal arts and research institutions. Research consistently shows that AP students who score a 3 or higher on AP exams typically experience greater academic success in college and have higher college graduation rates than students who do not participate in AP.
We’re hiring!
Pattonville is now hiring cooks for the food service program in our schools. The district offers part-time and substitute positions, employee benefits (for part-time employees), competitive pay and an average 3.5 working hours per day. Other positions are also open. Find out more and apply at hrc.psdr3.org.
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ALUMNI SUCCESS
Graduates in the news Find out more: alumni.psdr3.org
Scott Cooper, Class of 1986 - The Greater St. Louis
Amateur Baseball Hall of Fame selected Cooper as its 2020 Bob Burnes Award recipient. The award is presented annually for outstanding achievement in professional baseball by an individual from the Greater St. Louis area.
Dr. Nathan Hoven, Class of 1994 -
Hoven was selected by the Francis Howell School District Board of Education to serve as the district’s new superintendent, effective July 1, 2020. He has served as the district’s deputy superintendent and chief academic officer for the past two years. Hoven started his teaching career in Hazelwood Dr. Nathan Hoven and then Pattonville, where he taught high school math and coached football, wrestling and golf. In 2003, he became the assistant principal at Pattonville High School, and in 2008, he was named the principal of Rolla High School. In 2012, he moved to the Wentzville School District, where he served as the principal at Timberland High School. In 2015, he became Wentzville’s assistant superintendent for human resources. Hoven joined Francis Howell in 2018 as the chief academic officer and added the additional title (and responsibilities) of deputy superintendent in 2019. He earned a bachelor’s degree in applied mathematics from the University of Missouri-Rolla, a master’s degree in secondary administration from the University of Missouri-St. Louis and a doctorate in educational leadership and policy analysis from the University of Missouri-Columbia.
Nadia Maddex, Class of 2018, and Montel Moore, Class of 2009
- Maddex and Moore were selected as Young Artists in the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra IN UNISON Chorus. The Pattonville High School alumni were both featured soloists during Nadia Maddex, left, and Montel Moore the “A Gospel are shown at Powell Symphony Hall. Christmas” concert held at Powell Symphony Hall on Dec. 18 and 19. In front of an audience of more than 2,000 people, Maddex (soprano) and Moore (tenor) performed solos during the song “Silent Night, Holy Night.”
SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION | April 7, 2020 Election
Five candidates on ballot to fill three open seats on Pattonville Board of Education (shown in order of filing) DR. BRIAN J. GRAY
(Incumbent) A 20-year resident of Pattonville, Gray is a chiropractic physician. He attended the University of Colorado and holds a bachelor’s degree/doctor of chiropractic from Logan University. He and his wife, Sheila, are residents of Maryland Heights and the parents of two boys who attend Rose Acres Elementary School and Holman Middle School.
Volunteerism/Experience
“My experiences as a doctor, medical director, MSCA (Missouri State Chiropractic Association) vice-president and school board member have taught me to assess problems from various perspectives. Running a business has taught fiscal restraint and responsibility. My experience as a parent has taught me to put the children’s needs above all.”
Statement of Purpose
“As a parent to two young children, I am invested in the community and Pattonville School District. It is my duty as a citizen to be aware of our finances and challenges. As a top-ranked school district, we must strive for perfection. I wish to continue to guide the district as a school board member.”
MELINDA (MINDY) RIDINGS DR. SUMMER JOHNSON (Incumbent) An 18-year resident of Pattonville, Ridings is a teacher in the City of St. Charles School District and holds a bachelor’s degree from Drury University. She and her husband, Michael, are the parents of three girls, two who attend Pattonville Heights Middle School and one who attends Pattonville High School. She and her family reside in St. Louis County.
Volunteerism/Experience
“I have been a teacher for 19 years. Currently I teach seventh grade and was Teacher of the Year at Hardin Middle School (2016). In the past, I volunteered for Parkwood Elementary’s school improvement team, and I currently serve as a parent representative for the Bridgeton Swim and Dive Team.”
Statement of Purpose
“I am proud to be a resident of the Pattonville School District and am passionate about education. I am committed to supporting opportunities and programs that best serve all of our students and the continued success of our district. I look forward to serving Pattonville students and teachers.”
CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA A great way to keep up on Pattonville news is by following the district on social media. Facebook users, make sure you never miss a post from Pattonville by following a few simple steps. After liking our Facebook page, click the down triangle next to “Following.” Select the “See First” option to see Pattonville news at the top of your news feed. You can also find great stories on Pattonville’s website at www.psdr3.org. Facebook: www.facebook.com/PSDR3 Instagram: @PattonvilleSD Twitter: @PattonvilleSD YouTube: www.YouTube.com/PattonvilleR3
HARVEY (DEAN) LINHARDT
A 4-year resident of Pattonville, Johnson is a clinical psychologist for Compass Health Network. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Truman State University and a master’s degree from the Georgia School of Professional Psychology and a doctorate from the Forest Institute of Professional Psychology, both in clinical psychology. A resident of St. Louis County, she is the mother of a third-grader at Willow Brook Elementary School.
A 45-year resident of Pattonville, Linhardt worked as a security officer and spent 23 years as an over-the-road truck driver. He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from ITT Technical Institute and a master’s degree in elementary education from the University of Cincinnati. He and his wife, Renee, are the parents of a sophomore at Pattonville High School and three Pattonville graduates.
“I have 23 years experience working with youth in inpatient and outpatient settings, evaluating them for mental health issues and helping parents advocate for accommodations when working with school officials. I have a research background in cultural diversity, previously serving as chair of the Diversity and Student Affairs committees of the Missouri Psychological Association.”
“Vice president, Pattonville Alumni Association; football boosters; PTO Holman Middle School four years; help coordinate band booster craft fair; POPS organization two years; parent group for varsity swim team three years; concession for football; AllState football; All-Conference track; a Pirate forever; go Pirates.”
Volunteerism/Experience
Statement of Purpose
“Pattonville is rich in traditions and strong in its adherence to its ideals. We have a beautifully changing cultural landscape that requires addressing the challenges and opportunities it brings. My hope is to assist the district in adapting to these changes while still maintaining the standards of excellence we hold dear. ”
Volunteerism/Experience
Statement of Purpose
“Pattonville is a great school district. I have seen many wonderful changes over the last 45 years, both as a student and resident of Pattonville. I will do my best for every student, faculty member and the Pattonville community to continue to make Pattonville a great place to learn.”
ANDREA D. GLENN
(Incumbent) A 20-year resident of Pattonville, Glenn is the human resources (HR) business partner/HR site lead at Pfizer Inc. She holds a bachelor’s degree in human resources management from Kansas University and a master’s degree in human resources management from Webster University. She and her husband, Carl, are residents of Maryland Heights and the parents of two Pattonville graduates.
Volunteerism/Experience
“Currently serving sixth year on the Pattonville school board as president, EducationPlus board of directors vice-chair and previously Prop P campaign co-chair. My experience includes effective teamwork with the school board/ administration and over 25 years of human resources experience, with continued advocacy for all students and district employees in a safe learning environment.”
Statement of Purpose
“The school board must be the eyes, ears and voice of the community. I am committed to ensuring Pattonville’s continued legacy of excellence and distinction leveraging established collaborations with parents, support staff, teachers, administration and board members in a transparent, open environment while utilizing sound financial judgment for the vitality of the community.”
Elementary students celebrate being 100 days smarter Kindergarten students throughout Pattonville celebrated their 100th day of the school year on Jan. 30, and fifth graders at Parkwood Elementary School celebrated their 1,000th day of elementary school. At left, Drummond Elementary School kindergartners Rilee Rippon, left, and Jayla Powell dressed up and took part in 100day activities. See the full slideshow at bit.ly/PSD100Day.
“Pattonville Highlights” is published six times annually for residents of the Pattonville School District by the Pattonville Office of School-Community Relations, 11097 St. Charles Rock Road, St. Ann, MO 63074, (314) 213-8025. Website: www.psdr3.org. Email: mschoonover@psdr3.org. To sign up to receive a Pattonville newsletter by email, send your email address to PSDnews@psdr3.org.