Generosity is giving freely of my time, talents and possessions without expecting anything in return.

Generosity is a learned character trait that involves both attitude and action—entailing as a virtue both an inclination or predilection to give liberally and an actual practice of giving.

Lunch and Learn took place Tuesday December 20 before the Elementary Winter program in various classrooms around Southview. Teachers invited families to come meet their student’s friends and families over a pizza luncheon.

The Transition Department supports students, parents, school staff, and adult agencies in working together to plan and provide activities and services that are student centered, community based, self-determined and result in quality outcomes built on student’s interests and abilities.

The Vocational Skills Program (VSP) offered through the Transition Department is a unique community based work training program for 18-21 yr old students who need support beyond 4 years of high school. Housed in various businesses, students receive training in an integrated competitive work environment. Participation leads to increased independence in employment, social skills and adult living skills.

If your student is between the ages of 16-20 they may be eligible for the Summer Work Experience Program, or SWEP. Through the program, students hold a summer job in their community and receive job-coaching support. They are paid an hourly wage for their work. SWEP is funded by the Productive Living Board of St. Louis County, and is open to county residents with a qualifying disability. It is conducted through a collaboration of six area agencies -MERS/Goodwill is the Lead Agency. Applications received on or by February 6th will be given first priority. To access the application please visit SWEP Application - PDF or contact face@ssdmo.org or speak with your case manager.

Click the FAQ icon for Family Frequently Asked Questions about SWEP

Complimenting is an expression of praise or admiration for someone. Mark Twain, an American writer, humorist, entrepreneur, publisher, and lecturer once said that he can live for two months on a good compliment (provided he gets enough food and water). So how does this small act make a big difference on a person’s day?

According to studies compliments are a very powerful tool that can uplift the overall mood and productivity of an individual. Remember to compliment those around you today!

Want to see your student in the next newsletter? Make sure you have a media release on file!

Need help from a representative of Family and Community Engagement - send an email directly to face@ssdmo.org to begin communication. Families don’t have to know representatives by name. They will receive support from a member in our department within two working days. This will prevent delays in the event that representatives are out of the office and allow us to provide efficient and timely support.

Have you always wanted to increase your ability to effectively participate in your child’s education? Join us this spring for the Family Leadership Institute. The institute will be held Wednesday evenings, April 19th, 26th and May 3rd. We will explore the Charting the LifeCourse portfolio as it pertains to planning for your child’s future and the IEP process. Go to our webpage to apply today!

FACE workshops/events for 2023 are published please visit our website and plan to attend one of the many events we offer to support students, families, and staff.

Did you know that research tells us that students who are more self-determined are healthier, more independent, and are better able to recognize and resist abuse. Supported Decision-Making is a method of developing decision-making skills by relying on a team of trusted individuals (“Supporters”) to assist the person in collecting information, processing information, and coming to an informed decision. Supported Decision-Making can be an alternative to guardianship in that it provides a trusted and formalized environment for people who are seeking assistance with decision-making while still promoting self-determination. Watch this short video to learn more! Supported Decision Making- Disability Rights Texas

The SSD Board of Education strives for transparency, accountability, and accessibility. We welcome family, staff, and community members to share comments, concerns, and ideas with SSD Board of Education members. To find the Board member representing your subdistrict, visit the Board of Education page on the SSD website.