Academic Achiever: Family/Staff

Greeting SLPS Families and Staff -

As we welcome the month of March, we take time to celebrate Women’s History Month, honoring the many women who have shaped our history, our communities, and our schools. Across SLPS, students and staff will engage in activities that highlight the remarkable contributions of women in various fields, inspiring our students to see the limitless possibilities before them.

March is also a time for renewal, with Spring Break scheduled for March 17th–21st, giving students and staff a well-deserved opportunity to recharge before we enter the final stretch of the school year. At the same time, we remain focused on preparing for the future.

One key priority is student registration for the 2025-2026 school year. The response from families has been encouraging, with many taking advantage of the priority registration window, which closes March 8th. Registering early ensures access to important services like transportation and before- and after-school care. We encourage all families to complete registration as soon as possible to help us plan effectively for the upcoming school year.

Additionally, we are excited to share two significant updates that will enhance the experience of our students and families.

• Transportation Services: We have selected Zum as our new student transportation vendor, introducing a modern approach to school transportation with an emphasis on safety, reliability, and efficiency. Families can expect improved communication and tracking features to support a seamless experience.
• District Communication Platform: SLPS is partnering with ParentSquare to improve how families receive important district and school updates. This new platform will streamline communication, making it easier for parents and guardians to stay informed and engaged.

Finally, I am honored to share that I have been named the permanent Superintendent of Saint Louis Public Schools. I want to thank the Board of Education for their trust in my leadership and our SLPS community for your continued partnership. SLPS is more than a school district—it is a community, a place of opportunity, and a pathway to brighter futures. I look forward to continuing this important work, with a focus on student achievement, operational excellence, and community engagement.

Beyond my role as superintendent, I also want families to get to know the person behind the desk. Recently, I sat down for a conversation to share more about my background, my personal interests, and what I love most about Saint Louis. I spoke about my experiences as a student, how I unwind after a long day, and my philosophy on leadership. I invite you to learn more about me through this conversation, as we continue working together to support our students.

We look forward to a strong finish to the school year and appreciate your continued support of Saint Louis Public Schools.

Sincerely,

Dr. Millicent Borishade
Superintendent
Saint Louis Public Schools

March 6th - Parent University (The Mission of Student Support Services)

March 7th - Professional Development (No School for Students)

March 8th - Last Day for Priority Student Registration

Match 10 - End of 314 Pi Day Reading Challenge

March 11th - Board of Education Meeting @ SLPS Central Office

March 14th - No School for Students or School Staff

March 17th - 21st - Spring Break (No School for Students or School Staff)

March 27th - SLPS Community Cafe @ McKinley CLA (2156 Russell Ave) from 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

Saint Louis Public Schools invites families to enroll in Camp SLPS 2025, a free summer program running from June 2nd to June 27th that keeps students engaged through hands-on learning, enrichment activities, and academic support. Elementary students can explore robotics, entrepreneurship, sports, performing arts, and STEM, while high school students have opportunities for credit recovery and accelerated learning. Breakfast, lunch, and transportation for eligible students will be provided, with limited aftercare available for elementary students. Enrollment is open through April 18th, with priority placement for students needing summer learning for promotion. Spaces are limited—apply early! Learn more at www.slps.org/campslps.

Click below to complete your enrollment application.

The priority registration window for the 2025-2026 school year closes on March 8th. Families who register by this deadline will have transportation routes assigned first, while those who opt in after may experience processing delays. All students, including returning students, must be registered, and transportation services must be selected during registration. Students in grades P4-12 are eligible for bus transportation if they live one mile or more from their neighborhood school or attend a magnet school. The final in-person registration assistance event is on March 4th at Hickey Elementary, Oak Hill Elementary, and Nahed Chapman New American Academy, with sessions from 9:00–11:00 AM and 2:00–4:00 PM. Additional support is available at the SLPS Central Office Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM. Register now to secure your child’s spot and avoid transportation delays. Learn more at www.slps.org/register.

Saint Louis Public Schools invites you to our Community Café series! Join us to talk about how we can improve our schools. We want to hear your ideas. Our next Community Cafe will take place on:

• Mar 27th from 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm at McKinley Classical Leadership Academy

Learn more by visiting the SLPS Community Café link below.

Parent University is a monthly in-person workshop series designed to empower families with the skills and confidence to support their children's education. Held on the first Thursday of every month from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM at the SLPS Central Office, these interactive sessions provide valuable strategies for enhancing student success, fostering positive school-home relationships, and promoting overall well-being.

• Featured Presenter: Just Right Reader!
• Engaging Strategies for Parents & Caregivers – Learn how to foster a strong home-learning environment and support your child’s literacy development.
• Growth Mindset & Positive Thinking – A guide for parents and educators on cultivating resilience and success in students.
• Essential Academic Resources – Gain valuable information to help your child thrive in school.
• Onsite Intent-to-Return Registration – Secure your child’s place for the upcoming school year.
• Interpreters Available – Support in the district’s top languages.
• Free Childcare – Provided by Early Childhood Education & Family and Community Engagement.

Register at the link below. Don’t miss this chance to support your child’s success.

Saint Louis Public Schools invites all students to participate in the 314 Pi Day Reading Challenge as part of Literacy for the Lou. From now through March 10th, students should read 30 minutes a day to reach 314 total minutes. Those who complete the challenge will earn a movie ticket of their choice and an invitation to a special screening at Carr Lane Middle School on March 14th at 9 AM with Dr. Borishade.

Challenge Rules:

• Open to all SLPS students (PreK–12) and St. Louis City residents.
• Students must register to participate.
• Read at least 314 minutes by March 10th (parents may read to younger children).
• Log reading minutes in the online 314 Pi Day Reading Tracker, linked below.
• Minutes must be recorded by Sunday, March 10th to qualify.

Encourage your school community to join—share using the email linked below. Questions? Contact communications@slps.org.

The Parsons Blewett Memorial Fund is now accepting applications for the Summer 2025 Traditional Scholarship Program, offering full tuition reimbursement for up to six academic hours at an accredited metropolitan institution. Eligible applicants must be certified full-time SLPS employees for at least 12 continuous months, hold a valid DESE teaching certificate, and be in good standing with both the District and Parsons Blewett. Educators hired after March 15, 2024, or those with a break in employment, are not eligible this session. Applications must be submitted through the web portal, and only one submission is allowed per applicant—proofread carefully before submitting. Some applicants may need to upload an academic plan from their university advisor. Business administration and higher education courses do not qualify for reimbursement. Apply early to ensure consideration. For full details, eligibility requirements, and a list of approved institutions, access the links below.

Saint Louis Public Schools proudly celebrates our Board of Education in honor of National School Board Recognition Month. We extend our deepest appreciation to the dedicated individuals who help shape the future of our district:

• President: Antionette "Toni" Cousins
• Vice President: Matt Davis
• Secretary: Donna Jones
• Board Members: Emily Hubbard, Tracy Hykes, Natalie Vowell, Ben Conover

We are pleased to welcome Ben Conover as our newest board member and look forward to his contributions to our district's mission.

This group of leaders invests countless hours into meetings, policy decisions, and community engagement, ensuring that SLPS remains a place where students can thrive and succeed. Their commitment to public education and advocacy for our students, families, and staff plays a crucial role in advancing opportunities throughout the district.

Thank you to our Board of Education for your leadership, service, and unwavering support of Saint Louis Public Schools!

The Missouri School Boards Association (MSBA) review of the new SLPS finance policies is complete, and the Board approved the updates at its February meeting. These policies are now available for public review in the Diligence/Community Library, linked below.

Additionally, District credit card training is underway, with the Superintendent, Board Members, and staff already participating. More training dates will be scheduled to ensure all necessary staff complete the training.

Join the PAC Thursday, March 27th, at Vashon High School for a Board of Education Candidate Forum, starting at 6:30 PM. There are three seats available on the Board of Education, and candidates vying for those seats will be present to share their plans and hear your perspectives. Visit the Parent Action Council webpage, linked below, for more information.

The Parent Action Council (PAC) meeting covered key updates on food and transportation services, allowing parents to hear from district leaders, ask questions, and share feedback.

Food Services

SLPS is testing a Food Court Model in some middle and high schools, while elementary schools continue offering two hot meals and one cold option daily. Parents requested meal consistency, eco-friendly trays, and expanded international cuisine. The district is also exploring lactose-free milk and improved meal communication. Food demonstrations will continue through March.

Transportation

Zum is now the district’s primary provider, working to improve routes, shorten walking distances, and support co-parenting households. Next year, all high school students will have bus access.

After-school transportation is expanding beyond sports, and SLPS is preparing for driver shortages. Zum buses will feature air conditioning, cameras, RFID check-ins, and real-time tracking via the Zum app.

Get ready to move! Join us on Saturday, April 26th in Downtown St. Louis for the 2025 Spring Into Fitness event. This year, we are excited to share space with the Greater St. Louis Marathon Weekend of events. Our 5K and 1-Mile runners and walkers will be participating in these races, thanks to our friends at GO! St. Louis

But you don't have to run or walk to be a part of Spring into Fitness! There's Zumba, yoga, and a Foam Zone - something for everyone! Register by April 21st to secure your spot and receive a premium event shirt, finisher’s medal, and access to local food and drinks.

For those wanting to train early, check out STL Run Crew’s “Sunday Runday” at Kiener Plaza every Sunday at 10 AM

To keep up with PAC meetings and activities, follow us on our Google page.

At SLPS, we're dedicated to developing well-rounded student prepared for success in life beyond the classroom. Our Portrait of a Graduate guides our approach, focusing on essential qualities like critical thinking, effective communication, cultural awareness, and collaboration. We empower our students to be change agents, ready to make a positive impact on their communities and the world.

This month, we highlight Anthony Rayner, a senior at Gateway STEM High School, whose dedication, perseverance, and vision for the future embody the Portrait of a Graduate tenets. Having attended Saint Louis Public Schools from elementary through high school—starting at Sherman Elementary, continuing through L’Ouverture Middle School, and now preparing to graduate from Gateway STEM—Anthony’s journey is a testament to the strength of SLPS students.

College and Career Ready: Preparing for the Future

Gateway STEM has provided Anthony with the academic and athletic foundation to pursue his dreams. “Coach Dulek challenged me mentally, physically, and even during the off-season to play football at the collegiate level.” These experiences have helped him develop the skills needed to navigate life’s experiences with resilience and purpose. As he prepares to attend Quincy University, Anthony is embracing his next chapter as a self-directed learner, ready to take on both academic and athletic challenges.

Change Agent: Inspired by Mentorship and Community

Anthony credits his journey to the educators who never gave up on him. Reflecting on his time at L’Ouverture Middle School, he acknowledges the lasting impact of Miss Richardson, his sixth and seventh-grade teacher. “She never gave up on me,” he shares. Her support helped shape Anthony into a motivated student and role model, demonstrating the importance of perseverance. As a student-athlete, he leads by example, showing younger students that dedication can open doors to new opportunities.

Competence: Overcoming Challenges

Anthony’s message to SLPS students striving for scholarships and athletic success is simple yet powerful:
“Keep going. They told me I couldn't, but I did it. So never give up on your dreams.”

His journey reflects grit and resilience, key attributes of a competent graduate. Through hard work, discipline, and an unwavering belief in himself, Anthony has shown what it means to push through challenges to achieve success.

Communicator: Defining His Path

As Anthony prepares for college, he envisions a future where he can speak effectively and purposefully through both his words and actions. His academic goal is to earn a bachelor’s degree in business and accounting, setting the stage for long-term financial success.

A Vision for Entrepreneurship

While Anthony’s dream is to play in the National Football League, he is also thinking ahead to life after football. “I see myself with multiple businesses. Making my own money on my own time. And then traveling a lot.” His interest in entrepreneurship—particularly in the clothing industry alongside his brother—reflects his ambition to build something of his own.

A True Gateway Graduate

Anthony Rayner’s story represents what it means to be an SLPS graduate—resilient, prepared, and driven. Having attended SLPS from elementary through high school, he is a shining example of how our district nurtures students from their earliest years through graduation. His journey reminds us that with determination, mentorship, and a belief in one’s abilities, anything is possible.

Four SLPS high school students from Gateway STEM, Vashon, Collegiate, and SLPS Virtual Academy have been selected to receive the Congressional Scholarship from Ranken Technical College. These $5,000 scholarships will support their continued education in the trades, reinforcing SLPS’s commitment to preparing students for both college and career pathways. By equipping students with the skills and opportunities needed for success beyond high school, SLPS continues to develop graduates ready to excel in their chosen fields.

3rd and 4th grade students at Hickey and Columbia Elementary are bringing their creativity to life through a partnership with Story Pirates, an arts education and media company that celebrates student writing. As part of SLPS’s reading and writing initiative, this collaboration reinforces the importance of storytelling and literacy by giving students a platform to develop their ideas.

Throughout March, students will finalize their drafts before professional improvisers and musicians transform their stories into performances—a unique opportunity to see their words in action and strengthen their confidence as writers.

In honor of Women’s History Month, we asked our students a simple yet powerful question: "Which woman has influenced you the most?" Their answers highlight the remarkable impact of mothers, teachers, historical figures, and community leaders who have shaped their lives.

Watch the video below to hear their inspiring responses and join us in celebrating the incredible women who make a difference every day.

For Women’s History Month, Saint Louis Public Schools celebrates Leanne White, Ed.S, Director of Healthy Schools Initiatives, who has been named one of St. Louis Children's Hospital’s 2024 Community & Legislative Advocates of the Year for her dedication to student and staff wellness. Since launching the Academics in Movement (AIM) Healthy School Initiative in 2016, Leanne has helped 30 SLPS schools earn recognition as America’s Healthiest Schools, benefiting over 12,000 students through increased physical activity, green spaces, and wellness programs. Her work has led to higher attendance rates and fewer disciplinary incidents while ensuring that health and wellness remain a priority in education.

Read her full story at www.slps.org/Page/81537.

For Women’s History Month, Saint Louis Public Schools highlights Nakisha Bailey, a 2002 Metro High School graduate who has made waves in the music industry and entrepreneurship. After working her way up to Vice President at Atlantic Records, Nakisha saw the need for more women—especially Black women—in leadership roles. She later took a bold step into business, co-founding Win Win Coffee, Philadelphia’s first Black woman-owned coffee roasting company. Nakisha now inspires the next generation by encouraging young women to use their voices, take risks, and create their own opportunities.

Read her full story at www.slps.org/Page/81538.

Saint Louis Public Schools proudly recognizes the dedication and commitment of our employees who are celebrating milestone anniversaries this month. Thank you for your years of service and for making a lasting impact on our students and community.

30 Years of Service

• L. Pines, Clerk Typist II – Roosevelt High (Hired: March 13, 1995)

25 Years of Service

• L. Stubblefield, Custodian – Building Commissioner (Hired: March 11, 2000)

20 Years of Service

• P. Vandivort, Spring Board Learning Lecturer – Springboard to Learning (Hired: March 5, 2005)

10 Years of Service

• T. Watkins, Academic Instructional Coach – State and Federal Program (Hired: March 21, 2015)

5 Years of Service

• I. Jorrin, Middle for Lang-Spanish Teacher – Carnahan School of the Future (Hired: March 2, 2020)
• J. Linhorst, Social Worker – Humboldt Academy of Higher Learning (Hired: March 2, 2020)
• S. Hutchins, Secretary II – NCNAA @ Stevens (Hired: March 9, 2020)
• D. Davis, Custodian – Building Commissioner (Hired: March 16, 2020)

Congratulations to all of this month's honorees! Your dedication and service to our district are deeply appreciated and celebrated.

On March 27th, KidSmart will visit Sigel Elementary to deliver school supplies and snacks, providing students with essential tools for learning. Their generosity comes at a great time as students prepare for the final stretch of the school year. The visit also coincides with Cardinals’ Opening Day, bringing added excitement to the school community.

Thank you to KidSmart for supporting our students and schools.

Want to show your support for our amazing student athletes? Come cheer them on at an upcoming game.

SLPS offers a variety of exciting sporting events throughout the year, and we encourage all parents and families to join in the fun.

Here's how to get your tickets:

• Visit the SLPS Athletics website: You can find schedules, team information, and ticket links on the official SLPS Athletics website: https://www.slps.org/phltickets