One District United e-Newsletter

Ferguson-Florissant School District school calendar for the 2025-2026 school year has been approved. Click here to view the calendar.

Pictured: Students at McCluer making their declaration on National Decision Day!

May 1 was National Decision Day! High school seniors proudly declare their next steps—whether it’s college, the military, a trade, or entering the workforce. Staff joined in the celebration, showing their support for the exciting journeys that lie ahead. We are so proud of the Class of 2025 and can’t wait to see all they accomplish!

The Board received 16 applications from candidates across five different states and has officially initiated the interview process. Stakeholders who expressed interest in serving on a confidential panel have been contacted by email to confirm their availability.

In May, the Board will randomly select two representatives from each stakeholder group to participate on the panel. We remain committed to selecting a Superintendent of Schools whose leadership aligns with the candidate profile shaped by input from over 600 stakeholders in our community. Stay connected—we will continue to share updates with the community as the process moves forward. Learn more here.

Help celebrate Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week beginning May 5 by sending a virtual postcard to a Ferguson-Florissant staff member! Take a moment to thank someone who’s made a difference for you, your child, or your family. Fill out the quick form to send a personalized message straight to their inbox. Families, staff, and community members are all invited to share their appreciation. Learn more on the website here.

Officer Ivan Reed was surprised at Ferguson Middle with a visit during lunch from staff, students and administrators on April 29.

Officer Ivan Reed was named the 2024-25 Ferguson-Florissant Support Staff of the Year in a surprise announcement during lunch with students, staff, and administrators at Ferguson Middle School. Reed is known throughout Ferguson Middle for his steady presence and genuine connection with students.

He does far more than help keep the building safe. He mentors students, motivates those who need extra encouragement, and is always ready to lend a hand to staff. As he puts it about the students, “They are like my kids. I love them all.” Congratulations, Officer Reed! Read more: https://bit.ly/3YVSWbQ.

Pictured: Thanks to generous donations forty-two middle school students participated in a hands-on medical experience at St. Louis University Medical School.

Thursday, May 8, is Give STL Day! Join us in supporting Ferguson-Florissant students by making a donation to the FFSD Foundation for Education. Early giving is open—you can schedule your gift today. Every dollar goes directly to classrooms, helping fund supplies, scholarships, field trips, and more. See how donations are making an impact in classrooms and for students in 2025: https://bit.ly/FFSDFoundation

Give every student the tools they need to succeed—make your donation today! Click here to donate: https://www.givestlday.org/organization/Fergusonflorissantfoundationforeducation

Forty-two FFSD 7th and 8th graders spent the day at SLU’s School of Medicine for an unforgettable, hands-on medical experience. Students explored labs—opened to school-aged youth for the first time—learning about heart and lung function, blood draws, CPR, and ultrasounds alongside twenty-two SLU doctors.Thank you to SLU for opening doors and helping students explore the wide range of careers in medicine. 📸 View photos from the day: Photo Gallery

The final push to the end of the semester is here. The last few weeks include projects, testing, assignments, and final exams. We know that this can lead to increased levels of stress and fatigue. Here are some tips for parents and caregivers to share with their children in hopes of finishing the semester strong:

• Stick to a routine: Set regular times for studying, meals, and sleep.

• Break work into chunks: Focus on one task at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Take short breaks: Stepping away for a few minutes can help boost focus and energy.

• Limit distractions: Create a quiet space for homework and studying.

• Stay hydrated and eat well: Good nutrition supports concentration and stamina.

• Talk it out: Encourage open conversations about stress or worries.

• Celebrate small wins: Acknowledge progress to stay motivated.

Congratulations to McCluer North’s Zion Norman, recipient of the 2025 John Cary Scholarship, presented by Emerson. This scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate determination and academic commitment. Zion was honored at the Special School District Inspiring Futures Award event. We’re proud of Zion and grateful to her nominating teacher, Ms. Schack.

Pictured: LaToya Nelson, FFSD technology specialist, Dr. Michael Maclin, SSD Superintendent, Carmen Stanton, SSD Board President.

We’re proud to celebrate LaToya Nelson, technology specialist in Ferguson-Florissant School District, who has been appointed to a one-year term as director for Subdistrict 4 on the Special School District of St. Louis County (SSD) Governing Council. Representing Ferguson-Florissant, Pattonville, and Riverview Gardens, Nelson brings both professional expertise and a personal perspective as a parent of a student with autism—championing decisions that prioritize students and families.

Nelson is making history as the first African-American and first woman to serve in this role. She will be officially sworn in during the SSD May 13 meeting. We are #fergflorproud of you, Ms. Nelson!

We’re celebrating the Class of 2025! Do you have a senior you’d like to highlight? Send their photo and post-graduation plans to info@fergflor.org to be featured on social media. We’ll share as many as we can!

District state benchmark assessments and end-of-course exams begin this week and run through May 16, we want every student to feel confident and prepared to do their best.

Here are a few simple ways you can help:

• Be on Time & Ready – Make sure your student arrives at school on time, feeling prepared and ready to do their best.
• Encourage a Positive Mindset – Remind your student that this test is just one way to show what they know. Encourage them to try their best and celebrate their progress.
• Sleep Well & Eat Well – A good night’s sleep and a healthy breakfast (at home or the school provides free breakfast for every student) can make a big difference in focus and performance.
• Talk About It – Ask your student about their goals and what they’re learning. A little encouragement can boost their confidence!

Our students are encouraging one another to do their best—listen to what they have to say. Let's Show What FFSD Can Do!

Is your child turning five (5) by July 31? It’s time to register for kindergarten! You can beat the summer rush and get your student registered early. Join our school family and start your child’s learning journey with Ferguson-Florissant School District. Make plans to attend Kindergarten Registration this Saturday, May 3, from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Vogt Welcome Center, 200 Church St. 63135. Learn more here.

Saturday, May 3 @ 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Kindergarten Registration

Vogt Welcome Center

200 Church St. 63135

Wednesday, May 14 @ 6 p.m. (Watch Live)

Board of Education Meeting

Administration Center

Sunday, May 18

McCluer North Graduation - 10:00 a.m. @ Family Arena

McCluer Graduation - 2:00 p.m. @ Family Arena

STEAM High Graduation - 5:00 p.m.@ Family Arena

Innovation Graduation - 7:30 p.m. @ STEAM High Auditorium

May 21, 22, 23

Half-Day/Finals for Grades 6-12

Friday, May 23

Half-Day for all Pre K-12 Students

Last Day of School

Monday, May 26

District Closed

Memorial Day Holiday