SDUC Newsletter 07/17/25

Dear University City Families and Staff,

I hope you’ve had a joyful and restorative summer so far. Mine has been full in the best of ways, packed with soccer games, plenty of sunshine, professional learning, and even an external leadership retreat I had the privilege of facilitating. Summer is a time to recharge, but also to reflect and grow, and that’s exactly what we’ve been doing across our District.

Even during summer break, there is so much happening across the District that fills us with pride. I’m excited to share just a few recent highlights that showcase the talent, dedication, and spirit of our students and staff.

We officially wrapped up graduation season with our 2025 Summer Commencement. ROAR Academy honored four exceptional graduates during a heartfelt ceremony at the UCHS Library. Surrounded by family, friends, staff, and community members, these students were celebrated for their achievements and resilience. Congratulations to the Class of 2025! We are so proud of you and excited for what lies ahead!

Destiny recently graduated with her high school diploma, Associate’s Degree, Pharmacy Technician Certification, and now her EMT Certification - all before heading to Fisk University this fall. Notably, she completed her Associate’s Degree and EMT training simultaneously, demonstrating outstanding dedication and perseverance.

Congratulations, Destiny! Your achievements are a shining example of what is possible through hard work, focus, and determination.

Our Camp U students wrapped up their summer learning with a dynamic Project-Based Learning (PBL) Showcase. From building miniature golf courses and designing tiny homes to honoring community heroes, students tackled real-world challenges with creativity and purpose. At Brittany Woods Middle School, the 4Cs, commitment, communication, collaboration, and creation, came to life through powerful presentations in culinary arts, sports, gardening, and engineering.

Congratulations to our young innovators!

Summer Learning Academy, which concluded on July 3, provided our students with valuable opportunities to engage in hands-on internships, earn dual credit, support incoming freshmen, and explore their interests in meaningful ways.

One standout experience involved a group of University City High School students who participated in a summer internship with SHED (Sustainable Housing & Equitable Development), a local nonprofit focused on advancing housing equity. As part of the program, students helped build a deck at a local residence, gaining practical skills in construction, teamwork, and community service.

We are incredibly proud of their dedication and grateful to SHED for providing such an impactful, real-world learning experience.

The excitement is building — literally! Construction officially began earlier this summer on our new UCHS Sports Complex, and the community is buzzing with anticipation. Stay tuned as we continue to bring this vision to life!

We are thrilled to welcome some of our youngest learners through our Jumpstart to Kindergarten program, held Tuesday, July 29 through Thursday, July 31. As a reminder for families who registered, sessions will take place at all four elementary schools and will provide in-person orientation for students and families.

Join us on Tuesday, August 5, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Centennial Commons for our annual National Night Out/Back-to-School Rally. This free, family-friendly event, held in partnership with the University City Police Department, celebrates community, connection, and safety. This year’s new location supports ongoing Prop U school renovations while keeping our back-to-school momentum strong.

To learn more about this year's NNOBTSR, click here.

We’re excited to launch the City Connects program to better support our students’ academic and non-academic needs. As we build this system of support, your voice is essential. In the coming weeks, we’ll release a short survey asking for your input on student challenges, family strengths, and school needs. Stay tuned!

The first day of school is Monday, August 18! Please visit our online District calendar for details on school-specific orientations, meetups, and kickoff events.

As a reminder, all District buildings and offices are closed every Friday in July and Friday, August 1. Enjoy the rest of your summer. We look forward to welcoming you back for a new year filled with growth, learning, and joy.

In Service of Our Children,

Sharonica L. Hardin-Bartley, Ph.D., PHR

Superintendent

Address: Ronald E. McNair Administration Building | 7700 Olive Blvd., University City, MO 63130

Contact: cco@ucityschools.org