_

Dear Students, Staff, Families, and Community Members,

As the holiday season approaches, I want to take a moment to reflect on the accomplishments, challenges, and opportunities that have shaped our school district this year.

First and foremost, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated staff. Your passion, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to education and the well-being of our students do not go unnoticed. Each day, you inspire young minds, nurture creativity, and build the foundation for a brighter future. Thank you for all that you do.

To our students: You are the heart of our school community. Your curiosity, determination, and kindness bring life to our classrooms and pride to our district. As you prepare to enjoy this holiday season, take time to reflect on all that you’ve achieved this year and the goals you’ve set for the months ahead. Remember, we are here to support you every step of the way.

To our families and community partners: Your collaboration and support make all the difference. Together, we create a nurturing environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive. Whether through attending events, volunteering, or cheering on our students from the sidelines, your involvement strengthens the fabric of our school community.

As we close out 2024, let us embrace the spirit of the season by spreading kindness, showing gratitude, and celebrating the diverse traditions that enrich our lives. The holidays remind us of the importance of coming together as one community, united in our shared commitment to excellence in education.

Looking ahead, I am excited about the opportunities the new year will bring. Together, we will continue to innovate, grow, and strive toward our shared vision for success.

"Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow."

-Melody Beattie

The Middle School hosted its annual Spelling Bee on Tuesday, November 12. After 19 rounds, Greigh Schnelle (8th grader) was named runner up and Charlotte David (5th grader) was announced our winner. Both students will represent St. Clairsville School District at the Belmont County Spelling Bee on February 13 at the ECO Center in St. Clairsville. Congratulations to all!

Junior Maxim Lussier placed third in The Future of Belmont County essay contest. The essay question for high school students was "What type of business, activity or recreation would you like to develop in Belmont County that would make you and other people stay or return to the area?" Maxim will receive $100 for her placement sponsored by the ECOESC, PNC Bank, EQT, Joe's Tire, the Flower Gardens and Belmont County Treasurer Katherine Kelich. Congratulations Maxim!

St. Clairsville-Richland City Schools Food Service Program is introducing the Feed the Future Lunch Fund. This fund supports families in our community that need assistance paying for student meals. Feed the Future Lunch Fund does not take the place of applying for the state funded free or reduced-price meals. This is a locally funded program with donations from individuals, groups, or area businesses. The fund is maintained by the District Food Service Program and is distributed on a case-by-case basis. This holiday season, consider making a donation to the STC Feed the Future Lunch Fund.

Upcoming Events

• December 3 - Kindergarten Holiday Concert - 6 p.m. & 6:45 p.m. - MS Auditorium
• December 5 - ES & HS to perform at Symphony on Ice
• December 8 - St. C Christmas Parade
• December 10-13 - High School End of Course Exams
• December 12 - ES Music Maker Holiday Performance - 6 p.m. - MS Auditorium
• December 18 - Band Concert - 7 p.m.
• December 18 - Choir Concert - 8 p.m.
• December 19 - Preschool Holiday Program - 9:30 a.m. - ES Cafeteria
• December 20 - Professional Development Day - No School
• December 23 - January 5 - Merry Christmas - Enjoy your holiday break!

The St. Clairsville Tree Lighting Event showcased talent from our Elementary School Music Makers and Red Devil High School Marching Band. The Music Makers, under the direction of Mr. Eric Trio, performed a few Christmas tunes on the courthouse steps. Santa was brought in by the Red Devil Marching Band while playing a few holiday favorites. What a festive event for the city!

We instill in our students that kindness matters and that's just what we saw on bus duty. One of our preschoolers helped another student off the bus and carried her backpack to the classroom. These two will be buddies for life!

Congratulations to our Red Devil Football team on a 13-1 season. In addition to being crowned Regional Runner Up, the Red Devil Football team claimed the OVAC and Buckeye 8 championships. Congrats on a great season!