July Newsletter

We are thrilled to announce that Jacob England and Dani Whitcher have been awarded scholarships from the Cerutti Family Foundation to further their education as teachers in the Parkway School District! This recognition honors their dedication to lifelong learning and their commitment to inspiring the next generation of students. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and their unwavering passion for education.

The scholarships awarded to Jacob and Dani are part of the Cerutti Family Foundation's ongoing commitment to supporting both teachers and students in the Parkway community. The Foundation was established to honor the memory of Tim and Mike Cerutti, who were beloved teachers passionate about bringing out the best in every student and educator. The Foundation's mission is to positively impact students' lives through the funding of scholarships.

In partnership with the Parkway Alumni Association (PAA), the Cerutti Family Foundation is funding two key initiatives for Parkway teachers and students:

1. Continuing Education Scholarships for Teachers: This initiative ensures that teachers can continue their education and remain at the forefront of their fields. By providing these scholarships, the Foundation helps educators enhance their skills and knowledge, ultimately benefiting the students they teach.

2. Outdoor School Scholarships for Sixth Grade Students: Since 1970, the Parkway Outdoor School Program has been held at Camp Lakewood, located at the YMCA of the Ozarks near Potosi, Missouri. Originally known as the E-E-E (Environmental, Ecological, Experiential) program, it offers a four-day immersive experience for sixth-grade students. Initially funded by federal grants, the program is now supported by district funds and student fees. The Cerutti Family Foundation's scholarships ensure that every student can participate in this remarkable program, regardless of financial barriers.

Barb Cerutti, speaking on behalf of the Foundation, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the generous donors who have made these scholarships possible: "The Cerutti Family Foundation is sincerely grateful to all our generous donors, whose contributions have allowed us to give out four teacher scholarships and 26 Outdoor School scholarships in our first two years. This show of support for Parkway teachers and students exemplifies the Parkway community spirit and is a great homage to the two men, Tim and Mike, who dedicated their lives and souls to the enrichment of so many so dear to their hearts."

The Cerutti Family Foundation's dedication to education and the Parkway community is a testament to the enduring legacy of Tim and Mike Cerutti. We look forward to seeing the continued positive impact of their work on our teachers and students for years to come. Congratulations again to Jacob England and Dani Whitcher on their well-deserved scholarships!

Learn more about the programs by clicking here.

Throughout 2024 our alumni association is celebrating three decades of dedicated service to our students and the Parkway community. Anticipating an incredible year, we're thrilled to announce an array of events designed for our esteemed alumni and the community. Be sure to mark your calendars for these upcoming gatherings and stay tuned for additional details.

The PAA will host this annual event again at Forest Park Golf Course, one of the most popular public golf courses in the Midwest. Mark your calendar for Saturday, October 26, 2024 and register here!

Save the date for an evening of celebration and honor on November 9, 2024, as we induct the latest esteemed members into the Parkway Alumni Hall of Fame. Join us at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center for a memorable event that recognizes the remarkable achievements and contributions of our distinguished alumni. Mark your calendars and prepare to be inspired by the stories and successes of our newest inductees. We look forward to celebrating with you!

If your reunion details aren't on the website, email them to us!

The PAA is here to help you plan a successful reunion! We can provide contact info and guidance for your event. Reach out to us at (314) 415-8074 or ParkwayAlumni@ParkwaySchools.net for more info.

Interested in our scholarship programs or want to create one to honor yourself or a loved one? Contact Sandy Riutcel, Executive Director of the Parkway Alumni Association, at 314-415-8074 (office) or sriutcel@parkwayschools.net for details. We're here to support your aspirations and ensure our alumni can continue their academic journey!

Hello Alumni!

I’m excited to introduce myself as your new Parkway Alumni Association Board President! I’m Kennedy Brown Graf, a proud Parkway South grad from the Class of 2015. Currently, I reside in St. Louis with my husband and work in corporate marketing and event planning.

Over the past year, I’ve had the pleasure of learning from our previous leadership, Dr. Tom Smith, as President Elect. I’m eager to continue supporting our PAA programs and build on the great work done before me.

This year, we have the exciting opportunity to celebrate our 30th anniversary and look forward to several events this fall. These gatherings will be a wonderful way to reconnect as alumni and support our school community.

Thank you for this opportunity. I can’t wait to connect with many of you and make this year memorable!

Warm regards,
Kennedy Graf, South '15

Parkway Central graduate Emily Sisson will make her marathon debut at the Olympics. Read more about her second time competing in the Games on the Team USA website.

Talk about a heartwarming reunion that reminds us of a teacher's powerful impact! Northeast Middle French instructor Lisa Haugen knew she had to make the trip to NYC when former Parkway student Jeffrey Zuckerman invited her to attend the ceremony where he'd be receiving the prestigious "Chevalier de l'ordre des arts et des lettres" distinction from the French Ministry of Culture. Witnessing Jeffrey's heartfelt acceptance speech recounting his journey from learning to speak as a deaf student to becoming an honored translator brought Lisa and many others to happy tears. Jeffrey's words of gratitude were the perfect end to Teacher Appreciation Week last month and certainly a career highlight for Lisa.

Congratulations, Jeffrey, on your continued success and sharing what doors were opened for you as a Parkway student.

Students and educators at North High broke ground today on a new security vestibule and entrance! THANK YOU to our community and its support of Prop S for making this project possible.

Dr. Keith Marty, superintendent of Parkway Schools, announced his plans to retire at the end of the 2024-25 school year, after 14 years as superintendent.

Dr. Marty’s last day will be June 30, 2025. The timing of this announcement will allow the Board of Education to conduct a thorough search for the next superintendent and provide for a seamless transition.

Serena Huang, rising junior at Central High, was selected to participate in the prestigious NASA Student Enhancement in Earth and Space Science (SEES) program. The summer internship at The University of Texas at Austin provides 50 students (out of 500+ applicants nationwide) the rare opportunity to spend two weeks working alongside NASA scientists and engineers exploring the cutting edge of space science and microgravity.

We need help at your school! We have openings for bus drivers, and many others for custodians and grounds crew employees needed to support our families. If you know someone who is interested, please share this with them. Interested applicants can call 314-415-8401 for more information or visit this website.