Academic Achiever: Family/Staff

Greeting SLPS Families and Staff -

As we close out the 2024–2025 school year, I invite you to take a few moments to reflect with me on where we’ve been, what we’ve achieved, and where we’re going next.

In this year-end video message, I share highlights from our journey together—including student growth, districtwide progress, and the foundation we’ve built for the future of SLPS. I encourage you to watch and join me in celebrating the incredible work of our students, staff, families, and community.

With gratitude and optimism,

Dr. Millicent Borishade

Superintendent

Saint Louis Public Schools

• June 2nd - First Day of Camp SLPS
• June 5th - Reimagining SLPS Community Meeting Phase 2 (Gateway Complex, 1200 N. Jefferson Ave 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
• June 7th - Reimagining SLPS Community Meeting Phase 2 (Clyde C. Miller HS, 1000 N. Grand Blvd. 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM)
• June 11th - Reimagining SLPS Community Meeting Phase 2 (Compton Drew MS, 5130 Oakland Ave. 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
• June 16th – Second Round of Transportation Assignments Sent
• June 18th - Reimagining SLPS Community Meeting Phase 2 (SLPS Central Office, 801 N. 11th St. 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
• June 19th - Juneteenth Holiday (All Schools and District Offices Closed)
• June 21st - Reimagining SLPS Community Meeting Phase 2 (Roosevelt HS, 3230 Hartford Ave. 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
• June 25th - Reimagining SLPS Community Meeting Phase 2 (Gateway STEM HS, 5301 McRee Ave. 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
• June 27th - Last Day of Camp SLPS

Your Voice. Your Vision. Our Future.

Phase 2 of the Reimagining SLPS initiative is now underway—and it marks a pivotal moment for our school community.

While Phase 1 focused on presenting data and understanding current realities, Phase 2 shifts the conversation toward collaboration and co-creation. These meetings are designed to move beyond information-sharing and actively invite the community to help shape the future direction of Saint Louis Public Schools.

What to Expect at a Phase 2 Meeting:

Each one-hour session is interactive and community-centered, with a clear goal: To gather specific, actionable feedback on potential district pathways, school configurations, resource utilization, and feeder patterns.

Meetings will follow a consistent format:

• Brief Recap of Phase 1 Insights

• Guided Conversation around key decision points (such as school usage, program placement, and equity implications)

• Interactive Feedback Activities (participants will share input on what’s working, what’s needed, and what possibilities should be prioritized)

Why It Matters:

This is not just a listening session—it’s a planning space. What we hear from families, staff, and students in Phase 2 will directly inform the pathways we model and the proposals we bring forward in Phase 3.

We invite everyone—caregivers, educators, students, and community members—to be part of this critical next step in shaping an SLPS that is equitable, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of our city.

SLPS enrollment is available throughout the summer to all families in the City of St. Louis.

Visit www.slps.org/register to get started.

Monday, August 5 - Time: TBA
SLPS Central Office – 801 N. 11th St., St. Louis, MO 63101

Kick off the new school year with the resources you need to succeed!

Free Services & Resources Include:

• Immunizations, Medical & Sports Physicals

• Dental & Vision Exams

• Mental Health Services

• School Supplies & Community Resources

• Access to School Staff: Nurses, Social Workers, Parent Specialists, and After-School Partners

Students-In-Transition Services: 314-345-5750

Register for medical services: www.slps.org/SIT

Free parking available in the garage just north of the building on 11th Street.

LEAD STL offers middle and high school students in Saint Louis Public Schools a powerful opportunity to build leadership skills, expand cultural awareness, and connect across communities.

Since 2004, LEAD STL has worked with groups of diverse SLPS students through yearlong fellowships, summer camps, and hands-on workshops designed to help them:

• Develop leadership confidence
• Learn about local history and identity
• Speak up on issues they care about
• Connect with peers from other schools and backgrounds
• Advocate for equity and change in their communities

Programs include:

• High School Fellowships (for sophomores and juniors)

• Summer Programs (starting June 6; can attend up to four weeks or just one)

• Cross-District Partnerships and Workshops

• 91% of students report increased confidence in standing up for others

• 97% believe they can make a positive difference in their community

• 98% report a stronger understanding of African American history and identity

Applications for summer programs are open through June 6th.
Applications for other yearlong fellowships are due by September 20th.

If you experience challenges with home internet access during Alternate Methods of Instruction (AMI) days, Wi-Fi hotspots are available to support virtual teaching and learning.

These resources are intended to ensure continuity of instruction during inclement weather or emergency closures. All teachers who are responsible for teaching will receive a hotspot to meet this requirement.

For support or to request a hotspot, please contact the SLPS Technology Help Desk.

Beginning in June, after already having training sessions to ensure staff are equipped with the knowledge and tools to follow updated district purchasing procedures, we will continue that training across the district. These training sessions will help improve compliance, streamline operations, and ensure alignment across departments and schools. Additional information will be provided to relevant teams.

Saint Louis Public Schools is proud to serve as the host site for the Missouri School Boards’ Association (MSBA) School Safety Academy this summer. This statewide professional learning event underscores SLPS’s leadership and commitment to building safe, supportive school environments aligned with MSIP-6 L10 safety standards.

Dates: June 24th–25th
Location: SLPS Central Office, 801 N. 11th St., St. Louis, MO 63101
Audience: School leaders, safety personnel, and district administrators from across Missouri

Topics will include:

• Threat assessment protocols

• Crisis response planning

• Comprehensive school safety strategies

This academy directly supports SLPS’s ongoing efforts to enhance school climate, increase emergency preparedness, and ensure all staff are equipped to maintain safe and responsive learning environments.

The Missouri General Assembly has passed a new law (SB 68 Section 162.207) requiring public school districts to ban student cell phone use during the school day, including during breaks and lunch periods. Exceptions will be made for students with disabilities and emergency situations.

SLPS will comply with this new legislation and is currently reviewing state guidance to determine how the policy will be implemented. To support this work, the district will convene a committee of administrators and teachers to help develop clear, consistent guidelines aligned with the expectations of the mandate.

Families will receive timely updates this summer to ensure a clear understanding of the changes prior to the start of the 2025–2026 school year.

During the summer, we will provide an update on the district’s Comprehensive School Improvement Plans (CSIP), including progress made and next steps for aligning instructional, operational, and community engagement goals across all schools. Stay tuned for more details.

As we prepare to celebrate Father’s Day, I want to take a moment to reflect on the extraordinary influence that fathers, grandfathers, uncles, mentors, and male caregivers have in our lives—and in the life of our school district.

I often think of my own father and the lasting lessons he instilled in me. As an immigrant, he faced adversity with quiet strength and unwavering purpose. He was more than a provider—he was a teacher, protector, and a true believer in the power of education. I remember him sitting with me to help with homework, sharing his own stories, and encouraging me to push beyond what I thought possible. His high expectations and constant belief in my potential shaped who I am—and continue to guide me in my role as Superintendent.

Across Saint Louis Public Schools, we see that same kind of presence and purpose in the many fathers and father figures who support our students each day. Whether through steady guidance, quiet encouragement, or bold leadership, these men make an immeasurable impact in the classroom and at home. They model resilience, responsibility, and hope—core values that our students carry with them into the future.

To all the men who show up for our students, families, and schools: thank you. Your love, consistency, and example help shape not only individual lives, but the future of our communities.

Wishing you a joyful and meaningful Father’s Day, filled with love and lasting memories.

Dr. Millicent Borishade
Superintendent, Saint Louis Public Schools

Saint Louis Public Schools is proud to announce that Collegiate School of Medicine and Bioscience has been named a 2025 Missouri Gold Star School by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

“I am absolutely thrilled and incredibly proud that Collegiate School of Medicine and Bioscience has been recognized as a 2025 Missouri Gold Star School. This prestigious honor is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our students, the exceptional talent and commitment of our educators and staff, and the strong support of our families and community.”
— Dr. Millicent Borishade, Superintendent, Saint Louis Public Schools

The Missouri Gold Star Schools program recognizes schools for outstanding academic achievement or for high performance . It aligns with the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, which highlights the highest-performing schools in the nation.

Since its inception in 1991, the Missouri Gold Star program has honored schools that exemplify excellence in teaching, learning, and school climate. Collegiate joins a select group of schools across the state that are setting the bar for academic excellence and equity.

Congratulations to the students, staff, and community of Collegiate School of Medicine and Bioscience for this well-earned recognition.

Earlier this spring, Saint Louis Public Schools celebrated the graduation of caregivers from Parent University, a program designed to equip families with tools to support their children’s academic and social-emotional success.

At the graduation ceremony, Superintendent Dr. Millicent Borishade commended participants for their dedication, saying:

“This isn’t just about helping your children—it’s about strengthening the whole school community. When you show up, our students rise. When you learn and grow, so do our classrooms and our district.”

Parent University, launched by SLPS in partnership with community organizations, is a free program offering workshops on topics such as literacy support, adolescent development, mental health, college and career readiness, and navigating district systems. Sessions were hosted at several schools and community sites throughout the spring.

A key focus of the program is building confidence and connection among families, particularly those navigating complex life challenges. As noted in coverage by St. Louis Public Radio, many participants expressed a renewed sense of empowerment and trust in the school system.

“It gave me the opportunity to feel like I’m not alone and to know how to help my daughter more effectively,” shared one graduate.

For SLPS, Parent University is part of a larger commitment to partnership and equity—recognizing that parents and caregivers are essential to student success.

“We want families to feel confident in walking into any SLPS school and knowing they are seen, valued, and heard,” Dr. Borishade added.

Congratulations to the 2025 graduates of Parent University. Your leadership is an inspiration, and your investment in your children’s futures is what makes our district stronger.

SLPS is proud to announce that Superintendent Dr. Millicent Borishade and her Executive Assistant, Ms. KassandraVanDyke, have been named recipients of the 2025 IAAP Partnership Award, presented by the International Association of Administrative Professionals.

This national honor celebrates professional partnerships that exemplify trust, collaboration, and impact—qualities that define the working relationship between Dr. Borishade and Ms. VanDyke.

After a thorough review of their nomination and interview, the IAAP Awards & Recognition Committee shared that this partnership “embodies IAAP’s core values and deserves to be acknowledged on a national stage.”

As part of the award, both will be recognized at the IAAP Annual Summit Awards Gala, taking place July 18–21, 2025, in Chicago. The award includes:

• On-stage recognition and acceptance speech during the Awards Gala
• A feature in OfficePro Magazine
• A commemorative award plaque

“This award speaks not only to the strength of our working partnership, but to the spirit of collaboration that defines SLPS. I’m honored to share this recognition with Ms. VanDyke, who is a vital part of the work we do each day,” said Dr. Borishade.

Congratulations to Dr. Borishade and Ms. VanDyke on this well-deserved national recognition!

In addition to the IAAP recognition, Ms. VanDyke was recently named a winner at the 7th Annual Admin Awards, which honor top administrative professionals across the Chicago and Midwest region.

She received this honor during the "Good as Gold" Admin Awards Gala, held May 16, 2025, at the Sheraton Grand Riverwalk in Chicago. This award reflects Ms. VanDyke’s exceptional leadership, organization, and unwavering commitment to excellence in public education.

“It’s an honor to represent SLPS and administrative professionals everywhere through this recognition,” said Ms. VanDyke. “This work matters deeply to me—and I’m proud to serve our students, families, and leadership every day.”

These achievements are a powerful reminder of the high-caliber professionals leading Saint Louis Public Schools forward—with focus, integrity, and dedication.

We are proud to honor this year’s 16 SLPS Educator of the Year honorees—individuals who go above and beyond to inspire, empower, and uplift our students every day.

Their stories, passions, and “why” are now featured in a special video series on the District’s YouTube page. Take a moment to hear directly from these outstanding educators and celebrate the dedication that drives their work.

Watch now: Saint Louis Public Schools YouTube Channel

Throughout the year, we highlighted members of the Class of 2025 who represent the values of the Portrait of a Graduate. Here's where they’re headed:

Avery H. – A story of resilience and brilliance, Avery graduated at the top of his class while overcoming leukemia—twice. Known by his stage name Verifyd, he is also a talented musician who has inspired many through his creativity and determination. Avery will attend the University of Tampa this fall, where he plans to study Business Administration and continue building his artistic and academic legacy.

Anthony R. –To say Anthony was happy to walk across the graduation stage would be an understatement. This proud Gateway STEM graduate not only excelled in the classroom, but also led the Gateway Jaguars football team to their first district championship in more than a decade. His leadership, resilience, and drive made a lasting impact on his school community. Anthony is headed to Quincy University, where he will study Business Administration and continue his athletic career on a football scholarship.

Kiera B. - Kiera’s high school journey is nothing short of remarkable. As Vashon High School’s salutatorian, she balanced academic excellence with athletic dominance, finishing her senior year as the Missouri Girls Basketball Player of the Year and a member of the All-State Basketball Team. She also became a published author, earned induction into the National Honor Society, and secured over $1 million in scholarships. This fall, Kiera will attend DePauw University, where she will continue her academic and athletic journey.

On May 7, 2025, NFL Hall of Famer Isaac Bruce, in partnership with Ameren, surprised two SLPS graduating seniors with $5,000 scholarships as part of the Isaac Bruce Foundation’s annual scholarship program.

Congratulations to:

• Jayla A., McKinley Classical Leadership Academy
• Angel D., Roosevelt High School

These outstanding students were honored for their academic achievements, leadership, and commitment to excellence. We are grateful to the Isaac Bruce Foundation and Ameren for investing in the future of SLPS graduates.

More than 300 elementary students gathered at SLPS’ Central Office for our districtwide Reading and Writing Initiative Celebration. Students showcased their original writing, reflecting remarkable growth in literacy and creative expression.

This year’s SLPS Sneaker Ball brought together students from across the district to celebrate their accomplishments in literacy and to cap off another successful year of Literacy for the Lou.

At the event, we proudly honored students who met or exceeded the 1838 Reading Challenge goal—reading 1,838 minutes in the month of April. These students demonstrated not only dedication and focus, but a true love of reading.

Thank you to all students, families, and staff who supported this initiative and made Sneaker Ball 2025 a joyful, spirited celebration of learning.

Photos from the event are featured below.

Congratulations to the fifth-grade students of Mallinckrodt Academy of Gifted Instruction, who were named the 2025 Colors of the Rainbow Team Match Champions through St. Louis Dancing Classrooms.

As Team Teal, these students demonstrated remarkable teamwork, discipline, and creativity on the dance floor—earning top honors among dozens of schools across the region. Their achievement reflects Mallinckrodt’s commitment to whole-child development and the arts as a vehicle for social growth.

St. Louis Dancing Classrooms (SLDC) is a nonprofit program inspired by the nationally recognized New York-based Dancing Classrooms model (featured in Mad Hot Ballroom), which uses ballroom dance to promote confidence, collaboration, and respect among students.

We are incredibly proud of our Mallinckrodt dancers for representing SLPS with excellence, elegance, and joy.

No worries! If you missed any past editions of the Academic Achiever, you can find them all at the link below. Stay informed and catch up on the latest SLPS news anytime!

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