August Newsletter

The Parkway South High School Class of 1994 recently celebrated their 30th reunion with a weekend filled with nostalgia, camaraderie, and new memories. The reunion, spearheaded by Janica McEndollar and meticulously planned, brought together 170 classmates and guests for two unforgettable evenings of fun and reconnection.

The celebration kicked off on Friday night with a cocktail party at Naked Spirits, a distillery co-owned by classmate Brian Knapmiller. From 7-10 p.m., attendees enjoyed specialty cocktails with high school-themed names, including a special edition rum created just for the event. The ambiance was further enhanced by the presence of Classic Car Studio, which provided a backdrop of custom classic cars. Adding to the fun, a stilt walker dressed as a Patriot entertained the crowd.

The festivities continued on Saturday night at the Hoffman Brothers Rooftop, where 147 people, including classmates and their guests, gathered to watch the Cardinals game. The evening featured an all-inclusive bar and buffet, ensuring that everyone could relax and enjoy the game. Afterward, the celebration carried on at Ballpark Village, where classmates continued to catch up and reminisce about their high school days.

One of the highlights of the reunion was the chance to reconnect with former classmates and forge new friendships. As one attendee, Carol Lena, reflected, "We are so much better versions of ourselves than we were in high school. We are kinder, more compassionate, funnier...every great trait has blossomed. The cliques that once defined us are now non-existent, and it's been wonderful to connect with people I didn't know back then. It only fills me with Patriot Pride even more." The reunion was also a celebration of the many accomplishments of the Class of 1994, with alumni now thriving in various fields, from medicine and law to business and the arts.

Adding to the reunion's significance were the appearances of four beloved former teachers: Mr. Chris Becker, Mr. Tim Morrison, Mr. Peter McCreary and Ms. Phyllis Thorpe. Their presence was a reminder of the lasting impact educators have on their students' lives.

The Parkway South High School Class of 1994's 30th reunion was a testament to the enduring bonds formed in high school and the shared pride in being part of such a talented and accomplished class. Here's to many more reunions and continued Patriot Pride!

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, November 2, 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. Tickets for this special evening are now on sale. Visit our website to secure yours.

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!

Dear Parkway Alumni,

As the school year begins, excitement is in the air with new opportunities on the horizon! For our alumni, it's also a time to look forward to one of the most anticipated events of the year: Homecoming 2024. This annual celebration is the perfect chance to revisit campus, reconnect with former classmates, and soak in the spirit and legacy of our high schools. Be sure to mark the date for your high school's homecoming and consider reaching out to a classmate to join you there.

We're also thrilled to announce the updated date for our annual Parkway Golf Tournament on November 2nd. This community-wide event is not just a gathering for alumni, but also for businesses, community organizations, and individuals across the Parkway community. You'll even see some of our administrators and staff out on the links! We hope you'll register to play, whether individually or as part of a foursome. It promises to be a fantastic morning and the perfect last chance to hit the greens before winter sets in.

Looking forward to seeing you at these exciting events!

Warm regards,
Kennedy Graf, South '15

Did you miss it? A familiar face graced your screens last week! North High grad Juwan Rice competed on Chopped on Food Network.

Juwan, the owner of Rated Test Kitchen, which opened in spring 2023, is not only a chef but also a photographer, food stylist, content producer, and entrepreneur.

Join us in celebrating Juwan's post-graduation successes!

Elizabeth Franklin, PWH '24 was named the 2024 Missouri Interscholastic Journalism Association’s Student Journalist of the Year. Learn more by reading the St. Louis Public Radio Morning Edition article

Brad Lander, PNH '87, a New York City comptroller, is running for Mayor. Learn more in the New York Times article. Best of luck to our grad!

This year, Parkway welcomed 162 new educators to Parkway and Special School District, and you might spot some familiar faces! We love seeing our former students return to the classroom, now as educators. Drop a comment below to wish them a successful first year! #ParkwayProud #NewEducators

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.

This August, we were thrilled to welcome back our faculty, staff, and students for what promises to be another successful year! Here's to new beginnings and a fantastic year ahead! 🎉📚 #BackToSchool

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.