SLPS and Local Congregations Join Forces for Positive Change

St. Louis —The St. Louis Public School District has formed a unique partnership with area clergy and their congregations to support academic achievement and strengthen community engagement. The St. Louis Public Schools Faith-Based Initiative brings together sixty-nine schools with over sixty congregations throughout the metropolitan area. These members of the religious community represent a variety of denominations and faiths and range in size from small congregations to mega-churches.

As part of the collaboration, congregation members volunteer their time at schools that request assistance. These members take an active role in connecting the school with the community and helping students improve academically and socially. Activities include tutoring, mentoring, and providing resources for service projects. Volunteer training is provided by the SLPS Office of Volunteer Services.

In addition to the school partnerships, SLPS hosts a Superintendent’s Clergy Connection Luncheon on the first Thursday of each month. At the gatherings, Superintendent Diana Bourisaw meets with faith-based leaders to update them on the district’s progress and needs. A guest speaker also highlights a specific program that the district has introduced. Faith-based leaders learn what is happening in the schools, and then share the news with their congregations and communities. The luncheons take place at the New Northside Conference Center, 5939 Goodfellow Blvd.

Superintendent Bourisaw said, “Positive strides occur with the support and advocacy of faith-based organizations. Like our schools, churches, synagogues and mosques are cornerstones of the community. By joining forces, we can create a bright future for our children.”

For more information about the SLPS Faith-Based Initiative, contact Karen Hylton, Community Outreach Coordinator, at 314.345.4689 or karen.hylton@slps.org.

SPECIAL EVENT ON FEBRUARY 29

This Friday, February 29, clergy leaders will visit elementary schools to read to students and speak about the importance of literacy and college preparation. This all-day event is part of the district’s reading initiative A Million Minutes by March. For specific locations and times, contact Eric Little at 314.345.2377