From the Desk of…
Diana Bourisaw, Superintendent
Virtual schooling growing at K-12 level
A story published Friday by The Associated Press indicates
that virtual schools are growing fast across the country. That’s
old news for the St. Louis Public Schools, where we have launched
our own program.
The SLPS Virtual School Program received wide coverage this
week at a news conference held at Patrick Henry Elementary.
The media seemed genuinely interested in the concept.
St. Louis Public Schools implemented the Virtual School Program
for three reasons:
- to address the needs of families currently served by SLPS
- to attract families back to SLPS that have left the district
- to attract families to SLPS that are not currently served
by the district
Thanks to Virtual Schools Director Jo Ann Reese, reporters
also had the opportunity to view three sisters and their father
as they took part in an online demonstration. The girls have
been home-schooled. Their father is representative of parents
who are taking a second look at SLPS offerings.
ESOL Enrollment Increases
Enrollment in the St. Louis Public Schools’ ESOL program
has been on the rise since June. On average, almost ten students
register every week. Refugees from Burma and Burundi make up
a large percentage of new students. There has also been a steady
increase in enrollment among Hispanic immigrants. Refugee resettlement
agencies – the International Institute and Catholic Charities – report
that the district can expect another influx in enrollment in
the next few months.
The ESOL program provides English language instruction and
content-area assistance to students in kindergarten through
12th grade. The International Welcome Center is located at
3125 S. Kingshighway. For more information, contact Nahed Chapman
at Nahed.Chapman@slps.org or 314-776-1686, ext. 102.
Mark Your Calendars for a Busy October Weekend
- Beautification Day -
For the first time, the St. Louis Public Schools will hold
a district-wide Beautification Day on Saturday, October 13.
Each school will select and complete at least one project that
will help create a welcoming presence in their facility. The
day provides a wonderful opportunity to engage students, parents,
alumni, and neighborhood organizations. It also allows the
community to see positive activity going on at all SLPS buildings.
Work hours will be scheduled by the schools. Join in on the
fun!
- Magnet School Open House -
The second annual Magnet School Open House will be held on
Saturday, October 13. The public is invited to visit any of
the twenty-four magnet schools from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Parents
who are interested in sending their child to a magnet school
will have an opportunity to talk to administrators, ask questions
regarding the specialty programs, and receive informational
materials and applications.
Bragging Rights
Start bragging about the parental involvement at your schools!
We know our parents are great. We’re providing a new
opportunity to promote notable parent events and examples of
parent involvement. We will begin featuring events in the weekly
message. Please submit stories and news to Kate Stewart, Interim
Marketing Coordinator, Office of Public Information, at kate.stewart@slps.org.
No Hassle Information
Are you tired of annoying credit report and insurance solicitations?
There is now a safe and secure way to have your name removed
from these lists. Call 1-888-5OPT-OUT. Your information will
be withheld for five years.
The fireworks begin today. Each diploma is a lighted match.
Each one of you is a fuse.
Edward Koch (Former New York City Mayor)
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