November 2012 - Point Elementary

NOVEMBER 2012
Mehlville Messenger
A Mehlville School District Publication
Construction Begins on Auditorium, Tennis Complex
he Mehlville School District will soon be in full construction mode,
to seeing the project completed next fall.” The project is being funded by
T
as not one but two major projects have been approved by the school
refunds from the Certificates of Participation (COPs) that the District
board and the contracts awarded to local construction companies.
issued during Proposition P, the building improvement bond issue passed
On Oct. 17, the board voted to approve
a contract with Wright Construction
Services, which submitted a base bid
of $5,134,000 to build the 20,300
square foot auditorium. The building
will be located on the Mehlville
campus, right next to the high school.
Designed as a multipurpose facility, the
auditorium will support a variety of
academic, musical, theatrical and civic
events. The facility will have a seating
capacity of 522, which will comfortably
accommodate large, intermediate and
small audiences. The auditorium is
expected to open in the Fall of 2013.
The building will have an 1,800 square
foot lobby, which includes a ticket room
for general sales and will-call ticket
pickup. The auditorium will be flanked
by student dressing rooms, a dedicated
costume storage room and a 1,400
square foot stagecraft shop used for the
construction of scenery that supports
theatrical and musical performances.
in 2000.
Ground was broken on Monday, Oct.
15, for the Mehlville School District’s
new tennis complex, which will be
located in front of Bernard Middle
School on Forder Road. The complex
will have eight tennis courts and serve
as the home for the Mehlville and
Oakville High School tennis teams.
Artist rendering of the auditorium to be built on the Mehlville High School campus.
The tennis complex is being
built under United States Tennis
Association (USTA) guidelines, and
four of the courts will have additional
markings for junior play. Grants from
the USTA and the United States
Tennis Association Missouri Valley
are helping make the tennis complex
construction possible. Dr. Knost said,
“There will no longer be a need to rent
facilities for our practices and students
can be proud of the facility their
schools have to offer.”
Approximately $80,000 in grants and
rebates will keep the District’s costs for
this project below the allotted budget
of $450,000, which also includes ten
foot tall fencing around the courts
and extensive sewer work beneath
the complex. The court surfaces will
be painted blue with the paved area
surrounding the courts painted green.
The
state-of-the-art
auditorium,
with theater-style seating, has been
acoustically designed for a wide range of
uses. That design includes two locations
for a programmable lighting console,
video recording equipment, digital audio
recording capabilities, a high output
projector and a motorized on-stage
District leaders gather for Tennis Complex groundbreaking.
School Board president Venki
projection screen. The stage is 40 feet
Palamand said, “These new courts will not only benefit students, but the
deep and 44 feet wide so it can easily accommodate large choral and
many residents of Oakville and Mehlville who enjoy playing tennis and
instrumental performances by students of all ages.
staying active.”
Mehlville School District Superintendent Dr. Eric Knost said, “Having
Because the paint used on the court surfaces needs seven straight days of
appropriate curricular facilities for our state- and nationally-recognized
temperatures above 50 degrees to dry, completion of the complex is not
performing arts programs in this District are long overdue. I’m thrilled
expected to happen until the Spring of 2013.
to see the District’s first auditorium become a reality and I look forward
www.mehlvilleschooldistrict.com
Page 1
Board of Education
Venki Palamand
President
Elaine Powers
Vice President
Larry Felton
Secretary
Kathleen Eardley
Director
Ron Fedorchak
Director
Rich Franz
Director
Mark Stoner
Director
F RO M T H E BOARD PRESIDENT
A
few years ago, I met some researchers employed by
Monsanto, whose field of study Bioinfomatics was
unfamiliar to me. While they did their best to provide an
explanation, I had a hard time understanding what they
did to earn a living. Even today, Wikipedia’s definition
of Bioinfomatics as “a branch of biological science which
deals with the study of methods for storing, retrieving
and analyzing biological data, such as nucleic acid
(DNA/RNA) and protein sequence, structure, function,
pathways and genetic interactions” gives me only a vague
understanding of the field.
Executive Staff
Dr. Eric Knost
Superintendent
Dr. Lisa Counts
Assistant Superintendent
– Supervision of Schools
Dr. Brian Lane
Assistant Superintendent
– Supervision of Schools
Dr. Tina Plummer
Assistant Superintendent
– Curriculum, Assessment
and Professional
Development
Mr. Noel Knobloch
Chief Financial Officer
Dr. Scott Hayes
Executive Director
- Special Services
The Mehlville Messenger is
published by the Communications
Department four times a year for
Mehlville School District residents,
businesses and families. Its
purpose is to inform the public of
District news, student achievements
and community involvement
activities. Please submit questions,
letters and comments to:
Communications Department
3120 Lemay Ferry Road
St. Louis, MO 63125
(314) 467-5153
[email protected]
In a rapidly changing world, jobs involving Epigenetics,
4G Wireless Technology or Hybrid Automotive
Engines can be dynamic career opportunities for today’s
youth, even if most of us adults are only vaguely familiar
with those jobs. Our economy is skills-based and those
individuals who can fill employers’ needs, from genetics,
to mobile computing, to skilled trades such as CNC
machining, will be the ones who will have a more
financially successful future. Even with today’s high
unemployment rate, employers still have difficulty filling
certain jobs.
F RO M T H E SUPERINTENDENT
W
e recently finished our 2013-14 Kindergarten
Registration Week for the Mehlville School
District. It was a couple of months earlier than usual,
but for a very important reason. If enough children are
registered for full day kindergarten and if we have the
proper amount of classroom space, the District will try
to offer free full day kindergarten instead of charging
$2,200 in tuition. Throughout the process, we were asked
a lot of questions:
Why should students attend full day kindergarten?
Full day kindergarten programs are becoming the norm
as research continues to prove the importance of early
interventions with our children. In addition, the new
required Missouri State Standards align very well to full
day kindergarten.
Why is the District doing this now? In the past,
receiving State aid for a full day kindergarten program
was not an option in Mehlville. Now, depending on the
number of students who would enroll, the Mehlville
School District could potentially receive enough State
aid to offset the loss of tuition.
How will the Mehlville School District decide on
tuition free full day kindergarten? We must first
determine the precise number of student enrollment
so we can assess the amount of State aid we would
Page 2
Mehlville
Messenger
Mehlville Messenger
| November
2012| August 2009
Venki Palamand, Board President
Today’s challenge for education
is not just teaching the basics
but preparing students to be
successful in fields and careers
that don’t yet exist.
During the last few years at
Mehlville, we have raised the
bar for students with increased graduation requirements
as well as incentivizing them with a modified grading
system (weighted grades) at both high schools that
rewards students, via their GPA, for taking harder classes.
It is my hope that in the next 5-10 years, Mehlville will
expand our pre-engineering curriculum and facilities,
as well as offer more advanced classes in Biology,
Chemistry and Physics. Hopefully, we will also increase
the instructional hours and days for our students in
order to compete with students in other nations who
spend more time in school. Today’s students have to be
prepared for success in a global economy, not just for the
jobs of today, but for the career paths of the next two to
three decades - paths that don’t yet even exist.
Dr. Eric Knost, Superintendent
receive. We also must assess if
we have adequate facilities to
house that number of full day
kindergarten students.
Is half day kindergarten still
an option for parents? Yes.
Some parents prefer having
their children home for part of the day so a half day
program will still be available.
If tuition free full day kindergarten is offered next year,
is everyone guaranteed a full day option at their home
school? It is entirely possible that movement between
elementary schools will be necessary to accommodate all
full day requests. If we move forward with a tuition free
option, we will follow the same lottery model currently
utilized with our tuition based program.
While our kindergarten registration week has ended, it
is not too late to sign children up for the 2013-14 school
year. I urge you to call your neighborhood elementary
school this week to set up a registration appointment.
The Board of Education will vote on the Tuition Free
Full Day Kindergarten plan at its Dec. 12 meeting, and
the number of registered students before that date will
have a major impact on its decision.
Spirit Competition Highlights Mehlville-Oakville Foundation Walk-Run
M
ore than 1,000 students, parents, teachers and administrators
teamed up on Saturday, Oct. 13, for the 23rd Annual Walk-Run
that is sponsored by the Mehlville-Oakville Foundation. Nearly $5,500
was raised at the event,
which was held at Jefferson
Barracks
Park.
The
Foundation will divide
nearly $1,000 between the
schools that participated in
the Walk-Run, and $4,500
will be used to fund teacher
mini-grants.
District students and staff
participate in the Spirit
competition at the annual Walk-Run.
In the Spirit Competition that featured songs and dancing by elementary and middle school students,
the trophies for highest percentage of participation went to Rogers
Elementary and Oakville Middle.
The elementary spirit competition
trophy went to Rogers Elementary,
with runner-up trophies awarded to
Blades Elementary,
Trautwein
Elementary and Bierbaum Elementary.
Margaret Buerkle
Middle received
the middle school
spirit trophy, with
Oakville Middle
receiving the runner-up trophy.
“I want to thank all of the individuals who took the time to coordinate
the activity at their school. This event couldn’t be successful without a
great group of volunteers at every
level,” said Walk-Run co-chair
Sandy Applegate. Walk-Run cochair Marea Kluth-Hoppe added, “It
is always great to see the enthusiasm
and creativity put into the spirit
competition by the students and
staff.
The
Mehlville-Oakville
Foundation is pleased and thankful
that the support of families and
staff and our corporate donors can
be used to benefit the educational
process of the students.”
D
ave Sinclair Ford continues to be a terrific friend to
the District. On Sept. 7, the Sinclair dealership and
Ford Motor Company staffers hosted a Drive 4Ur
School fundraiser
for the Mehlville
High
School
boys’ basketball
team that raised
$6,000. Thanks to
Jacky Burton, left, Risto Kekich, right, and everyone who
helped make this such a success.
Beasley Elementary Honored as Character Fitness Model School
B
easley Elementary School celebrated its selection as a
Character Fitness Model School on Thursday, Oct. 18,
by hosting a school pep rally with the St. Louis Rams’ mascot
Rampage.
Beasley Elementary is one of only four schools to earn the
award, which is given by the CHARACTERplus organization.
The St. Louis Rams partner with CHARACTERplus to
recognize schools that exemplify Character Fitness by using a
unique blend of initiatives that engage the majority of students,
involving both core curricular and physical education/health
educators, and emphasizing nutrition, regular exercise, personal
fitness, goal-setting, peer support and service.
As a bonus for winning the award, the Rams gave the school
several hundred tickets to a recent Rams football game.
Beasley Elementary students and Rampage proudly display the CHARACTERfitness banner.
www.mehlvilleschooldistrict.com
Page 3
T
District Receives Two Awards
for School Bus Safety
he Mehlville School District has earned
awards from the Missouri Highway
Patrol and the Missouri Department of
Elementary and Secondary Education for the
safety of its bus fleet.
Mehlville School District Transportation
Director Dan Gilman said, “The safety of our
students is the District’s top priority, and these
two awards highlight the skills and dedication
shown by our mechanics each and every day.”
The District owns and operates 96 buses,
which cover nearly 1 million miles every year
transporting students to school and on field
trips, as well as taking athletes to sporting
events. Five full time mechanics are assigned
to keeping the fleet safe and reliable.
The State Patrol spent two days inspecting
every bus in the fleet and presented the
Mehlville School District with the 2012
Total Fleet Excellence Award for earning
an inspection approval rating of at least 90
percent. The Department of Elementary and
Secondary Education honored the District
with its Exemplary School Bus Maintenance
Award based on those inspections.
Transportation Director Dan Gilman, left, and FleetMaintenance Supervisor Joe Huster display award certificates.
T
he Mehlville School Board has approved the District’s tax levy
rates for the upcoming year. Residential rates will decrease by 1.4
cents while there will be slight increases in the tax rates for commercial,
agricultural and personal property.
Before the school board voted on the tax rates, Mehlville School District
Superintendent Dr. Eric Knost explained, “We are not doing anything
beyond what the voters have already approved. We have been very, very
good stewards of the taxpayers’ money in recent years. We still have the
lowest tax rate in South County schools, we are one of the lowest per
pupil expenditures and the amount of money we pay our professionals is
still practically the lowest in the area. So we are very frugal about how we
spend our money.”
4
Page 2
ny person wishing to file for
the Mehlville School District
Board of Education may do so in the
Superintendent’s office between the hours
of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 11,
2012, AND Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2013. Filing
will also take place from Wednesday, Dec.
12, 2012, THROUGH Monday, Jan. 14,
2013, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4
p.m. (Monday – Friday). An election for
two seats on the Board will be held April
2, 2013. The seats carry a three-year term.
No filings will be accepted on days when
the office is closed or when school is closed
for inclement weather.
Point Elementary Teachers Lend a
Hand at Ronald McDonald House
S
tudents throughout the Mehlville School District are the focus of
character education on a weekly, if not daily, basis. But those lessons are
also taken to heart by teachers and administrators.
On Monday, Sept. 24, Point Elementary School educators Alisha Oetting,
Ann Zimpfer, Emily LeFlore, Jenn Koenig, Sheila Serati and Debbie
Hearst headed for the Ronald McDonald House on the campus of St. John’s
Mercy Medical Center and prepared dinner for the families staying there.
Ronald McDonald Houses across the country gives out-of-town families
a free place to stay when their children need extended hospital treatment.
The St. Louis area has two Houses, one in Creve Coeur and one next to
Cardinal Glennon Hospital.
The largest tax increase is on commercial property, but the district Chief
Financial Officer Noel Knobloch stressed that the annual increase would
be about $100 for a $500,000 business in the area.
New Tax Rates
$3.6494
$3.5716
$4.0920
$4.0081
$3.6881
A
The office will be closed Dec. 21, 2012, at
1 p.m. through Jan. 2, 2013, for winter
break.
Mehlville School District Sets
2012-13 Tax Levy
Residential
Commercial
Agricultural
Personal Property
Blended Rate
District Announces
Board of Education Filing
Previous Tax Rates
$3.6634
$3.4372
$4.0897
$3.9678
$3.6661
Mehlville
Messenger
Mehlville Messenger
| November
2012| August 2009
Solar Panel Project Nearing Completion
T
he installation of solar electricity panels on five Mehlville School
District buildings is nearly complete, and the finished product will result
in economic and environmental benefits for the District. The District and
StraightUp Solar entered into a 20 year lease agreement in May, and during
the lease period the District will save an estimated $130,000 in energy costs
without any out-of-pocket expenses.
The five buildings selected
for the solar panel project
are Beasley Elementary,
Hagemann
Elementary,
Bernard Middle, Oakville
High and the Witzel
Learning Center. These
buildings were chosen
because they provide the
best physical placement for
the panels and they will give
students of all ages access to
learn about solar energy.
View of solar panels installed on the roof
of the Witzel Learning Center’s gymnasium.
The installation for each
building takes a week, as long as rain or high winds are not an issue. The
Witzel Learning Center was the first building to get the panels, which cover
the entire roof of the building’s gymnasium. The solar grids actually sit on
the roof without having bolts or other fasteners penetrating the waterproof
surface. Hagemann Elementary and Bernard Middle were next on the list
for installation, followed by Oakville High and then Beasley Elementary
wrapping up the installation process in mid-November.
StraightUp Solar will maintain one 25-kilowatt system on the roof of each
building, which will provide an estimated energy savings of $26,000 per
building over the course of the 20 year lease agreement. StraightUp Solar will
also set up a kiosk in each of the five buildings where students and teachers
can watch the solar panels in action and learn more about how the technology
turns sunlight into electricity.
O
Mehlville School District Expands
Computer Use in Classrooms
P
hase Two of the Mehlville School District’s One-To-One Open
Source Pilot Program has resulted in hundreds of students receiving
laptop computers for use in and out of the classroom. More than 500
students at Mehlville High School and Oakville High School are now
equipped with technology that will prepare them for the working world
that awaits them.
The 9th grade students enrolled in communication arts, math, science and
social studies classes have received 11-inch laptops with protective cases.
The computers are being divided evenly between students at Mehlville
High and Oakville High. The students will use the computers during
their entire high school career and are responsible for their appropriate
use and care.
“Being computer literate is no longer
an option for high school students,”
said Superintendent Dr. Eric Knost.
“Whether their next step involves
college or the beginning of a career
in the working world, young men
and women need to have the skill set
and comfort level with computers
that will maximize their future
successes.”
MHS student receives new laptop.
The estimated cost of Phase Two of the pilot program is nearly $450,000.
The District has hired an additional technology staff member to provide
technical support and laptop maintenance for both high schools. The
District will continue to review the success of the program’s second phase
to determine how it should evolve in the future.
Mehlville School District Complies With Asbestos Regulations
n Oct. 22, 1986, President Ronald Reagan signed into law the
Asbestos Hazard Emergency Act (AHERA, Public Law 99519). The law required the EPA to develop regulations which provide
a comprehensive framework for addressing asbestos problems in public
and private elementary and secondary schools to inspect for friable and
non-friable asbestos, develop asbestos management plans that address
asbestos hazards in school buildings, and implement response actions in
a timely fashion.
The Mehlville School District had conducted a complete inspection of
its facilities in June 1988, and a three-year reinspection in June 1991. It
also conducted inspections in June 1994, 1997, 2000, 2005, 2008 and in
2011. Two, six-month surveillance inspections also occurred. The results
of these inspections have been included in a management plan. This
management plan is available in the District’s Administration Building
and in the offices of each school during normal business hours, without
cost or restriction, for inspection by representatives of the EPA and the
State, and the public, including teachers, other school personnel and their
representatives and parents.
Asbestos containing material was removed from the following buildings
performed by licensed contractors using state of the art technology and
methodology. An on-site manager, project designer and a third party air
monitor were also used.
• Wohlwend Elementary School
• Mehlville High School
• Margaret Buerkle Middle School
• Witzel Building
The purpose of the federal and state regulations is to protect the health
and well-being of all persons entering the buildings of this District for
any reason.
The person in this District trained to oversee asbestos activities and ensure
compliance is Mr. Steve Habeck, Director of Facilities. As required in the
rule, Mr. Habeck is the single contact for the public to obtain information
about asbestos-related activities in the District and can be reached at
(314) 467-7800.
www.mehlvilleschooldistrict.com
5
Page 3
Margaret Buerkle Middle School Kitchen Gets Extreme Makeover
W
hile stainless steel is the current rage in home appliances, it’s a real
necessity for kitchens that serve hundreds of meals every day. At
Margaret Buerkle Middle School, stainless steel rules thanks to
a summer makeover in the cafeteria kitchen.
At a cost of more than $400,000, it was much more than a
facelift. The renovation was long overdue. “The stoves, ovens,
freezers and preparation equipment were more than old,” says
Director of School Food & Nutrition Services Katie Koester.
“When the appliance people came in to check out the facilities,
they seriously suggested that we take some of the equipment to
the PBS program Antiques
Roadshow!”
any walls in order to keep the expenses down. “The equipment is also
much more efficient, which means we’ll reduce our energy costs. And that
efficiency is also better
for the environment,”
says Koester.
Buerkle is the largest
lunch provider among the
District’s middle schools,
so creating a kitchen that’s
efficient and modern were
the main priorities. New
wiring and plumbing was
a necessity but designers
worked with the existing
structure and didn’t move
Margaret Buerkle Middle School
cafeteria employees enjoy new
surroundings.
Mehlville School District Holds 9/11 Observances
S
chools throughout the Mehlville School firefighters, paramedics and military personnel
District honored the victims of the 9/11 who protect our community on a daily basis.
terrorist attacks by holding special ceremonies Dozens of uniformed men and women
and events on the 11th anniversary of the trag- attended the lunch and were very impressed by
edy. The activities at each school varied, but the the show of student support. Bernard Middle
day began with special recitals of the Pledge of School student Madison Agers said, “I think
their reaction is that they
Allegiance.
are grateful that someone
SCOPE/SSLis recognizing them for
CMS once again
what they do because they
had an honor
are putting their lives on
guard
from
the line every day, and not
American Legion
everyone says anything
Post 162 overabout it.”
see the raising
of the American
The staff and administrators
flag, which was
at Bernard Middle School
then lowered to
American Legion Post 162 honor guard.
hope this was a lesson that
half staff in honor of
the students won’t forget. “We
the 9/11 victims. The ceremony also included want them to keep honoring and remembering
a special military rifle salute, a playing of taps our first responders when they see them in the
and the release of red, white and blue balloons community as well as here at school,” said
by students.
Bernard Middle teacher Stephanie Holler. “It
The Student Council at Bernard Middle really starts here with us educating them at
School hosted a First Responder BBQ lunch school, and they take that back with them and
as a way to thank all the police officers, spread the news.”
Page 6
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Mehlville
Messenger
Mehlville Messenger
| November
2012| August 2009
In the old arrangement,
students actually had to
enter the kitchen area
to pick up their food.
The redesign moved
the lunch line into
the main area of the
cafeteria, which helps
the lines move faster
so students can spend
more time eating and
less time waiting.
Town Hall Meeting
S
uperintendent Dr. Eric Knost hosted
a Town Hall Meeting on Oct. 22 as
part of his continued efforts to meet faceto-face with Mehlville School District
residents. These forums have no formal
agenda so guests can ask any question
related to school programs, policies and
activities. Much of the conversation focused
on the new auditorium and tennis complex
projects. Thanks to all who attended!
Superintendent Dr. Eric Knost speaking
to guests at the Town Hall Meeting.
H
Blades Elementary School Celebrates 40th Anniversary
undreds of past, present and future Blades
Elementary School alumni gathered on
Thursday, Oct. 11, as the school celebrated its
40th anniversary. The crowd was treated to
special performances by the school’s Character
Choir and the Percussion Ensemble and Strings.
Blades Principal Jeremy Booker says the school’s
mission hasn’t changed in the past 40 years. “We
have energetic teachers who sacrifice themselves
for our students,” said Booker. “We’re building
strong character students here. These are people
who will go out in the world and know to care
about each other.”
Among the highlights of the evening was a visit
by Geraldine Blades, the widow of Dr. Thomas
Blades. Dr. Blades was a teacher and a principal in
the District before being named superintendent
in 1976. He spent 27 years working for the
Mehlville School District, and the elementary
school now bears his name.
Mehlville
Visitors to the Blades Elementary anniversary
party also had the opportunity to leave their mark
at Blades by decorating a cafeteria wall brick. Each
person painting a brick made a $10 donation to the
Mehlville-Oakville Foundation.
Superintendent Dr. Eric Knost, left, and Blades
Principal Jeremy Booker welcome Mrs. Blades to the party.
Guests view yearbooks, pictures and share memories of Blades Elementary throughout the years.
‘Coffee Cart’ Gives Life Skills to WMS Students
E
very morning at Washington Middle School, you can hear the cart come rolling down
the halls and you can smell the freshly brewed coffee. The Eagle’s Nest Coffee Cart is a
welcome sight for teachers who need a quick jolt of caffeine or a chilled can of soda.
But the Coffee Cart is much more than a beverage and snack service. The students who
operate the cart are part of the Special School District classrooms at Washington Middle
School. Carla Coats is an SSD teacher who coordinates the Coffee Cart activities. She
explains, “We pair a child who is a bit more social with a child who is more structured. The
two who are working that day have to wash their hands so we are very clean. They have to stock
the cart with sodas. They need to put the coffee on. They need to make sure that we have all the
creams and that the cart is clean.”
Each of the preplanned steps gives the students an important lesson on following directions,
making correct change and providing good customer service. Those skills will help get these
middle school children prepare for jobs during or after high school. And working on the coffee
cart gives special education students a chance to spend time with the general school population.
“This has allowed them to get in there and break down that barrier by saying, ‘Hi, how can I help
you?’ when they meet those teachers and so they are becoming more relaxed,” said Coats.
WMS Eagle’s Nest Cafe and Cart workers
Mark, Jonathan and Mrs. Coats.
All the money raised through the sale of coffee and snacks is used to fund other SSD community programs, such as helping students with their social
skills by taking them out to the grocery store or a movie theatre. Coats says, “Every parent’s want and goal is to have their children live independently
or with assistance. That’s what we are doing here. We are providing that structure.”
www.mehlvilleschooldistrict.com
Page 3
7
District High Schools Participate in Homecoming Activities
T
he Dark Knight was the theme of the Mehlville High School
Homecoming, which kicked off with a parade and football game
on Sept. 21, followed by the Homecoming Dance on Sept. 22.
Page 8
2
U
nder the Sea was the theme of the Oakville High School
Homecoming, which kicked off with a parade and football game
on Sept. 28, followed by the Homecoming Dance on Sept. 29.
Mehlville
Messenger
Mehlville Messenger
| November
2012| August 2009
St. Patrick Center Wins
as Oakville, Mehlville High Schools Wage Underwear Wars
T
he annual showdown between
the Mehlville and Oakville high
school football teams on Oct. 5 wasn’t
the only contest waged between the
two District schools. Students took
part in the annual ‘Underwear Wars’
competition that helps area families
in need.
For several weeks donation boxes
were set up at Mehlville High
and Oakville High, with students
dropping off new underwear for adults, children
and even diapers for babies. All the donated items
are being given to St. Patrick Center, which helps
struggling families rebuild their lives.
Oakville High School and Mehlville High School students celebrate
during Underwear Wars for charity.
At the halftime of the Oakville vs. Mehlville
football game, students from each school lined
up in a show of friendship and then the winner
was announced. Oakville High School students
collected 19,000 items to win the Underwear
Wars trophy. Mehlville students collected an
impressive 12,000 items. A representative from
St. Patrick Center was at the game and said
she was ‘overwhelmed’ by the generosity and
compassion shown by students at both schools.
M
60plus Club Members Treated
to Oktoberfest Fun at Wohlwend Elementary
ore than 150 Mehlville area residents were treated to a morning of
German fun and games as Wohlwend Elementary School hosted
the District’s 60plus Club.
Friday, Feb. 8, 2013, at Washington Middle School and Thursday, April
11, 2013, at Blades Elementary School. An invitation with further details
will be mailed to all 60plus members.
The 60plus Club meets four times a year and serves two valuable purposes.
District residents at least 60 years old get the opportunity to see what’s
happening inside District schools, and students get a chance to chat
with the guests and show off some of the things they’ve been learning.
The Oktoberfest gathering featured the Wohlwend 4th and 5th grade
choirs as well as members of the Oakville High School German Club,
who hosted a German-themed Bingo game. The 60plus Club members
were also treated to a mid-morning brunch which was put together by
the District’s School Food & Nutrition Services staff and served by
Wohlwend students.
Mehlville residents 60 years
of age or older can obtain a
60plus Gold Card by calling
the
Communications
Department at (314) 4675153. The 60plus Gold Card
is your ticket to Mehlville
School
District
home
sporting events, band and
strings concerts, choral
performances and school
plays at no cost.
The next 60plus event will be a holiday luncheon that will be held at Forder
Elementary School on Thursday, Dec. 6. Other events are scheduled for
60plus guests enjoy Oktoberfest
at Wohlwend Elementary School.
www.mehlvilleschooldistrict.com
Page 3
9
DIS T IN C T I O N S
Assistant Principal Earns Ph.D.
Washington Middle and Trautwein Elementary
assistant principal Patrick Keenoy recently earned his
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) from the Saint Louis
University College of Education and Public Service.
MHS Junior’s Writing to be Published
Dr. Patrick Keenoy
Mehlville High School junior Marlee Cox is being
honored by the Alliance For Young Artists and Writers. Marlee’s short
story Sonata in the Key of Bea will be included in the publication
The Best Teen Writing of 2012. More than 200,000 works of art and
writing were submitted for consideration. Marlee was among the top 70
students selected for The Best Teen Writing.
Sophomore Selected for Opera Theatre Concert Program
Mehlville High School sophomore Abby Powers has been selected
as one of 20 members of the Opera Theatre of St. Louis Artists-InTraining program. Abby will receive private voice lessons with a vocal
instructor at the University of Missouri-St. Louis and will be involved
for the entire year with Opera Theatre of St. Louis concerts, events,
retreats and other amazing opportunities.
Middle School Student Selected to JazzU
Margaret Buerkle Middle School eighth grader
Sam Meyer has been selected to be part of the
prestigious JazzU music program. Meyer, who plays
the saxophone and is a member of the Buerkle
Symphonic and Jazz Bands, is the only student from
the Mehlville School District to be included in the
program. JazzU is a competitive program which
selects 50 emerging musicians from the Greater St.
Sam Meyer
Louis area for small group and combo jazz training.
Seniors Named National Merit Semifinalists
Oakville High School senior David Gerding
and Mehlville High School senior Kristin Lenz
have qualified as National Merit Scholarship
semifinalists. Both plan to attend
college where Gerding says he plans to
study engineering while Lenz has the
goal of becoming a veterinarian.
David Gerding,
above, and
Kristin Lenz,
left.
OHS News Broadcast Program Named a Pacemaker Finalist
The 2012 Channel 97 News broadcast program at Oakville High School
has been named a Pacemaker finalist in the monthly broadcast category
by the National Scholastic Press Association. OHS is one of just five
schools in the nation to be named a finalist in this category. A Pacemaker
is the highest honor a school can receive in scholastic publications.
Mehlville High Varsity Softball Players Honored
Mehlville High School seniors Michelle Boyer, Jenna Parrott,
Amanda Lerbs and junior Kayla Hezel were named to the 2012
MHSFCA Softball All-District 2 first team. Boyer, Parrott and Lerbs
were also named to the Suburban West All-Conference 2012 second
team, while Hezel received an Honorable Mention.
Page 10
2
Mehlville Majorettes Win Competition
The Mehlville High School Mehlville Majorettes won the USA/World
Open High School Majorette Line Half Time Show Championship
with their routine titled “Dangerous” at the National Baton Twirling
Association’s USA/World Championship Competition in July at the
Notre Dame University Campus. This is their third consecutive year
of winning the half time show category. The girls also competed in the
USA/World Open High School Majorette Line Dance Twirl Team
championship, receiving second place for their baton twirling and dance
routine performance to “We’re Dancing.”
MHS and OHS Debate Team
Debate team students from Mehlville
and Oakville High Schools competed at
the Parkway South Novice Invitational
on Oct. 12-13. Mehlville High senior
Armin Sinanovic won second place in
Congressional Debate and was awarded
‘Outstanding Speaker.’ Oakville High
sophomore Nicole Carey finished in third
place and senior Colin Robinson finished
fourth. Mehlville High juniors Chris King
and Erich Kaletka placed fourth in Public
Forum debate.
From left: Nicole Carey,
Armin Sinanovic, Chris King
and Erich Kaletka.
MHS Senior Named Outstanding Student Leader
Mehlville High School senior Brooke McManus was named an
Outstanding Student Leader by the St. Louis County Department of
Human Service, County Youth Program. The Outstanding Student
Leader Program is designed to recognize each individual student’s
leadership ability, their contributions to school and community, their
high personal standards and citizenship.
OHS Senior’s Photo Chosen for Art Exhibit
Oakville High School senior Lucy Right has been chosen by the
Sheldon Art Galleries to be part of the exhibit ArtParty: Young Artists
Celebrate the Centennial as the Sheldon Concert Hall building
celebrates its 100th anniversary this season.
Right’s black and white photo titled ‘The
Dream’ was selected by The Sheldon from
submissions that came throughout the area.
2012 Oakville High graduates Kimberly
Bonsignore and Annie Leonard were also
selected to participate in the exhibit. All
three students have been part of Mrs. Joan
Larson’s Honors Photography 2 class.
OHS Photography teacher Joan
Larson, left, and Lucy Right.
Bierbaum Elementary Students Place Second in Chess Tournament
A team of students from Bierbaum Elementary placed 2nd in the Fifth
Grade & Under section at the Crossroads Elementary School Chess
Tournament. Congratulations to fifth grader Nick Durkovic, third
graders Ben Durkovic and Derian Ryker and kindergartner Roman
Ryker. 24 schools from the greater St. Louis area participated in the
chess tournament.
Mehlville
Messenger
Mehlville Messenger
| November
2012| August 2009
M
ehlville School District Community Enrichment program provides
additional educational opportunities to students and the community.
Following is a list of some of the classes offered on the winter/spring
schedule. The full schedule will be available online at community-educat.
mehlvilleschooldistrict.com beginning Dec. 1, 2012.
KhrisArt (grades 1-5) - an extra-curricular art/drawing program that builds
technical skills while encouraging individual expression. For more information
email Khris at [email protected]. Six classes. Session 1 begins Jan.
31, 2013; Session 2 begins April 4, 2013. Fee: One session for $90 or BOTH
sessions for $175. Thursday, Oakville Elementary, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Watercolor Painting for Kids (grades 5-8) & Adults (age 18 & over) learn various watercolor painting techniques and processes while exploring
landscapes, abstract art, animals and flower paintings. Students need to bring a
watercolor sketchbook, watercolor paints, paint brushes and watercolor pencils
to class. Six classes beginning Jan. 30, 2013. Fee: $25. Grades 5-8: Wednesday,
Oakville High, Room 311, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. (no class: 2/27). Adults:
Wednesday, Oakville High, Room 311, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. (no class: 2/27).
Abra-Kid-Abra Balloonatics (grades 1-5) - learn to create colorful balloon
animals and hats. Six classes beginning Jan. 31, 2013. Fee: $75, all supplies
included. Thursday, Oakville Elementary, 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. (no class: 2/14).
Chess Class (age 6-18 years) - the Chess Club and Scholastic Center of
Saint Louis, in partnership with the Mehlville School District, offers weekly
chess lessons for students of varying skills. Eight classes beginning Jan. 23,
2013. Fee: $50. Wednesday, Bierbaum Elementary, 4 to 5 p.m.
En Passant Chess Club (age 5-18 years) - the staff of the National
Champion En Passant Chess Club provides chess instruction to children
that are five years of age through high school senior. No prior experience is
necessary. Seven classes beginning Jan. 28, 2013. Fee: $70. Monday, Blades
Elementary, 3:25 to 4:25 p.m. (no class: 2/18).
Beginner Belly Dance (age 14 & up) - this class will explore the basics of
classical Egyptian belly dance moves and focus on developing core muscles
and increasing flexibility, grace and physical stamina. One class on March 5,
2013. Fee: $15. Tuesday, Mehlville High School Aerobic Room, 7 to 9 p.m.
Beginner Hoop Dance (age 16 & up) - the art of Hoop Dancing is a fun
way to burn calories and tone your waistline. It’s all about posture and using
power points on your body to keep the hoop up. Four classes beginning Feb.
4, 2013. Fee: $30. Monday, Mehlville High Aerobic Room, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
(no class: 2/18).
Beginner Line Dancing (age 18 & up) - learn the basic steps of line dancing
and how to link the steps together to form the entire dance. Shoes with leather/
suede soles recommended. Six classes. Session 1 begins Feb. 5, 2013; Session 2
begins April 2, 2013. Fee: $36. Tuesday, Bernard Middle, 7 to 8:30 p.m.
Dance Blast (age 18 & up) - incorporates various styles of dance in an easy
to follow dance aerobic class. Each routine will be demonstrated in an easy
to follow manner and can be high impact or low impact based on personal
desire. Six classes. Session 1 begins Feb. 5, 2013; Session 2 begins April 2,
2013. Fee: $30 for a one day a week session or $50 for a two day a week
session. Tuesday &/or Thursday, SCOPE, 4:45 to 5:45 p.m.
Coffee University (age 18 & up) - powered by Starbucks, this three night
series covers coffee tasting, coffee blends and the art of roasting. Session 1
begins Jan. 28, 2013; Session 2 begins March 4, 2013; Session 3 begins April
8, 2013. Fee: $30, includes a half pound of coffee and a Starbucks travel mug.
Monday, Starbucks at 12460 Tesson Ferry Road, 63128, 7 to 8:30 p.m.
Girls in the Know (girls ages 9-13 & their moms) - designed to educate
and empower girls with their moms, or a mother figure, to encourage positive
decisions and healthy behaviors. Four classes beginning April 4, 2013. Fee:
$108 ($25 for each additional daughter) ($90 GITK fee + $18 Mehlville
facility fee). Thursday, Bernard Middle, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Using the Spanish Language (age 12 & up) - learn Spanish through fun,
simplified lessons stressing pronunciation, basic grammar and verb usage. No
prior Spanish experience required. Six classes beginning April 3, 2013. Fee:
$30. Wednesday, Mehlville High, 6 to 8 p.m.
Beginner Photography Class (age 12 & up) - learn the fundamentals
of digital photography, composition and how to get the most out of your
camera. Three classes. Session 1 begins Jan. 16, 2013; Session 2 begins Feb. 6,
2013; Session 3 begins March 6, 2013; Session 4 begins April 10, 2013. Fee:
$60. Wednesday, Mehlville High, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Tennis (grades 3-12) - a recreational program that will give students an
opportunity to learn the game and have fun in the process. Racquets and balls
are provided. Six classes. Session 1 begins the week of Jan. 28, 2013; Session 2
begins week of April 1, 2013. Fee: $66. Tuesday, Bernard Middle; Wednesday,
Oakville Middle; Thursday, Washington Middle. Class times vary by age.
Computer Explorers: Video Game Animation (grades 3-5) - create
animation characters that dance, sing and interact with one another. Add
sound effects and music clips to create a dynamic video animation. 10 classes
beginning the week of Jan. 29, 2013. Fee: $115. Tuesday, Oakville Elementary,
6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Youn Wha Tae Kwon Do (all ages & abilities) - participants begin by
learning the basics of Tae Kwon Do, and over time will have the opportunity
to advance and earn higher belts, progressing to more advanced techniques.
Six classes. Session 1 begins Feb. 6, 2013; Session 2 begins April 3, 2013. Fee:
$50. Wednesday, Oakville Elementary, 7 to 8 p.m.
The Mehlville pool, located on the Mehlville High School campus, offers
many swimming options for all ages.
Learn to Swim/Stroke Improvement (age 3 & up) - children learn to swim
from instructors certified by the American Red Cross. Seven classes. Session
1 begins Jan. 19, 2013; Session 2 begins March 9, 2013. Fee: one session: $35,
both sessions: $65.
Pre-Swim Team (all ages with tryout) - this is a time for coached lap
swimming. Session 1: Jan. 29-March 21, 2013; Session 2: April 2-May 24,
2013. Fee: $100. Sunday: 1 to 2 p.m.; Tuesday & Friday: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.;
Thursday: 6 to 7 p.m.
Swimnastics (age 18 & up) - Monday & Wednesday: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.;
Thursday: 10 to 11 a.m. Eight classes. Session 1 begins week of Jan. 14, 2013;
Session 2 begins week of April 8, 2013. Fees: adult one-day session: $30; twoday session: $45; three-day session: $60. Age 60 and up: one-day session: $20;
two-day session: $30; three-day session: $40.
Driver’s Education (age 15 & up) - for students age 15 and older. Includes
classroom time, 12 hours of simulation, and three hours of behind the wheel
driving. Class meets for three weeks, Monday through Thursday, from 4 to
6:30 p.m. There is some Friday and weekend driving required. Session 1: Jan.
7-Jan. 29, 2013; Session 2: Feb. 4-Feb. 25, 2013; Session 3: March 4-March
21, 2013; Session 4: April 8-April 25, 2013. Location: Room 102 of the
Witzel Learning Center, 3100 Lemay Ferry Road, St. Louis, MO 63125.
Fees: $175 for district residents, $200 for non-residents.
All Swimming and Driver’s Education classes registration will open on Nov.
12, 2012, at 8:30 a.m. in the Witzel Learning Center, Room 206, 3100 Lemay
Ferry Road, St. Louis, MO 63125. Registration for all other classes will
begin Dec. 1, 2012. For more information on the Community Enrichment
program, call (314) 467-7822.
www.mehlvilleschooldistrict.com
Page
Page11
3
ECRWSS
Attn: Postal Patron
Permit No. 1804
St. Louis, MO
PAID
Search Mehlville School District on Facebook and
you’ll find photos and videos of all the great things
happening in all our schools. Make sure to ‘like’ us
when you visit!
‘Like’ Us On Facebook
Nov. 2
MHS Mothers’ Club Trivia Night, 7 p.m., Royale Orleans
Banquet Center
Nov. 6
No School - Professional Development / Workday
Nov. 7
BOE Meeting, 7 p.m., Administration Building
Nov. 8, 9, 15, 16 MHS Fall Play - The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940,
7 p.m., MHS Drama Center
Nov. 8, 9, 15, 16 OHS Fall Play - Mousetrap, 7 p.m., OHS Drama Center
Nov. 12
Bernard Middle School Veteran’s Day Concert, 7 p.m.
Nov. 15
2-Hour Early Dismissal
Nov. 15
Taste of Beasley, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., Beasley
Elementary School
Early Release
Nov. 21
Nov. 22 & 23
No School - Thanksgiving
Nov. 29
BOE Meeting, 7 p.m., Administration Building
Dec. 1 & 2
Oakville Band Parents’ Association Arts & Craft Fair,
Sat. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sun., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., OHS
2-Hour Early Dismissal
Dec. 11
Dec. 12
BOE Meeting, 7 p.m., Administration Building
Dec. 20, 21
Early Release PreK-12/Finals 6-12
Dec. 22-Jan. 2
No School - Winter Break
Jan. 3
School Resumes
Jan. 10
BOE Meeting, 7 p.m., Administration Building
Jan. 16
2-Hour Early Dismissal
Jan. 21
No School - Dr. Martin Luther King Day
Jan. 22
No School - Professional Development / Workday
Jan. 24
BOE Meeting, 7 p.m., Administration Building
Feb. 1
Mehlville-Oakville Alumni Association Fourth Annual
Trivia Night, 7 p.m., Andre’s Banquet Hall
Feb. 7
2-Hour Early Dismissal
Find District event information at www.mehlvilleschooldistrict.com
IMPORTANT DATES
3120 Lemay Ferry Road
St. Louis, MO 63125
(314) 467-5000
Non-Profit
U.S. Postage
NOVEMBER 2012
Auditorium and Tennis Courts Update.....................Page 1
Board President Note................................................Page 2
Superintendent Note................................................Page 2
District and School News.................................... Pages 3-9
Distinctions............................................................. Page 10
Community Enrichment......................................... Page 11
IN THIS ISSUE
Bierbaum Elementary
students and Fredbird
“Doin’ It Right” by
saying yes to learning
and no to drugs.
Mehlville Messenger
A MEHLVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT PUBLICATION