Early childhood special education teacher Jillian Sweeney was recognized for earning the 2020-2021 Missouri Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (MACTE) Outstanding Beginning Teacher Award. The surprise presentation came from Dr. Jessica Leonard and Dr. Joy Voss from Saint Louis University School of Education during a staff professional development meeting on Jan. 15.
Five students in PEGS - Program for Exceptionally Gifted Students and Rose Acres fifth grader Aubrey Holdren held a book signing today after they were named finalists in the St. Louis Writers Guild Young Writers Contest and had their stories published in a collection.
Fourth graders Aliyah Brown and Eva Pulley; fifth graders Devin Garner, Hannah Hope and Harrison Vandernoot; and Holdren had to write an original story that began with the first line of "Beneath the mask …”
The Pattonville Board of Education on Jan. 12 approved the selection of Teisha Ashford as principal of Pattonville High School, effective July 1. She replaces Dr. Joe Dobrinic, who will retire in June.
“Mrs. Ashford brings a wealth of knowledge and experience as an instructional leader supporting middle and high school students, staff and families,” said Dr. Tim Pecoraro, superintendent. “She will do an excellent job building strong relationships with our students, staff and families and continuing to lead PHS on the path of academic excellence. Please join me in welcoming Mrs. Ashford to her new role."
Ashford currently serves as Pattonville’s director of student services. Prior to taking on a district leadership role, she served as principal of Holman Middle School for eight years. She also worked as an assistant principal at Pattonville Heights Middle School and a science teacher at Holman and the high school. Ashford also taught middle school science in the Hazelwood School District. She holds a bachelor’s degree in biology and a master’s degree in educational leadership and policy studies from the University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL). Ashford is also a 2021 candidate for a specialist’s degree in educational leadership and a doctorate degree in educational leadership and policy studies, both from UMSL.
The Pattonville Board of Education on Jan 12 approved a bond refunding that will save the district $1.3 million, or 8%, in interest payments over the next several years. The board authorized Stifel, Nicolaus & Company to refinance $13.5 million in debt owed on the district’s 2010 zero tax rate increase bond issue. Thompson Coburn was authorized as the bond counsel.
Villemade Students: A reminder that textbook and supply pick-up will be today and Wednesday from 2:30pm to 4:30pm in B102. Students may also return supplies and books from first semester.