SSD Webster Groves Schools
April 2022 Community Engagement Newsletter
A Garden of Learning
At the beginning of the school year, the students in the essential skills program at Webster Groves High School, started a garden utilizing the greenhouse space adjacent to the classroom. The students identified the types of vegetables that were being grown. They planted seeds, labeled the vegetables, watered, monitored progress and have been eagerly waiting for their plants to grow. In science, the students have kept a journal of the growth and have learned what is needed to help plants grow and flourish. In vocational skills, the students have cared and maintained the garden as part of work experience. The students have also learned that growing and preparing vegetables can lead to healthy eating and balanced meals. Many skills have been taught throughout the year that connect to the curriculum across subject areas, while also providing authentic learning opportunities through valuable real life experiences. There may even be a future gardener among this class of learners.
Special Olympics Happenings in the Groves….
On February 23, 2022, students at Hixson Middle School along with their best buddies participated in the BOCCEE Tournament that was held at Italia-American Bocce Club. Students had a great time and won medals. On March 1st, students participated in Special Olympics bowling, and had a great time.
The Webster Groves School district is gearing up in preparation for the Special School District (SSD) Special Olympics Track and Field Events April 12th. We are excited that we are able to bring this event back in 2022 under the leadership of the Assistant Athletic Director, Prince Munir. Webster Groves has participated in this event for 15 years and looks forward to its’ return.
The elementary students will also participate in Baseball on April 8th at Lindbergh High School.
The games have begun….stay tuned for more pictures to come!
Parent Education and Diversity Awareness (PEDA) Information
Understanding the Autism Spectrum Disorders: Two Part Class with Dr. John Bruno Autism Effective Practice Specialist April 14th and 21st 6-8pm
Identify and understand the characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorders and learn effective, practical strategies that will support your child in being more successful at home and school.
The second session will focus more on strategies, with time for discussion and questions.
Click the following link to register for this event: https://SSDPEDA.as.me/understandingautism
Congratulations to our Spring 21-22 Parent Leadership Institute (PLI) graduates!!! If you are interested in participating in a future PLI email us at ssdpeda@ssdmo.org
PEDA would love your feedback!
Lunch & Learn
Special School District’s Family and Community Outreach, Social Work, Parent Education and Diversity Awareness (PEDA), and Communications departments have teamed up to offer a virtual Lunch & Learn series for SSD families and stakeholders. The series, which will involve community organizations sharing information about their work, will take place on the first Wednesday of each month during the 2021-22 school year, from 11:30 AM - Noon.
Representatives from nine community organizations will participate in order to increase awareness about their agency and make connections with those in our SSD community who may benefit from their programs and services.
Organizations represented in the Lunch & Learn series include:
- St. Louis ARC – April 6
- St. Louis County Library – May 4