Special School District of St. Louis County

The Board Brief is a review of actions taken by the SSD Board of Education. It is another way SSD is working to be transparent and improve communication, helping to keep our community informed.

Learn more: https://buff.ly/QK5ROIo

SSD's Board of Education will hold a Business meeting on Tuesday, July 28, beginning at 5:45 PM.

Topics for the meeting include partnership agreements and a presentation on a coordinator/principal collaboration tool.

For more information, visit www.ssdmo.org/Board

The meeting will be live-streamed on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/specialschooldistrictofstlouiscounty

International leaders visited Summit Academy to learn from Missouri's approach to youth justice 🌍

SSD recently welcomed Jake Richards, the United Kingdom's Minister for State, to Summit Academy as part of an international visit exploring how education plays a vital role in youth rehabilitation.

The visit highlighted SSD's partnership with the St. Louis County Juvenile Court and the individualized educational supports that help students build confidence, stay engaged in learning, and prepare for a successful future.

Read more about the visit and how Summit Academy is making an impact: https://buff.ly/wp37Vj6

Sarah Kline has been selected to serve as student compliance director. Kline will be building on her nearly 20 years of experience at SSD, most recently as assistant director of compliance.

“I am honored to continue to build upon my previous experience as the assistant director of compliance supporting the District with student compliance matters. I look forward to leading with integrity and implementing supports that empower educators and support families to serve our students' special education needs.”

Read the full announcement: https://buff.ly/t3v7A8X

📢 Partner District Leadership Updates at SSD!

As a result of Emily Kresyman's transition to SSD's Director of Human Resources, Dr. Travena Hostetler will serve as special education director for Maplewood Richmond Heights School District, and Julie Schroeder will continue supporting Valley Park School District while also serving Brentwood School District.

These updates reflect SSD's ongoing commitment to providing strong leadership and support to partner districts while thoughtfully aligning resources to meet District needs.

Read the full story: https://buff.ly/55vfj5M

Emya Williams Watson has been approved as the new special education director for Ritenour School District. Williams Watson has served as special education coordinator in Ritenour since 2020.

“It is a privilege to serve the Ritenour community as the director of special education,” said Williams Watson. “I am committed to giving my very best each day to support every student, empower every educator, and partner with families and our community to ensure every learner has the opportunity to succeed.”

Read the full story: https://buff.ly/N0psf3r

Have a safe and happy Fourth of July weekend, SSD!

All SSD schools, buildings, and programs will be closed Friday, July 3, in observance of Independence Day.

Disability Pride Month is a time to celebrate the many ways disability is a powerful, beautiful part of who people are. At SSD, we are honored to serve and learn alongside students, and we recognize the joy, creativity, advocacy, and brilliance that disability identity brings into our schools every day.

We know that disability is not a deficit. It is a natural part of human diversity and an essential thread in the fabric of our schools and communities.

We believe:
- Every student deserves dignity, autonomy, and access.
- Disability inclusion is not an add-on — it is foundational.
- Celebrating disability pride means celebrating each student’s identity, voice, and potential.

We are grateful to our students who show us what creativity, perseverance, and advocacy look like every day. And to our educators, therapists, aides, families, and community partners — thank you for your unwavering commitment to equity and empowerment.

This month and every month, we encourage building a world where differences are respected and celebrated, and inclusion is foundational and necessary to learning. We challenge you to view each individual as a whole and deepen your understanding of living with disabilities.

An extreme heat warning is in effect for the St. Louis area through Friday night! ☀️

Prolonged or intense exposure to hot temperatures can cause serious heat-related illnesses. Use these tips to beat the heat and learn the symptoms of heat cramps, exhaustion, and stroke.

Need a place to cool down? Check out this list of cooling centers across St. Louis County: https://buff.ly/v7dv0gq

The Board Brief is a review of actions taken by the SSD Board of Education. It is another way SSD is working to be transparent and improve communication, helping to keep our community informed.

Learn more: https://buff.ly/KjuMCns