We stopped by Woodridge Middle School this morning, where MAP testing is going strong and classroom learning never stops. For example, in Mr. Cathcart's class, students were diligently working on packets about the moon and its phases.
What does it take to plan a city? Our 4th and 5th grade CATS students found out as they created their own box cities. They learned about zoning, architecture, sustainability, and city layouts. From touring Washington, MO to filing building permits and designing unique structures, students became city planners and architects, gaining a whole new appreciation for how communities are built and thrive. Last night, they showcased their work and what they learned for their families.
Yesterday was College Signing Day at Northwest High School. These nine athletes have signed letters of intent to continue their athletic careers in college.
Congratulations to:
Rose Consolino, Jefferson College Softball
Chase Dodge., Waldorf University Baseball
Sydney Francis, Maryville University Dance
Matthew Johnson, Missouri Baptist University Volleyball
Wes Knuckles, Missouri Baptist University Football
Amelia Lawrence., Southeast Missouri State Soccer
Lyla Lehnhoff, Maryville University Stunt
Raegan Shelton, Missouri Valley Lacrosse
Jack Walton, Drury University Shotgun
This year, our 3rd and 4th grade CATS students “traveled” to Australia! They explored geography, learned fun vocabulary, discovered Aboriginal culture and Dreamtime stories, created artwork, and built 3D animal habitats, including a Great Barrier Reef! From maps to Aussie slang to learning about Australian Rules Football, everyone learned a lot and had a wonderful time showcasing what they learned to their families..
Yesterday, we held our annual retiree luncheon at Brennan Woods Elementary. Lots of conversation, hugs, and smiles were had, along with an incredible lunch by Chef Tori and the crew from our food service provider SFE. Cub Scouts from Brennan Woods presented the Colors, and BWE students provided the musical entertainment.
Thank you to all who attended! We loved seeing you, and are looking forward to next year already!
It's Nurse and Health Room Assistant Appreciation Day! THANK YOU for keeping our students (and staff) healthy and safe every day. From scraped knees to stomach aches to influenza and more, our school nurses and health room assistants do it all with kindness and professionalism. Today and every day, we appreciate you and all you do for the Northwest community!
To the incredible teachers of Lion Nation who spark curiosity, inspire dreams, and shape the future, we thank you. Your dedication goes beyond the classroom, and the impact you make lasts a lifetime. Whether it's patiently working with a kindergarten student through reading their first words or helping to make sure a senior walks across the stage on graduation night, you are the heart of our schools. This week, and every week, please know you are appreciated.
If you have had a teacher that made a difference in your life, give them a shout-out in the comments below!
It's Food Service Staff Appreciation Day at Northwest! Today, we celebrate the School Lunch Heroes behind the scenes who feed our students every day. From morning breakfast to the lunchtime rush, your dedication gives our students the fuel they need to grow and learn. Thank you for all that you do for our students and staff!
Let's all congratulate our #SupportStaffSuperstar of the week, school support interventionist Sarah Kennon from Maple Grove Elementary School! MGE principal Aubrey Bauer said of Mrs. Kennon, "She works tirelessly to ensure every child has the opportunity to be in the classroom and thrive, both academically and personally." Thank you for all you do for our students and staff, Mrs. Kennon!
It's Principal and Assistant Principal Appreciation Day! Today we celebrate the incredible leadership, dedication, and heart our principals and assistant principals bring to our schools each day. Thank you for your leadership, support, and making our schools a great place to learn and work. Your impact reaches beyond the classroom!
Congratulations to Murphy Elementary School second grade teacher Sydney Casey, this week's #TeacherProudTuesday honoree! MES principal Gretchen Gorgal said "When you walk into her classroom, you see students actively engaged as Mrs. Casey is facilitating their learning with passion and enthusiasm." Thank you for everything you do for our students, Mrs. Casey!
We are ONE WEEK away from the deadline to register for Summer School and the 2025-26 school year! Summer School is scheduled for June 2-30, 2025.
All families must complete the online registration by May 2, 2025, to ensure transportation for both 2025 Summer School and the 2025-2026 school year. If registration is not complete by the deadline, your student will not receive transportation for the first full week of summer school or for the beginning of the 2025-2026 school year.
Please visit the Northwest R-I School website at https://www.northwestschools.net/OLR to register.
What a difference a day makes on the Valley Middle School Fine Arts addition:
How it started yesterday.
How it's going today.
Join us this Saturday, April 26 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Northwest Early Childhood Center (6180 Highway MM in House Springs) for the annual District Art Show.
The District Art Show features a variety of artwork from talented Northwest students of all grade levels. Admission is free, and all are welcome. We hope to see you there!
Congratulations to Brian Beckler, custodian at Brennan Woods Elementary and this week's #SupportStaffSuperstar honoree ! BWE principal Annie Hammond said, "His positive attitude and commitment to supporting staff and students truly make a difference at BWE." Congratulations, and thank you for all you do, Mr. Brian!
Today is Administrative Assistant Appreciation Day, where we celebrate our amazing administrative assistants who keep everything running smoothly. Your behind-the-scenes magic keeps our district running smoothly. Thank you for all you do for our students, staff, and families!
A bonus post to honor our Special Olympians, who competed today at Desoto High School. It was a beautiful day and an amazing time for everyone involved!
We had a fantastic time today as Northwest students took to the field to show off their talent and determination at the Jefferson County Special Olympics at Desoto High School. We are proud of every single competitor out there giving it their all. Congratulations to these incredible athletes!!
Fifth grade families are invited to join us tonight from 5-7 p.m. at Woodridge Middle School for Instrument Rental Night! Explore different instruments and receive expert guidance to set them up for musical success! We'll see you there!
This week's #TeacherProudTuesday honoree is Woodridge Middle School English Language Arts teacher Roseanne Snodgrass!
Dr. Liz Green, principal at WMS, said "She is meticulous about teaching well-prepared lessons and she understands the needs of the learners in her classroom. She is a dependable colleague and a trusted confidante for students." Thank you for everything you do for our students, Mrs. Snodgrass!
