For more information on these or other Ritenour School District events, please contact
Doug Bray,
(314) 493-6080

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RHS Freshman Named to All-State Band
1-18-07

Christopher Whited, a freshman at Ritenour High School, was named to the 2007 Missouri All-State Honorable Mention Band. The All-State Band is the pinnacle of accomplishment for high school band members in the state of Missouri. Whited is a percussionist.

"This is an outstanding accomplishment for a ninth grader," said RHS Director of Bands Hadley Haux. "The audition material is difficult and the competition for placement is tough."

Whited is one of only eight freshmen in the state of Missouri named to the All-State Honorable Mention Band. The honorable mention band includes more than 100 students from grades 9-12.

Marion Students Explore Outer Space
1-18-07

Kindergartners at Marion Elementary "boldly went where no kindergartners have gone before in space exploration." Well, not exactly, but the students in Mrs. Tammy Schmitz class did turn their classroom into a solar system as part of their science studies on gravity, stars, planets and outer space.

The kindergarten room features a model of the solar system hanging from the ceiling, glow-in-the-dark stars that form constellations and photos of rockets and space shuttles everywhere you look. The students also created their own rockets to hang from the ceiling.

The kindergartners gained some up-to-date knowledge about our solar system as well. As one student explained, "we learned the Pluto isn't a planet anymore, it's a dwarf." Pluto, considered a planet for 76 years, was reclassified as a dwarf planet in 2006 - leaving our solar system with eight planets.

"The students have been very excited about this unit and have put in a lot of hard work," explained Mrs. Schmitz. "This project has turned into something much bigger than I expected. They have had a lot of fun exploring outer space."

Marion kindergartner Mackenzie Campbell shows off her home-made rocket.

Ritenour Early Childhood Center Receives Grant from Cardinals Care
1-11-07

The Ritenour Early Childhood Center received a $2,000 grant from Cardinals Care, the St. Louis Cardinals community foundation. Funds will help selected families with tuition assistance.

"Thanks to the generosity of Cardinals Care, selected families will receive a $250 credit on their tuition bill," said Karen Flavin, director of Ritenour's Early Childhood Center. "Children and their families were chosen based on child's attendance, the family's involvement in school activities and parents' participation in parent-teacher conferences."

In the past two years, the Early Childhood Center has received $4,000 in grants from Cardinals Care. Last year, the $2,000 grant funded the Cardinals Care computer lab at the center.

The Early Childhood Center is planning a "Cardinals Day" celebration to award the tuition credits on their 100th day of school - Thursday, Jan. 25, 2007.

The Early Childhood Center is a tuition-based program designed to help children grow socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually through developmentally appropriate activities. Classes are for children ages three to five years old.

Ritenour's Early Childhood Center is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Ritenour is one of only four school districts in the state of Missouri to have a nationally accredited Early Childhood Center - and the only one in the St. Louis area.

Kratz Elementary is a Rainforest!
1-11-07

(L to R) Catherine Theiss, Lizeth Dominguez, Kindria Reynolds, Brittany Morgan and Alessandro Canchola show off their creations.

If you visited Kratz Elementary recently, you may have noticed something a little different about the main entrance. Greeting you in the main display case is a scene from a rainforest - including Sloths, Tree Frogs, Macaw's and even a Boa Constrictor.

Fourth grade students, under the guidance of art teacher Amanda McCarthy, created the rainforest scene. Students used flour, water and recycled newspaper to create a Paper Mache rainforest. McCarthy said she worked with the students once a week for three months to create the display. Students studied the shape and form of the creatures using photos and then chose the correct color of paint for their creations.

The fourth graders, from Mrs. Laura Shanahan and Ms. Becky Williams classes, created the display after studying a unit on rainforests. Shanahan's class studied a book titled "A Walk in the Rainforest" written by local author Kristin Joy Pratt-Serafini.

"She wrote the book when she was 14 years old," explained Shanahan, "I wanted to show students that young authors can have success. It teaches students that they can dream big and accomplish their goals."

Shanahan said that students had many concepts in which to master during the unit, including reading, writing and art. She said by combining the unit with an art project, students gain a deeper understanding of the subject.

Ritenour Offers Free Immunizations to District Children
1-11-07

Children birth to 19 who live in the Ritenour School District can receive free immunizations at Hoech Middle School. No appointments are necessary. Parents must be present and should bring their child's immunization records if available.

For more information, please call (314) 493-6029.

Iveland Elementary Teacher Receives Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award
12-18-06

Laura Franzen, a fourth-grade teacher at Iveland Elementary in the Ritenour School District, received the Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award.

Laura Franzen (center) received the award from Iveland Principal Charmaigne Scott and Ritenour Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Compton.

The Emerson Excellence in Teaching Awards Program recognizes St. Louis area teachers for their vital role in shaping their students' lives. Award recipients are nominated for their contributions to the teaching profession and to students.

"Ms. Franzen tackles her daily tasks with enthusiasm, competence and kindness," said Iveland Principal Charmaigne Scott. "Her students are consistently high achievers and her classroom is also a real community of learners. She is a very special educator who touches the lives of all the students who have been fortunate to be in her classes."

In addition to her dedication to her class, Franzen is a leader in many areas - including staff development - and has coordinated professional development activities and organized school wide workshops as the chair person for Iveland's Staff Development Committee.

"Her excellence in teaching is exemplified by her collaboration with her peers and mentoring of professional staff," Scott noted. "She also has mentored new teachers and has worked as a partner with local universities as she has helped student teachers in her classroom."

Franzen has been teaching at Iveland Elementary for the past 14 years. She and more than 100 other teachers were honored in a special ceremony at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in November.

Franzen with her fourth graders at Iveland Elementary.

Hoech Students Raise Funds to Adopt Birds of Prey
12-18-06

Hoech Middle School sixth graders are soaring thanks to their efforts to help protect wild birds. The students donated more than $100 to the Wild Bird Sanctuary's Adopt-a-Bird program and also adopted two birds of prey.

After studying ecosystems, habitats, food chains and environments, the students collected donations to help feed and care for injured birds at the Wild Bird Sanctuary. Donations were also used to adopt an Eastern Screech Owl and an American Kestrel.

Hoech students saw several birds of prey during a special visit by representatives from the Wild Bird Sanctuary who brought the birds to the middle school.

Dana Lambert, a representative from the World Bird Sanctuary, gives students an up close look at "Rafter," a Barn Owl.

Trivia Night Benefits Ritenour Operation Graduation
12-18-06

The Ritenour Operation Graduation planning committee is hosting a trivia night to support Ritenour High School's Operation Graduation. The trivia night begins at 7 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 26, 2007, at Overland Wild Acres Hall. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. The cost is $15 per person or $120 for a table of eight. All proceeds will help provide the Ritenour Class of 2007 with an all-night, chemical-free graduation party. Cast prizes, attendance prizes, refreshments and snacks will be provided. For more information or to purchase tickets, please call (314) 493-6135.

Ritenour Again Earns Highest Rating on Annual Audit
12-15-06

The Ritenour School District received an outstanding report for its financial practices and management, according to an audit report presented to the Board of Education on Dec. 14

Dean Pfeiffer, a certified public accountant with the independent public accounting firm of Schowalter and Jabouri, presented the firm's audit report at the December board meeting.

Accountants from the firm spent several weeks reviewing financial records, accounting practices and the district's compliance with state and federal requirements.

The report indicates that Ritenour received an "unqualified opinion," which is the highest rating a school district can receive for an audit.

"The outstanding audit confirms the district's commitment to sound financial practices," said Doug Baum, Ritenour School District chief financial officer. "It is very important that the district be a good steward of taxpayer money. We take great pride in our history of solid financial management."

The Ritenour School District won the prestigious Meritorious Budget Award for excellence in the preparation and management of its 2005-2006 annual budget. It was the fourth consecutive year the district received the award. The Association of School Business Officials International presents the award to less than one percent of the nation's school districts each year.

Taxpayers Benefit Through Ritenour's Bond Issue Refund
12-15-06

The Ritenour School District is saving taxpayers money through a bond issue refund. The district, which has won numerous national awards for its financial management, will save taxpayers more than $600,000 by restructuring debt. The Ritenour Board of Education approved the measure at its December meeting.

"The bond issue refund is similar to refinancing a mortgage, with the school district refunding the bonds in order to lower its interest rate and save taxpayer money," said Doug Baum, Ritenour School District chief financial officer. "The current lower interest rates and favorable market conditions gave the district the opportunity to refinance existing bonds. We monitor the market and look for opportunities to eliminate debt and save taxpayer money."

The district combined a $6.8 million bond issue from 1997 and $8.1 million from a 2002 bond issue into one issue at lower interest rates. The restructuring will reduce the amount the district pays for interest on bonds.

The Ritenour School District won the prestigious Meritorious Budget Award for excellence in the preparation and management of its 2005-2006 annual budget. It was the fourth consecutive year the district received the award. The Association of School Business Officials International presents the award to less than one percent of the nation's school districts each year.

Ritenour High School Presents "It's Murder in the Wings"
12-07-06

Ritenour High School drama students are presenting their fall play "It's Murder in the Wings" from Dec. 13-15, 2006. All shows begin at 7 p.m. in the North Gymnasium at Ritenour High School, 9100 St. Charles Rock Road. The hysterical murder mystery, written by Pat Cook, will have the whole family in stitches! All shows are free and open to the public. For more information, call (314) 493-6000, ext. 1240.

Ritenour High School to Host Parent Information Meeting
12-07-06

Ritenour High School is holding a meeting for parents of students who are currently in eighth grade in the district and will be attending the school next year. The parent information meeting will take place Thursday, Jan. 11, 2007, in the North Gymnasium at Ritenour High School, 9100 St. Charles Rock Road. School administrators will be on hand to assist parents in the enrollment process and answer any questions they might have. For more information, call (314) 493-6040.

99-Year-Old Knits Hats for Buder Students
11-29-06

99-year old Leola Lee

Third graders at Buder Elementary School will have warm heads this winter thanks to the warm heart of Leola Lee. Lee is a 99-year old who loves to knit. She enjoys knitting so much that she created a stocking hat for every third grader in the school - 96 in all.

"I enjoyed every minute of it," Lee told a Suburban Journals reporter. "When you're this old, it passes time. And you can watch TV while you do it."

Lee, who lives in O'Fallon, Mo. and is a frequent visitor to the O'Fallon Senior Center, began knitting hats in January using donated yarn. She was introduced to the school by art teacher Mary Baumer, whose sister, Patty Duncan, works at the senior center.

Baumer told the Suburban Journals that "Lee thought it was a great idea, partly because Lee thought it would help her with her arthritis, and partly because it would be something nice for the kids." Lee told the Journals that she "has been knitting for more than 90 years."

Because the hats were all different - and to keep it fair for the third graders - Baumer had the students form a circle and play "Pass the Hat" during a recent recess. When she said "stop" students kept the hat they were holding and left the circle. Students were thrilled to receive the special, hand-made gifts. To thank Lee, students made a short video that was shown to her at the senior center.

Buder students give Leola Lee a "thumbs up" to say thank you for knitting the hats.

Wyland Students Experience Colonial America
11-29-06

Wyland Elementary students learned to write with quill pens as part of the Colonial experience.

Fifth graders Wyland Elementary took a trip back in time to experience what it was like to live in Colonial America. As part of their studies on the time period, students and teachers created a "Colonial World" to replicate the 1700s in three classrooms at the school.

Students were able to taste colonial fare and mix butter by hand in the Colonial Café, write with quill pens using ink jars in the writing and reading area, and play checkers and marbles in the games and crafts exhibition.

In all, the fifth graders learned valuable lessons about what it was like to live during the Colonial time period. The experience was organized by teachers Dena Allen, Sean Snedeker and Jamie Eagle.

Ritenour Schools Collect Food for Families in Need
11-29-06

Students at Ritenour Middle School formed a human chain to help load thousands of cans and other nonperishable items onto trucks.

Students throughout the Ritenour School District collected canned foods and other nonperishable items for the annual Joint Charities Christmas Basket Program during the month of November. All of the food items will be distributed to families in need in the district.

Ritenour has joined with police chiefs from every municipality in the district to help collect food for the Christmas Basket Program. The food items will be packaged to create holiday baskets. Area police officers will then deliver the baskets to families just before Christmas.

Many schools participated in the program, below are some of the highlights:

• In what has become a 24-year tradition, students at Ritenour Middle School collected thousands (in the range of 9,000 to 10,000) of food and other nonperishable items. It took several trucks to haul all of the food away. Students who collected the most food receive the honor of helping load the trucks.
• Marvin Elementary collected nearly 5,400 items.
• Marion Elementary students, teachers and staff donated 940 items.
• Buder Elementary collected hundreds of items - nine boxes in all.

Candidate Filing Dates Set for 2007 Ritenour Board Election
11-29-06

Ritenour residents interested in filing candidacy for the Ritenour Board of Education election on April 3, 2007, may do so beginning Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2006, at 8 a.m. at the Ritenour Administrative Center, 2420 Woodson Road, Overland, Mo., 63114. Candidate informational packets and filing guidelines will be available. Filing closes on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2007, at 5 p.m.

Two positions will be on the ballot this year as the terms of current board members Dr. George Albin and Gary Stein will expire in April.

Missouri law requires a person to be a U.S. citizen, at least 24 years of age, a resident taxpayer of the district and to have resided in the state of Missouri for one year immediately preceding the election. Board members serve three-year terms and are not paid for their service.

Please note, the Ritenour Administrative Center will be closed beginning at 11 a.m. on Dec. 21, 2006 through Jan. 1, 2007. The Administrative Center will reopen at 8 a.m. on Jan. 2, 2007. Regular business hours are Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information, please contact Ritenour Board of Education Secretary Michelle Clover at (314) 493-6050.

2006 Ritenour Holiday Performances
11-17-06

Ritenour schools have many wonderful performances planned for the holiday season. The following is a schedule of events:

Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2006

The third, fourth and fifth grade choir at Marion Elementary School (2634 Sims Ave.) will perform the musical "Holly and the Ivy League" at 7 p.m. in the Marion Little Theater.

Monday, Dec. 11, 2006

The Ritenour Middle School (2500 Marshall Ave.) bands, orchestras and choirs will perform their winter concert in the school's gym at 7 p.m.

The Ritenour High School Orchestra and Choir Department will present at Holiday Christmas Concert at 7:30 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of St. John (8665 St. Charles Rock Road).

Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2006

The Ritenour High School symphony, concert and jazz bands will perform in the Holiday Band Christmas Concert at 7:30 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of St. John (8665 St. Charles Rock Road).

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2006

First graders at Buder Elementary School (10350 Baltimore Ave.) will present a musical in the gym at 6:30 p.m.

Iveland Elementary School (1836 Dyer Ave.) third grade students will perform the program "A Martian Christmas" at 7 p.m. in the gym. The strings will also perform.

Kratz Elementary School (4301 Edmundson Road) fifth graders will perform in a musical show with a variety of song selections at 7 p.m. in the old gym.

Marvin Elementary School (3510 Woodson Road) students will present their holiday concert in the old gym at 7 p.m. Third grade students will perform "Christmas at the OK Corral." The third, fourth and fifth grade orchestra students will also perform.

Monday, Dec. 18, 2006

The Hoech Middle School (3312 Ashby Road) band, choir, and orchestra and the seventh grade advanced orchestra will perform their holiday concert at 7 p.m. in the gym.

Tuesday, Dec. 19, 2006

Kindergartners at Buder Elementary School (10350 Baltimore Ave.) will perform holiday songs at 1 p.m. in the gym.

The Hoech Middle School (3312 Ashby Road) sixth grade orchestra and band and seventh grade orchestra and band will perform their winter concert in the school's gym at 7 p.m.

All of these events are free and open to the public. For more information about any of these events, please call Ritenour Community Services at (314) 493-6080.

Faces of Ritenour: AL
11-16-06

Meet AL. He is the face of Atomic Learning.

What is Atomic Learning? In short, it is an online resource for software training. AL provides a large, online library of short, easy-to-understand tutorials - covering everything from how to use Microsoft Word to how to load songs onto your iPod.

Atomic Learning provides web-based software training for applications that students, teachers and community members use every day. AL is supplemental computer training that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The service will be implemented in three areas: in staff development, as a curriculum supplement and as a resource for parents and community members. Educators, students and their families, and members of the Ritenour community can access Atomic Learning from school or home anytime they want.

For more information on Atomic Learning, visit www.atomiclearning.com. More information will be given to Ritenour teachers and staff soon. If you are a Ritenour resident and would like to use AL, please call (314) 493-6082 for more information.

ECC Welcomes Grandparents for Special Breakfast
11-16-06

Muffins, fruit, juice - and many really big smiles - were part of the menu at the Ritenour Early Childhood Center's (ECC) grandparent's breakfast on Nov. 16.

"This is a way to say thanks to grandparents for the role they play in these young children's lives," said Karen Flavin, director of the ECC. "The kids were thrilled to have their grandparents, and special friends, here for breakfast and we wanted to show our appreciation for everything they do for these young students and their parents."

Cathy and John Cullen enjoy the breakfast with grandsons Sean Cullen (left) and Aaron Roller.

The ECC's Parent Teacher Organization also hosted its annual basket raffle during the breakfast. Baskets - with a variety of themes - were put together through donations from parents and teachers. Money raised will help pay for new playground equipment and supplies for ECC students.

Everyone in attendance had the opportunity to see preliminary drawings of a proposed new Early Childhood Center. Ritenour is hoping to build a new Early Childhood Center and a Center for the Arts at Ritenour High School using a $32 million bond issue.

The Ritenour Board of Education gave approval at its November meeting to put the bond issue on the April 3, 2007 ballot. The proposed new ECC building would be located at the corner of Woodson Road and St. Charles Rock Road adjacent to Marvin Elementary School.

Ritenour's Early Childhood Center is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Ritenour is one of only four school districts in the state of Missouri to have a nationally accredited Early Childhood Center - and the only one in the St. Louis area.

The Early Childhood Center is a tuition-based program designed to help children grow socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually through developmentally appropriate activities. Classes are for children ages three to five years old.

Marvin Students Create Native American, Pioneer Exhibit
11-14-06

Ever wonder what it was like to live in the 1800s? To ride the old Overland trail in a stagecoach, explore the untamed wilderness or spend the night sleeping in a teepee?

Gifted and talented students at Marvin Elementary had the opportunity to learn just that. Thirty-two students at the school created a Native American and Pioneer Museum as part of their studies on the subject. The museum was unveiled during parent/teacher conference nights.

Students studied the areas of Northwest Coastal, Southwest and Plains Indians as well as Oregon Trail pioneers. They researched the tribal areas, documented ways of life, created dioramas and learned honored traditions.

Ultimately they became experts and shared their knowledge with other students, families and community members. Through the Native American Museum Exhibit the students leared how to display artifacts, document and post information, and much more.

Marvin students (l to r) Alyssa Musgray (sitting), Chloe Ambrose, Kelsey Degardin, Skylar Mason, Zach Clark, Alexis Steiniger, Hannah Toler, Hunter Culver, Ellie Schuey, Tre' Orlando were among the 32 students that spent the first quarter creating the Native American and Pioneer Exhibit.

Ritenour Students Salute Veterans
11-10-06

Schools in the Ritenour School District honored America's military personnel in a variety of ways during Veteran's Day last Friday.

Military veterans Joe Clarkson (left) and Jack Patton show Buder Elementary students how to properly fold a flag.

Buder Elementary hosted an all-school assembly to honor veterans. More than 15 military veterans from all branches attended the event, which featured performances from the Ritenour High School Band and the school's fourth graders. Veterans from the local VFW post also gave students a demonstration on how to properly fold a flag. Buder students and staff collected $126 to donate to the Missouri Military Family Relief Fund through a program called "The Power of 11 Cents."

Students and staff at Marion Elementary commemorated Veteran's Day with an assembly featuring patriotic songs, a presentation of military photos from all five branches of service, and a moment of silence.

Mrs. Beth Suhayda, Science Specialist at Iveland Elementary, talked to her third and fourth grade science students about her years of service in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. Students were amazed by her stories about boot camp and how she was trained to be a soldier. Mrs. Suhayda's tour of duty was competed in the United States and not overseas.

At Hoech Middle School, library aides decorated the library with patriotic posters and photos commemorating the Revolutionary War, Civil War, World War's I and II, the Korean War, Vietnam, Desert Storm and "today." The display was titled, "Heroes-Every One."

Ritenour Board Approves Bond Issue for April Election
11-09-06

The Ritenour Board of Education gave approval to place a $32 million bond issue on the April 3, 2007 ballot at its regular meeting on Nov. 9, 2006.

The board cited the need of the bond issue to build a center for the arts at Ritenour High School and a new early childhood center. In addition, the bond proposal includes plans for classroom renovations and land acquisition.

The $32 million bond issue includes a 29-cent tax levy increase for each $100 of assessed value for Ritenour residents. The average annual tax increase would be approximately $55 per year on a $100,000 home.

"Ritenour residents have always taken great pride in their schools and students," said Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Compton. "A new center for the arts and a new early childhood center will help us better support our students in achieving their educational goals. In addition, these new facilities will enhance our community.

"Out of the 35 high schools in St. Louis County, we are one of only nine without a performing arts center," Compton added. "Our Early Childhood Center is one of only four in the state - and the only one in the St. Louis area - that is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. It is very important that all of our students have quality facilities for learning."

Ritenour held four community task force meetings this fall to review preliminary drawings and discuss the project with parents, community members, business leaders, teachers and students. More than 100 people attended the meetings. The feedback was used to modify and improve plans for the two facilities. The process began when a blue ribbon task force made the recommendation to explore the possibility of building the new facilities to the Superintendent in the spring of 2006. The committee made site visits to other area facilities and received input from staff, parents and the community before making its recommendation for the new buildings.

The proposed Ritenour Early Childhood Center building would be located at the corner of Woodson Road and St. Charles Rock Road adjacent to Marvin Elementary School. The district purchased the site - formerly the home of St. Johns Bank - in December of 2005. It is located just north of Marvin on Woodson Road. The building would include 11 classrooms, an activity room, Parents as Teachers area, office space, a library, computer lab, large outside play area and much more.

The proposed Ritenour High School Center for the Arts would be located on the west side of the school. The building would include a 750-seat auditorium, classroom spaces for band, orchestra and choir, a scene shop, art gallery, and much more. An additional 120 parking spaces around the high school are also included in the plans.

2007 Bond Issue Facts:

• $32 million bond issue
• Funds will be used to build a $24.6 million High School Center for the Arts and $4.6 million Early Childhood Center; $1.1 million for classroom renovations; and $2 million for land acquisition
• Requires a 4/7 majority (57%) voter approval for passage
• 20-year bond payoff
• 29-cent tax levy increase
• Average annual increase for Ritenour Residents:
• $100,000 home / $55 per year
• $90,000 home / $50 per year
• Ritenour last bond issue was in 2005 for $6 million and was a no tax increase bond issue
• In the past 19 years, Ritenour has only increased taxes three times

The district's current tax rate is $4.517. This is an average rate that reflects commercial, residential and personal property rates. With the 29-cent tax levy increase the tax rate would be $4.807.

E-Rate Program Saves Ritenour More Than $165,000
11-09-06

The Ritenour School District will receive a 72 percent discount on telecommunications, Internet and data services during the 2006-2007 school year thanks to awards from the E-Rate program. E-Rate funds will save Ritenour $165,765 this school year.

E-Rate is a program of the Federal Communications Commission that provides affordable access to communications services to eligible K-12 schools and libraries. The program helps to ensure that schools and libraries have access to affordable telecommunications and information services.

The E-Rate fund subsidizes between 20 and 90 percent of the cost of telecommunications, Internet access, voice and data services for eligible schools and libraries. Ritenour will receive discounted invoices from AT&T, Charter Communications and Nextel that reflect the funding decision.

Since 1999, Ritenour has saved $777,640 by participating in the E-Rate program.

Ritenour Students Take to the Polls Through Kids Voting
11-08-06

Beth Davis helps a young student cast their vote at Marion Elementary School.

Ritenour School District students received a first-hand look at our country's election process through the Kids Voting program on Election day. Students in grades kindergarten through 12 cast their ballots throughout the day at special election booths in their schools. The students voted for the actual candidates and issues on the ballot. The results from Ritenour are in:

• Democrat Claire McCaskill easily won the U.S. Senate seat against republican incumbent Jim Talent, securing 58 percent of the student vote to Talent's 30 percent.
• Democrat Susan Montee (57 percent) defeated Sandra Thomas (20 percent) in the Missouri state auditor's race.
• Fifty-nine percent of student voters said yes to Amendment No. 2 - the stem cell initiative
• Sixty percent of students voted yes on Amendment No. 3 - the tobacco tax initiative.

Ritenour was the first school district in Missouri to participate in Kids Voting in 1996. Since then, Kids Voting has grown in St. Louis to include 15 other area school districts and over 190,000 students. Kids Voting is a national, nonprofit program designed to promote voter participation and to educate children about the voting process. To view more kids voting results, visit www.kidsvotingmissouri.org.

RHS Senior Named Commended Student
10-30-06

Margaret Meisinger, a senior at Ritenour High School, has been named a Commended Student in the 2007 National Merit Scholarship program. She is one of only 34,000 students throughout the nation to be recognized for academic excellence in the program.

Meisinger placed in the top five percent of students who took the preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. A letter of commendation from the school and National Merit Scholarship Corporation was presented to Meisinger by RHS Principal Rhonda Haniford.

(l to r) RHS 12th Grade Principal Patrick Blake, Margaret Meisinger, and RHS Guidance Councilor Carla Theiss.

Ritenour Celebrates Homecoming
10-23-06

Current students, alumni and members of the community displayed their Husky pride during Ritenour High School's homecoming celebration on Oct. 21.

Students, staff and community groups unveiled their floats during the homecoming parade themed, "A Touch of Class." Floats from the Ritenour High School class of 2010, GSA and Hoech Middle School all received first place awards in their categories. Ritenour Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Compton was grand marshal of the parade.

The Husky football team played Vianney and, despite a strong effort, fell 38-12. The stands were filled with spirited fans clad in Ritenour orange and black. Halftime featured performances by the Ritenour Rhythmettes and the RHS Marching Band. In addition, the Homecoming Court was announced and the 2006 Ritenour Hall of Fame Inductees were introduced to fans. RHS senior Danny Black was named the Homecoming King and senior Kayla Wheeler was honored as Homecoming Queen.

The Ritenour High School Marching Band leads the homecoming parade.

Four Inducted into Ritenour's Hall of Fame
10-23-06

Ritenour celebrated the induction of four new graduates into its Hall of Fame at a beautiful dinner and ceremony at the Renaissance St. Louis Hotel Airport on Friday, Oct. 20. Dr. Peggy C. Giordano (Distinguished Research Professor at Bowling Green State University), Ted Kulongoski (Governor of Oregon), Dr. Harry J. Maue (Chairman and CEO of Stuart, Maue, Mitchell & James, Ltd.) and Dr. Richard Sabath III (renowned exercise physiologist) were the 2006 honorees.

Gov. Kulongoski was the only one of the four inductees unable to be at the ceremony. He was in Oregon to attend the funeral - and deliver a eulogy - of a fallen Oregon soldier. Since he took office as Governor of Oregon, he has made it a point to attend the funeral of each Oregon soldier killed in Iraq or Afghanistan. Gov. Kulongoski sent his regrets and his award was accepted by Burt Boxerman - his high school teacher and the person who nominated him for Ritenour's Hall of Fame.

The Ritenour High School Hall of Fame was established in 1998 to honor graduates who have demonstrated outstanding professional accomplishments, civic involvement and community service. The Hall of Fame now has 53 distinguished members. For more information and to see the complete list of Ritenour Hall of Famers, visit www.ritenour.k12.mo.us.

2006 Ritenour Hall of Fame inductees (l to r) Dr. Peggy Giordano, Dr. Harry Maue, Burt Boxerman (representing Gov. Ted Kulongoski), and Dr. Richard Sabath III.

Internationally Known Artist Visits Wyland Elementary School
10-20-06

Wyland Elementary School was visited by an internationally known artist - with a familiar name. Robert Wyland, known simply as Wyland, visited Wyland on Oct. 19.

The artist and environmentalist spent almost two hours at the school, doing everything from tutoring students in an art class to giving an assembly for the entire student body. Ironically, even though the school is not named after the artist, its mascot is a dolphin.

Wyland arrived early and paid an unexpected visit to Mrs. Jean McMullen's art room. He painted a dolphin on a ceiling tile (Mrs. McMullen has students paint ceiling tiles in the room as part of her curriculum) and hand signed each students art work.

He then hosted an assembly for the entire student body where he showed clips from an upcoming show on the Discovery Channel titled "Wyland - Brush with Giants." Wyland said the students were the first in the world to see the video. The program's premier is Nov. 18 on the Discovery Channel. He also spoke about environmental issues - like keeping water clean and water conservation - and told students stories of his underwater adventures swimming with whales, sharks, and other ocean life.

Wyland donated several books to the school along with the game "Wyland Monopoly." Students and staff presented him with a polo shirt with the school's logo and a beautiful card created and signed by all of the students.

Wyland's work can be seen throughout the world. He is internationally known for his painting of large outdoor murals of whales and other ocean life. He is known as the world's premier marine life artist and currently has 94 murals throughout the world. Wyland was in St. Louis as part of his "Wyland Ocean Challenge" tour.

Artist Robert Wyland paints a dolphin for students in Mrs. Jean McMullen's art class.

RHS Welcomes National Recording Artist
10-19-06

Enrichment students at Ritenour High School received an unexpected visit from a special guest on Wednesday, Oct. 18. Jibbs, a nationally known recording artist, paid a visit to RHS and entertained students during an hour-long performance at Costilow Fieldhouse. The surprise assembly was in recognition of the students' outstanding academic achievement.

The 16-year old St. Louis native performed three songs, including his hit single "Chain Hang Low" for more than 650 students. The song is currently No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Jibbs also did an interview with KHRS - Ritenour High School's radio station - and had a private autograph signing session for selected students. Jibbs is visiting high schools throughout the United States promoting his new album, Jibbs Feat.

Jibbs entertained students during his hour-long performance.

Ritenour Seeks Further Community Input on Future District Facilities
10-18-06

The Ritenour School District is inviting community members to a pair of community task force meetings on Tuesday, Oct. 24.

All residents of the Ritenour School District are invited and encouraged to attend. The first meeting will take place at 10 a.m. at the Administrative Center, 2420 Woodson Road. The second is at 7 p.m. in the north gym of Ritenour High School, 9100 St. Charles Rock Road.

Last month more than 100 parents, community members, business leaders, teachers and students reviewed preliminary drawings for a new early childhood center and a new performing arts and instructional facility addition at Ritenour High School. They shared their ideas to improve the proposed drawings.

Ritenour is offering residents the opportunity to review the updated drawings, see the improvements made to the plans and continue to offer comments and ideas about future district facilities.

Date: Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2006

Times & Locations: 10 a.m. at the Ritenour Administrative Center, 2420 Woodson Road;
7 p.m. at the Ritenour High School North Gym, 9100 St. Charles Rock Road.

More Info: (314) 493-6080

Ritenour Grad Comes to the Rescue and Helps Ritenour Middle School Deliver New Weight Machines for Physical Education Classes
10-18-06

Ritenour Middle School Physical Education teachers Jim Coletta and Greg Martinez were in a quandary. The teachers had gotten word that they could have new weight machines donated to the school, but they had no way to pick them up because of the size and extreme weight of the equipment.

That problem was quickly solved thanks to the generous donation of a Ritenour graduate. Emmett Holmes, who attended Ritenour Middle and is a 1988 Ritenour grad, runs a local moving company - Move Management Resources. Holmes was contacted by the teachers and agreed to move the equipment free of charge.

Among the items donated were a shoulder press, chest press, squat rack and additional weight plates. Coletta and Martinez say the students use the equipment on a daily basis as part of their P.E. curriculum. In addition, there are approximately 20 students who come to school early three days a week to use the machines.

The equipment was originally at St. Charles West High School, who had acquired it after a Bally's Total Fitness had gone out of business. But, St. Charles West didn't have room for the equipment. Coletta had an acquaintance at the school and was able to get first choice of the pieces. Coletta and Martinez estimate the value of the machines and extra weights at approximately $5,000.

RMS P.E. teachers Jim Coletta and Greg Martinez (left) are joined by students (l to r) Lamar Welch (eighth grade), Shea Dotson (sixth grade), Marcus Smith (sixth grade) and Emmett Holmes and Robert Smith from Move Management Resources. Coletta, Martinez, Holmes and Smith are all Ritenour graduates.

Ritenour Teachers Featured in National Publications
10-17-06

Four teachers in the Ritenour School District had the honor of having their articles published in national magazines this fall.

(Clockwise from top right) Jennifer Berry, Julie LaConte, Jackie Kofsky and Barb Morris.

Jackie Kofsky and Barb Morris, from Iveland Elementary, were published in the September/October edition of Social Studies and the Young Learner. Kofsky, a gifted and talented teacher, and Morris, a library/media specialist, authored an article titled "Symbols of Democracy: An Introduction to Icons and Ideals."

Jennifer Berry and Julie LaConte, sixth grade teachers at Hoech Middle School, co-authored an article titled "Writing in Science: A Collaborative Approach." The article was published in the September issue of Science Scope magazine, a publication of the National Science Teachers Association. LaConte has also written a book on the scientific method that is being published and will be released in February.

Volunteers Needed to Assist Ritenour Student Voters on Election Day
10-12-06

Become a part of Kids Voting USA and help students in the Ritenour School District learn about citizenship and democracy on Election Day. Community volunteers are needed to assist student voters at polling sites from 6 - 8:30 a.m. and from 3 - 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 7. To volunteer to work a Kids Voting polling site, please contact Ritenour Community Services at (314) 493-6080.

This fall, students from grades kindergarten through 12 have been participating in interactive activities and specially designed curriculum that teaches the concepts of citizenship and democracy, including learning about candidates and issues. Students register to vote then cast their very own Kids Voting ballots at special polls on Election Day. Kids Voting results are reported locally and nationally.

Kids Voting USA is a national, nonprofit program designed to promote voter participation and to educate children about the voting process. Ritenour was the first school district in Missouri to participate in Kids Voting in 1996. Since then, Kids Voting has grown in St. Louis to include 15 other area school districts and over 190,000 students.

The University of Missouri-St. Louis College of Education through its Citizenship Education Clearing House program administers Kids Voting Missouri locally.

Marvin and Wyland Elementary Schools Celebrate the Opening of New Gymnasiums
10-11-06

Marvin and Wyland Elementary Schools hosted gym dedication ceremonies earlier this month to celebrate the opening of new gymnasiums.

Marvin's ceremony took place on Tuesday, Oct. 3. Wyland's dedication was one week later on Oct. 10. Both ceremonies featured short programs led by the school's principal - Jackie Golby at Marvin and Steve Vargo at Wyland - along with comments from Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Compton and Board of Education President Brad Thomas. Boy Scout Troop #526 and the Wyland Cub Scouts led the Pledge of Allegiance at their respective ceremonies.

The construction cost for each gymnasium was $935,000. Both are 3,290 square feet and include basketball goals and court markings for one main court and four half courts. The buildings also feature volleyball nets and court markings. As part of the project, each school also added a physical education office and storage room, and a large multipurpose storage room. Wyland also added a new teachers lounge.

Construction of the new gymnasiums was funded by Proposition R, a no tax increase bond issue that Ritenour voters approved in April 2005. Both gymnasiums were completed in August 2006.

Wyland student council president Mariah White (second from right) cuts the ribbon during the school's gym dedication. White is joined by (left to right) teacher Andrew Lohnes, fifth grade students Chloe Shy and Michael Elwood, and teacher Martha Bergman.

ECC Students Learn about Fire Safety
10-09-06

On Oct. 9, students at Ritenour's Early Childhood Center (ECC) were visited by firefighters from the Community Fire Protection District as part of Fire Prevention Week.

Captain Geoff Fish, Engineer Al DiRie, and Firefighter Kevin Cortivo from Engine Co. 3810 gave a presentation to the students. They taught valuable lessons about fire safety, showed students around the fire engine and even let some of them try on their gear.

Classes at the ECC are for children ages three to five years old. The tuition-based program designed to help children grow socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually through developmentally appropriate activities.

Ritenour's Early Childhood Center is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Ritenour is one of only four school districts in the state of Missouri to have a nationally accredited Early Childhood Center - and the only one in the St. Louis area.

Fire protection districts gave presentations to elementary schools throughout the Ritenour School District during Fire Prevention Week.

ECC Students received a lesson in fire safety and had the chance to get an up close look at a fire engine.

Australian Principals Visit Ritenour Middle School
10-05-06

Ritenour Middle School recently played host to a pair of principals from the island of Tasmania, Australia. David and Christine Forshaw were in the United States to visit Positive Behavior Intervention Support (PBIS) schools.

David and Christine Forshaw with Ritenour Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Compton (left).

The husband and wife tandem are both principals for high school aged children in their native country. They won an award from Westfield Shopping Town to visit PBIS schools throughout the world. They only visited two schools in this country, Ritenour Middle and another in Columbia, Mo.

Administrators took the couple on a tour of the school and showed the Forshaw's everything Ritenour Middle has in place to help students. They noted that they were extremely impressed with the organization and cleanliness of the school, the supportive nature of the teachers and staff, and "how great the kids were."

The PBIS initiative, interchangeably called PBS (Positive Behavior Support), is an approach designed to help students achieve important social and learning outcomes while preventing problem behavior.

Ritenour Middle School is known as an exemplary site in the state for PBIS. Earlier this year, the Special School District of St. Louis County awarded Ritenour Middle and Iveland Elementary School with the Positive Behavior Intervention Support Award of Excellence for the schools' successful PBIS programs.

Ritenour To Host Dedication Ceremonies for Two New Gymnasiums
9-22-06

The Ritenour School District will celebrate the opening of two new gymnasiums at Marvin and Wyland Elementary Schools in early October. Dedication ceremonies at Marvin Elementary take place on Tuesday, Oct. 3 at 7 p.m. Wyland Elementary will host ceremonies on Tuesday, Oct. 10 at 6 p.m. The community is invited to both gymnasium dedications.

Construction of the new gymnasiums was funded by Proposition R, a no tax increase bond issue that Ritenour voters approved in April 2005. Both gymnasiums were completed in August 2006.

The construction cost for each gymnasium was $935,000. Both are 3,290 square feet and include basketball goals and court markings for one main court and four half courts. The buildings also feature volleyball nets and court markings. As part of the project, each school also added a physical education office and storage room, and a large multipurpose storage room.

Faces of Ritenour - Don Blankenship
9-20-06

For the past 17 years, Don Blankenship has given students at Marion Elementary the chance to learn about the game of chess. Blankenship, the lead custodian at the school, runs the Marion Elementary Chess Club.

Don Blankenship has been involved in the Marion Chess Club for the past 17 years

The club is open to third through fifth grade students. They meet one day per week after school -usually on Wednesday - for 10-11 weeks per semester.

Blankenship says his reasons for leading the chess club are very simple.

"I was always interested in chess when I was in school, but we didn't have a club." he said, "So I bought a book and learned how to play on my own. I wanted to help students here learn to play chess."

He has been involved with the club from the very beginning. "We started out with three people running the chess club here," Blankenship noted, "But the other two have retired, so now I am the only one around."

Blankenship teaches students basic moves and strategies in the fall semester and then focuses on tournament play during the spring. The club hosts an annual tournament for all members during the second semester. Students also participate in grade level events and a timed tourney. He periodically brings in different forms of chess boards - including a round chess board for three to six players and a four player board.

Blankenship says he expects to have around 10 students participate in the club this semester.

"Over the years, I've had as many as 15-20 and as few as five to six," he said. "I am here to teach anyone that is interested."

Awards are presented at the end of the spring tournament. Blankenship used to hand make wooden plaques, but now purchases trophies.

"We are pleased that Don has this avenue to encourage deep, critical thinking among our students," said Marion Principal Dr. Janet LeSage. "Don works well with beginners and more accomplished players. He has even had students who are just beginning to learn English!"

The first chess club meeting this year takes place at 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 27 at Marion.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Start Your Engines!
9-18-06

The Ritenour Husky mascot joined Dr. Cheryl Compton at the "Mingle at the Mills" on Sept. 15.

Ritenour School District Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Compton was selected to drive a pace car during the third annual "Mingle at the Mills" hosted by NASCAR SpeedPark in conjunction with the Northwest Chamber of Commerce on Friday, Sept. 15. Compton led one of several charity races that took place during the evening. The Ritenour Husky mascot also made a special guest appearance. Ritenour was a sponsor of the event, which was held at the St. Louis Mills in Hazelwood. The event featured live music, charity races and recreational activities. A portion of the money raised will benefit local charities and the Northwest Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Program, which will help Ritenour High School seniors.

Hoech Student Selected to Attend Summit at United Nations in New York
9-18-06

Heather Powers, a sixth grader at Hoech Middle School in the Ritenour School District, attended a summit at the United Nations in New York from Aug. 24-25. The summit, titled "Making Human Rights a Global Reality," was hosted by Youth for Human Rights International.

Heather Powers

More than 500 young people from 40 countries gathered at the UN to discuss effective methods of human rights education.

Powers was the only student from the St. Louis area selected to attend the summit. She lives in Overland with parents Jim and Meshell Little.

Ritenour Celebrates Homecoming Oct. 20 and 21
9-14-06

Don't miss Ritenour's homecoming weekend, Oct. 20-21. The weekend is full of fun activities for the entire family. The homecoming theme is "A Touch of Class."

Four Ritenour High School graduates will be inducted into the school's Hall of Fame. Honorees include: Dr. Peggy C. Giordano (professor at Bowling Green State University, class of 1966); Ted Kulongoski (Governor of Oregon, class of 1959); Dr. Harry J. Maue (Chairman and CEO of Stuart, Maue, Mitchell & James, Ltd., class of 1963); and Dr. Richard J. Sabath III (renowned exercise physiologist, class of 1963). The event begins at 6 p.m. and takes place at the Renaissance St. Louis Hotel Airport, 9801 Natural Bridge Road. Tickets cost $30. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (314) 493-6040.

The annual Ritenour homecoming parade begins at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 21 at Ritenour High School (RHS), 9100 St. Charles Rock Road. Beginning in the RHS driveway, the parade route follows Bristol to Brown to Lackland to Woodson and ends back on Bristol. The parade theme is "A Touch of Class." If your group or organization would like to walk in the parade, call (314) 493-6000, ext. 1213.

The Ritenour Alumni Association is hosting a homecoming alumni reception at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 21 in the main foyer of Ritenour High School.

Moore Field is the site for the Ritenour Huskies homecoming game versus the St. John Vianney High School Griffins. The contest begins at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 21. During halftime the homecoming king and queen will be crowned and the 2006 Ritenour Hall of Fame inductees will be introduced. Tickets cost $3 for adults and $2 for students with a student ID.

Tickets Available for Ritenour's Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
9-13-06

What do the Governor of Oregon, the chairman of a prestigious legal auditing firm, a renowned exercise physiologist and a distinguished research professor all have in common? They are all graduates of Ritenour High School and will be inducted into the school's Hall of Fame on Friday, Oct. 20. Tickets for the event are on sale now. The induction ceremony and banquet begin at 6 p.m. at the Renaissance St. Louis Hotel Airport, 9801 Natural Bridge Road. Tickets cost $30. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (314) 493-6040.

The 2006 inductees include:

Dr. Peggy C. Giordano - Class of 1966, Distinguished Research Professor at Bowling Green State University; internationally known scholar.

Ted Kulongoski - Class of 1959, Governor of Oregon; highly-respected attorney; former member of Oregon's House of Representatives, Senate and Supreme Court.

Dr. Harry J. Maue - Class of 1963, Chairman and C.E.O. of prestigious legal auditing firm Stuart, Maue, Mitchell & James, Ltd.; recognized by the Wall Street Journal as founder of the legal fee auditing industry.

Dr. Richard J. Sabath III - Class of 1963, Exercise Physiologist; expert in the field of children's exercise; innovator of children's programs at Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, Mo.

The Ritenour High School Hall of Fame was established in 1998 to honor graduates who have demonstrated outstanding professional accomplishments, civic involvement and community service. For more information and to see the complete list of Ritenour Hall of Famers, visit www.ritenour.k12.mo.us.

Local Police Chiefs Join Forces to Help Ritenour Families
9-13-06

Police chiefs from every municipality in the Ritenour School district have joined together to host a trivia night that supports the annual Joint Charities Christmas Basket Program.

The trivia night will take place on Saturday, Oct. 21 at Wild Acres Gymnasium, 2500 Ashby Road. Doors open at 6 p.m. Proceeds from the fundraiser will be used to purchase food baskets that will be distributed to families in the Ritenour area during the holiday season.

Tickets cost $15 per person or $120 for a table of eight. For more information, to purchase tickets or to make a donation, call (314) 427-8700.

Buder Elementary Students Honored by the City of St. Ann
9-6-06

Logan (left) and Austin (center) Stephan receive plaques from St. Ann Police Chief Robert Schrader at the St. Ann City Council Meeting on Sept. 5.

Austin and Logan Stephan, brothers who attend Buder Elementary School in the Ritenour School District, were honored by the City of St. Ann for helping save a baby.

In August, the boys were playing outside when they spotted a baby left in a hot car with the windows up. Acting quickly, the brothers ran to get assistance and help save the 11-month old.

Austin, a first grader, and Logan, in kindergarten, received the "Chiefs Commendation" award commemorating their heroic act from St. Ann Police Chief Robert Schrader. They received the award and a standing ovation from the capacity crowd at the St. Ann City Council Meeting on Sept. 5.

Volunteer Tutors Needed for Ritenour's Adult Education Program
8-25-06

Volunteer tutors are needed to help adult learners through Ritenour's Adult Education and Literacy program. Volunteers work one-on-one with adults to help them improve their reading skills. Training is provided and volunteers are assigned to work with the same adult on a regular basis.

The Adult Education and Literacy program assists adults in completing their high school credentials and improving their basic academic skills. Tutors are assigned a student and asked to work with him/her a minimum of one two-hour session per week. Tutoring is offered in reading, basic math and English. All tutoring takes place at the Ritenour Adult Learning Center or in classrooms at other Ritenour buildings. The program is located at the Adult Learning Center, 8762 St. Charles Rock Road.

For more information on volunteer positions, please call the Ritenour Adult Education and Literacy program at (314) 429-5322.

Ritenour High School Named to "Top 100 Schools" List in Two Categories at National Conference
8-24-06

Ritenour High School (RHS) was recently named to two of the Southern Regional Education Board's (SREB) Top 100 schools lists for 2006. RHS received the awards at the annual SREB conference in Orlando, Fla.

The school received the following honors:

• Top 100 schools with percentages of students at intensive level of quality career / technical studies.
• Top 100 schools with percentage of students at intensive level of quality and relevant science instruction.

The SREB conducts an assessment of students two times each year, which includes an achievement test and a survey. Both of the lists that include RHS are based on how students responded to survey questions regarding the rigor of career/technical and sciences courses of study.

The district is involved with two SREB initiatives - High Schools that Work and Making Middle Grades Work. The initiatives are designed to help prepare students for careers and further education by improving curriculum and instruction in high schools and middle grades.

"Ritenour High School's students and staff have worked very hard to earn the honor of being recognized twice by SREB as a top 100 school," said RHS Principal Rhonda Haniford. "There are more than 1,100 high schools in 32 states that participate in High Schools that Work, and to have our students' achievements recognized is an honor."

SREB is an organization based in Atlanta, Ga., that advises state education leaders on ways to improve education. The organization assists school leaders by directing attention to key education issues; collecting, compiling and analyzing comparable data; and conducting broad studies and initiating discussions that help states and institutions form long-range plans, actions and policy proposals.

Ritenour Early Childhood Center Receives $75,000 Grant
8-23-06

The Ritenour School District's Early Childhood Center received a $75,000 grant from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The funds will be used to support programs that prepare children prior to the age they are eligible to enroll in kindergarten.

The grant was offered through the Missouri Preschool Project (MPP). MPP funds are provided to qualifying programs through a competitive invitation for bid process.

"We are tremendously excited to receive the grant. The funds will help provide some of our students with tuition assistance, especially those that participated in the Parents as Teachers program and qualify for free and reduced lunch," said Karen Flavin, director of Ritenour's Early Childhood Center.

Ritenour's Early Childhood Center is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Ritenour is one of only four school districts in the state of Missouri to have a nationally accredited Early Childhood Center - and the only one in the St. Louis area.

The Early Childhood Center is a tuition-based program designed to help children grow socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually through developmentally appropriate activities. Classes are for children ages three to five years old.

Ritenour Residential and Commercial Tax Rates Unchanged; District Reduces Personal Property Tax Rates
8-23-06

The Ritenour Board of Education set the district's new tax rate at a special meeting on Aug. 22. Residential and commercial tax rates remained unchanged this year and the personal property tax rate was reduced by $0.04.

"Home owners and businesses will not see an increase in their taxes due to Ritenour in 2006," said the district's Chief Financial Officer Doug Baum. "At the same time they will see a slight decrease in their personal property taxes."

The 2006 tax rates are listed below:

Ritenour Tax Rates Decrease in Recent Years

Since 2000, the Ritenour School District's tax rates have decreased across the board. The residential tax rate has been reduced by $0.48. At the same time commercial rates have seen a $0.17 decrease and personal property tax rates dropped $0.02.

Ritenour sets its tax rates to help produce the revenues required to sustain the schools within the district for the ensuing school year, to meet principal and interest payments on the bonded debt of the district and to provide the funds to meet other student and school needs.

Faces of Ritenour, Dr. Cheryl Compton - Superintendent
8-16-06

"My goal is to focus on our children and provide the best for our children. My personal mission is to ensure every child learns and grows every day." - Dr. Cheryl Compton, new superintendent for the Ritenour School District.

Dr. Cheryl Compton speaks to students at Hoech Middle School prior to the first day of school on Aug. 14.

As superintendent of the Ritenour School District, Dr. Cheryl Compton is poised to carry on the district's tradition of outstanding achievements and educational excellence. Compton is a respected and talented educator who has more than 25 years of distinguished experience. She has a passion and commitment to student learning and truly wants to make a difference for children in the district.

"I'm most excited about coming to Ritenour because I really believe this is a district that cares about kids," Compton said. "I've always wanted to lead a district that puts children and their learning first. Ritenour is rich in history and tradition and is known for its outstanding achievements and commitment to excellence."

Compton was selected as Ritenour's next superintendent in March, but officially began her new role on July 1. Compton becomes the districts 13th superintendent following Paul Doerrer, who retired June 30 after 37 years in Ritenour.

Compton most recently served as associate superintendent for the School District of the City of St. Charles. Since 2002, she has also served in St. Charles as assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction.

During her nearly five years working in St. Charles, Compton was responsible for the development and implementation of curricula, district assessment and data analysis. In addition, she was in charge of several administrative areas including professional development, school improvement plans, the budget task force, principal supervision and vocational schools.

Compton began her career in education as a classroom teacher serving the Granite City, Ill.; Ferguson-Florissant and Clayton School Districts. While working for Clayton, she moved into administration - first as an Assistant Principal at Clayton High School and then into central office as the Director of Professional Development.

She earned her Doctorate in Education Leadership from Saint Louis University and both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Southern Illinois University.

Cheer on the Huskies at Ritenour's Homecoming
8-16-06

Don't miss out on Ritenour's homecoming weekend, Oct. 20-21. Homecoming weekend is a great time to visit Ritenour High School and is full of fun activities for the entire family.

On Friday, Oct. 20, four Ritenour graduates will be inducted in the Hall of Fame. The special banquet and induction begins at 6 p.m. at the Renaissance St. Louis Hotel Airport (9801 Natural Bridge Road). Tickets cost $30. Please call (314) 493-6040 to purchase tickets or for more information. Click here for information about this year's inductees.

On Saturday, Oct. 21, the annual Ritenour High School homecoming parade will take place prior to the football game. The parade begins at 9 a.m. at the main RHS driveway. The parade route follows Bristol to Brown to Lackland to Woodson and ends back on Bristol. If your group or organization would like to participate in the parade, call (314) 493-6000, ext. 1213.

Moore Field is the site for the Huskies homecoming game versus the St. John Vianney High School Griffins on Saturday, Oct. 21. The contest begins at 1 p.m. During halftime the homecoming king and queen will be crowned and the 2006 Ritenour Hall of Fame inductees are introduced. Tickets cost $3 for adults and $2 for students with a school ID.

Marvin Students Have a Gas with Science Experiment
8-15-06

Fourth graders at Marvin Elementary found out what happens when you combine seven "Mentos" brand mints with a two liter bottle of Diet Coke. The mints and soda combined caused liquid to shoot six feet into the air. The students, in Ms. Jan Mcclenahan's science class, were studying solids, liquids, gasses and chemical reactions.

Students, Community to Display Husky Pride At Black and Orange Day
8-7-06

The Ritenour School District will celebrate the start of the 2006-2007 school year during its annual Black and Orange Day on Friday, Aug. 18, at Ritenour High School. The event takes place from 5-8 p.m. Admission is free. Enjoy family activities, such as food and game booths, cakewalks, raffles and a dunking booth. Buy your Husky Spirit Wear, and meet RHS coaches, athletes, cheerleaders, Rhythmettes and the marching band. The Parade of Athletes begins at 6 p.m., followed by soccer, football and volleyball scrimmages. For more information, call (314) 493-6135.

RHS Band Performs at Busch Stadium
8-2-06

The Ritenour High School Jazz Band had the honor of playing the National Anthem at Busch Stadium on Aug. 1. The band performed in front of the sold out crowd prior to the Cardinals game against the Philadelphia Phillies.

Volunteers Needed to Help Students Learn to Read
7-25-06

Ritenour is seeking older-adult volunteers to help make sure no child lacks the ability to read. The district, in partnership with the national award-winning OASIS Intergenerational Tutoring Program, is seeking volunteers 55 and older to spend time with children who need a little extra help learning to read. Volunteers are paired with Ritenour's elementary students and spend just one hour a week during the school day as a tutor, mentor and friend. Together they read, talk, write stories and play games. Volunteers select the elementary school in which they would like to work. Training, materials and ongoing support are provided by the district. Training for the 2006-2007 school year begins on Aug. 22. To find out more about the program or enroll in training, please call Ritenour Community Services at (314) 493-6080.

Ritenour News Archive