Inside
Clayton
A M E S S A G E F R O M T H E S U P E R I N T E N D E N T | F A L L 2 0 2 5
Dear Clayton Community,
As the new school year begins, I am excited to reconnect with you and reflect on
the many highlights from the past year. There is so much to celebrate, and even
more to look forward to in the year ahead.
First, we are proud to announce that the School District of Clayton earned
a 94.5% score on our most recent Annual Performance Report. This marks
the highest score the District has received since the Missouri Department of
Elementary and Secondary Education introduced the MSIP 6 model in 2022. This
achievement is a direct result of the hard work, dedication and passion of our
educators and staff, who go above and beyond to support our students every day.
Building on this success, we continue to engage in meaningful conversations
about modernizing our learning environments to better meet the needs of
students today and in the future. This strategic, forward-thinking process is
guided by community input and recognizes that many of our facilities require
significant upgrades to sustain our tradition of excellence. You can read more
about this important work on page 9. We remain fully committed to preserving
Clayton’s legacy of academic excellence, and we look forward to ongoing
community partnership as we advance the priorities outlined in our Long-Range
Facilities Master Plan.
While we are exploring avenues to transform our physical spaces, our true focus
remains on the learning experiences we provide every day. From preschool
through high school, the competencies in our Profile of a Clayton Graduate
guide our efforts to prepare students for a lifetime of learning, growth and
success. In this issue, you will find examples of how we are developing these
competencies and making progress toward the goals in our Strategic Plan.
None of this would be possible without you—our Clayton community. Your
partnership is the foundation of our success, and we are grateful for your trust,
engagement and commitment to our schools.
As a District, we remain dedicated to upholding your high expectations while
ensuring that Clayton is a place for everyone to grow as learners in head
and heart.
Sincerely,
Nisha Patel, Ed.D.
Superintendent
School District of Clayton
Inside Clayton
The Board of Education
The School District of Clayton is governed by a dedicated seven-member
Board of Education that meets monthly to discuss and make decisions on key
issues affecting students, staff and schools. Board members are elected to
serve three-year terms, with elections held each April.
The Board
Stacy Siwak, President
stacysiwak@claytonschools.net
Term Expires: 2026
Jason Growe, Vice President
jasongrowe@claytonschools.net
Term Expires: 2026
Kimberly Hurst, Treasurer
kimberlyhurst@claytonschools.net
Term Expires: 2026
Chris Win, Secretary
chriswin@claytonschools.net
Term Expires: 2028
D. Leo Human, Director
leohuman@claytonschools.net
Term Expires: 2027
Pamela Lyss-Lerman, Director
pamlysslerman@claytonschools.net
Term Expires: 2027
Ben Beinfeld, Director
benjaminbeinfeld@claytonschools.net
Term Expires: 2028
Get In Touch
There are many ways to stay
in contact with the Board of
Education.
Call the Office of the
Superintendent at
314.854.6017
Write to the Board at the
District’s Administrative Center
#2 Mark Twain Circle
Clayton, MO 63105314.854.6093.
Send an email to
board@claytonschools.net
Superintendent Dr. Nisha Patel joins the Board of Education in celebrating the
Class of 2025 at Clayton High School’s graduation ceremony.
G U I D I N G O U R V O I C E
Legislative Principles
s education policy
continues to
evolve across the
state, the School
District of Clayton
has adopted clear legislative
principles that reflect its core
values and commitment to public
education. These principles serve
as a foundation for advocacy and
decision-making, helping the
District move forward while staying
true to what matters most:
n Students
n Community
n Local Control
Legislative Principles
P R I N C I P L E 1
We value public education.
Our District supports public
education and supports legislation
that strengthens public education
in Missouri.
P R I N C I P L E 2
We believe curriculum decisions
are best made by our community.
Our District seeks to develop
students who are empathetic and
culturally competent. We support
the right for local districts to define
their own curriculum in pursuit of
these goals and oppose legislation
that interferes with that right.
P R I N C I P L E 3
We support local control of local
tax dollars.
Our District opposes legislation
interfering with the right of local
school districts to control and
manage local tax dollars.
Next Steps
In May, the Board of Education
officially adopted these principles
to guide the District’s approach
to legislative advocacy and policy
decisions. This step highlights
Clayton’s ongoing commitment to
delivering a high-quality, student-
focused education. As state-level
legislative conversations continue,
the District will stay actively
involved, advocating for policies
that put students and public
education first.
Want to get
involved?
To learn more, visit
claytonschools.net or
scan the QR code.
S T A F F
S C H O O L S
S T U D E N T A C H I E V E M E N T
Clayton by the Numbers
1189/1600
District Average SAT Score
285
Certified Staff
97.1%
4-Year Graduation Rate
96.7%
Teachers with a Master’s Degree
or Higher
11:1
Students Per Classroom Teacher
AT A L L G R A D E L E V E L S
19.2 Years
Average Experience
24-25 Student
Building Name
Building Age
Enrollment
Site Acreage
Glenridge Elementary
96
325
2.7 Acres
Meramec Elementary
86
366
3.7 Acres
Captain Elementary
52
294
2.9 Acres
Wydown Middle
12
618
4.7 Acres
Clayton High
71
804
21.6 Acres
Family Center
71
100
24.0 Acres
M I S S O U R I 1 6 : 1
M I S S O U R I 5 8 .1 %
M I S S O U R I 9 0 . 8 %
9 4 8 / 1 6 0 0 N AT I O N A L AV E R A G E
M I S S O U R I 1 2 . 7 Y E A R S
G O A L 1
We will ensure all
learners, regardless of
identity, feel supported
and respected.
oal one is rooted in
the belief that a strong
sense of belonging is
essential to student
success. It focuses
on creating a school environment
where every learner feels safe,
valued and seen. Through
purposeful efforts that celebrate
identity and foster inclusion, the
District is dedicated to helping
every learner thrive.
Meaningful initiatives, such as
displaying international flags,
hosting cultural events and
offering immersive programs that
promote inclusion and academic
excellence, are central to this work.
Partnerships with various civil rights
organizations further enrich learning
by deepening education around
identity, history and social justice.
Equity-focused topics are
thoughtfully integrated throughout
the K–12 social studies curriculum.
Additionally, the CharacterStrong
program, which was introduced in
2024 at the elementary level, helps
foster empathy, respect and safety.
At the secondary level, student
unions, affinity groups and other
initiatives empower students to
use their voices and promote
belonging. Collectively, these
efforts support the development of
culturally competent, empathetic
and collaborative graduates, which
are core qualities in the Profile of a
Clayton Graduate.
Looking ahead, the District is
working with its Equity Committee
to expand anti-hate education. A
series of community events will also
be offered to promote inclusion
and understanding through open
dialogue. While this is just a
snapshot of this work, together
these ongoing and new initiatives
reflect Clayton’s commitment
to fostering an inclusive and
supportive environment for all
learners.
A Place for Everyone:
Clayton’s Strategic Vision in Action
The District’s strategic plan is not simply about
sustaining excellence. It is about leading with purpose
and embracing transformational change.
While strong academic performance, exceptional
educators and sound fiscal management have long
defined the District’s success, this strategic vision shifts
the focus toward enhancing the student experience. It
challenges the status quo, seeking to innovate, elevate
and enrich every aspect of learning and growth.
Explore the District’s three strategic goals to see how
Clayton is striving to fulfill its vision of being a place for
everyone to grow as learners in head and heart.
F O C U S O N B L A C K A C H I E V E M E N T
In February, the District proudly hosted its third annual
Celebration of Black Achievement, honoring Black
alumni and students.
Led by CHS’s Black Student Union, the event recognized
distinguished alumni Dr. Samantha March (Class of
2003), associate partner at The Opportunity Trust, and
Roy Jefferson (Class of 2005), founder of My 180 Youth.
Students, families and community members enjoyed
performances from the CHS jazz ensemble, the
cheerleading squad’s tribute to historically Black
sororities and fraternities and an energetic DJ set by
Tashara Earl (Class of 2007).
We will commit to the
educational growth of
our learners through an
equitable, personalized
and individualized learning
experience.
oal two reflects the
District’s dedication
to understanding each
learner and providing
tailored supports to
meet their unique needs. These
efforts are evident at every level,
from first grade students building
instruments in science to explore
sound, to educational technology
specialists guiding students
through the Hour of Code and
student-led lessons
in the Kid Zone
program. In each
setting, students
are empowered to
think critically and
tackle challenges in a
supportive academic
environment.
Empowering
Learners Through
Commitment and Growth
These daily experiences highlight
the stories behind the District’s
strong performance on the Missouri
Department of Elementary and
Secondary Education’s Annual
Performance Report (APR).
In the most recent report, Clayton
earned its highest score since
the state introduced the MSIP 6
accountability model in 2022.
“This achievement reflects the
powerful learning happening
across the District,” said Dr. Milena
Garganigo, assistant superintendent
of teaching and learning. “More
importantly, it demonstrates the
community’s deep commitment to
empowering every learner to thrive.”
While celebrating
achievement is
important, data also
guides efforts to
ensure every learner
makes meaningful
progress—not just
those meeting
grade-level
expectations. The
math program at
Wydown Middle is an example
of this commitment. When data
revealed a need for increased
intervention in eighth grade, school
leaders identified spotlight students,
implemented targeted supports
and adjusted schedules to maximize
learning time. These focused
efforts have led to improved local
assessment scores.
Similarly, this data-driven approach
to equity and excellence continues
at Clayton High, where the
District is advancing Goal 2 by
expanding access to rigorous
academic opportunities like
Advanced Placement (AP) courses.
Research shows that participation
in AP classes benefits students far
beyond exam scores, enhancing
college readiness, academic skills,
confidence and self-esteem. CHS’s
AP exam performance demonstrates
this commitment in action.
G O A L 2
Record AP Enrollment: More
students than ever are embracing
the challenge of AP courses.
Expanded Testing
Opportunities:
CHS had a notable increase
in the number of AP exams
administered.
Impressive Performance:
In 2025, 91% of CHS students
who took AP exams earned a
passing score.
APR
Performance
Growth
2024
94.5%
2023
89.9%
A P E X A M T R E N D S
2023
2024
2025
Total Tests Administered
796
902
947
Number of Students
283
299
300
Percent of Passing Scores (3,4,5)
87%
90%
91%
Prioritizing Social,
Emotional and Physical
Well-Being for All
Learners
n a District where academic
excellence is the norm,
intentional steps are taken
to nurture students’ social,
emotional and physical
well-being. This dedication is
evident across classrooms, from the
District’s youngest learners at the
Family Center engaging in activities
designed to help them label their
emotions to middle school students
at Wydown collaborating in small
groups to strengthen relationships
with their peers.
Beyond these initiatives, the District
continues to prioritize student
well-being in impactful ways. One
example is the introduction of the
Wellness Center, the first of its
kind in the Midwest, which offers
students a
dedicated space
to focus on
mental health.
Located on the
lower level of
the high school,
this welcoming
space provides
students with
opportunities to
take brain breaks and participate in
wellness events while also making it
easy to connect with resources that
support their mental health.
At the elementary level, the
CharacterStrong program is
driving meaningful social and
emotional growth. Through
interactive lessons featuring songs,
games and activities, students learn
empathy, kindness, interpersonal
skills and resilience. For those
needing extra support, the program
provides easy access to additional
resources through teacher and staff
referrals.
These efforts, and others, are
making a positive impact on
students. In fact, according to the
District’s 2024 dashboard, more
than 77% of students
in grades 3-5 report
feeling a strong sense of
belonging. This score is
significantly higher than
the national average,
and it has continued to
improve since the District
began participating in the
Panorama survey in 2022.
While progress toward
these goals is ongoing, these
achievements reflect intentional,
focused efforts to support every
student.
2024 Panorama
Sense of
Belonging
Clayton 77%
National 50%
A P L A C E F O R E V E R Y O N E
T O G R O W A S L E A R N E R S
I N H E A D A N D H E A R T
Evaluating Opportunities for
New Elementary School Sites
The District is exploring land purchase
options for potential new school sites
due to the limited space available
at its existing elementary schools.
While no decisions have been made,
identifying possible locations now
ensures the District is prepared to act
if the feasibility study recommends
new construction over renovation.
Long-Range Facilities Plan
Aims to Modernize Schools
The District is taking
bold, strategic steps
to transform its already
exceptional schools into
truly transformational
learning environments.
This work is guided by the District’s
recently completed Long-Range
Facilities Master Plan—a strategic
roadmap shaped by extensive
community input and expert
evaluation. The plan directs facilities
investments designed to enhance
academic excellence and better
meet the evolving needs of students
and educators. Current efforts focus
on three key goal areas.
G O A L 1
Modernizing Elementary
Schools and The Family
Center
Top priorities include upgrading
R.M. Captain, Glenridge and
Meramec—which face challenges
from aging infrastructure and
limited space. The Family Center,
home to early childhood programs,
is also under review.
To determine whether renovation
or new construction is the best
path forward, the District launched
a comprehensive feasibility study
in June.
This study, led by Perkins & Will
in partnership with Paragon
Architecture, will leverage
community feedback and expert
guidance.
G O A L 2
High School Academic
Enhancements
Perkins & Will and Paragon
Architecture are also developing
preliminary plans for CHS. The
project includes building a new
academic wing to expand career
and technical education programs
and renovating the auditorium.
G O A L 3
Athletic Upgrades
For athletic facilities, BLDD
Architects has been selected to
design improvements across the
District. Key priorities include
installing turf at Wydown Middle
and adding a new press box and
dugouts at Adzick Field. Additionally,
the District is exploring options to
enhance safety and accessibility at
Gay Field, either through renovation
or by constructing a new facility near
the high school campus.
Next Steps
To help inform the designs, the
District is gathering feedback from
a variety of stakeholders through
workshops and community forums.
School-based workshops with
teachers, staff and parents began
in July, and community forums are
planned for early fall.
While any new construction or major
projects will require voter approval
through a bond issue, community
members are encouraged to take part
in the process.
Community Forums
Wednesday, Sept. 10
Tuesday, Oct. 21
Tuesday, Nov. 18
7 to 8:30 p.m.
Clayton High School Library
#1 Mark Twain Circle
10
Clayton’s Strong Tradition of Excellence is
rooted in strong community support and a shared
commitment to education. Explore the District’s
history and see how that legacy continues to elevate
student outcomes and academic achievement.
1970
1980
1960
1990
19
20
1880
Clayton opened its first school
— a one-room building at what
is now the corner of Brentwood
and Bonhomme. This $700
investment from the community
marked the beginning of the
District’s journey.
1972-1976
Gay reopened as a first-of-its-
kind alternative high school
to serve small groups who
had advanced or special
learning needs.
1973
Captain School
opened, replacing
DeMun School.
1974
McMorrow School
closed.
1990
The District
opened the
Family Center in
the former Gay
School, creating
a nationally
accredited early childhood
program that still serves children
and families today.
1997
Voters approved
Prop C, a $19.5
million bond
issue for improvements at
Clayton High School and
other facilities, and passed
Prop S, a $1.9 million bond
issue for earthquake safety.
1999
Community fa
a major upgra
opening of the
of Clayton, a s
the-art athletic
that replaced
High School’s
natatorium, as
former Comm
1887
A two-room addition
was built for $900. This
expansion reflected the
community’s commitment
to education and
supported its student
population during a
period of growth.
2001
The Adm
Center o
current lo
Mark Twa
1954
The new Clayton High School opened
featuring a modern gymnasium, natatorium
and a campus-style design. That same year,
the District took a progressive step by fully
integrating its schools—nearly 15 years ahead
of the legal mandate. Additionally, the District
opened Gay School, which served students
from pre-K through second grade, and the
Kindergarten House at Glenridge.
1957
Clayton House was renamed
the Bracken Building in honor
of Superintendent John
Bracken.
1959
Gay School closed.
1962
Bellevue School was
converted into a seventh-
grade center.
1965
Wydown Junior High expanded to
serve students in grades seven and
eight, resulting in the closure of
Bellevue School.
1880
1890
19
1994
Voters approved Proposition KIDS, an
$18.365 million bond issue that brought
significant technology and facility
improvements across the District.
1980
Voters approved an 80-cent
tax rate increase to help fund
District expenses. Also important,
Maryland School closed.
1988
Voters approved a
$5.5 million bond to
renovate Wydown. Two
years later, sixth grade
was added and the
school was renamed
Wydown Middle.
#ClaytonExperience
claytonschools.net
KIDS
2025
The District unveiled its
Long-Range Facilities
Master Plan, outlining
a vision to modernize
schools and enhance
student learning for
generations to come.
50
000
1940
2010
2020
2010
Voters approved
Prop W, a $39.4
million bond
issue to fund
renovations at
Wydown Middle
School at its current site. In
2014, a dedication ceremony
was held to commemorate
this milestone.
acilities saw
ade with the
e Center
state-of-
c complex
Clayton
gym and
s well as the
munity Center.
1893
To accommodate growing enrollment,
a two-story, eight-room brick
schoolhouse with indoor plumbing
was built for $17,000 on land donated
by the Hanley family. It was first called
the Central Building, later renamed
the Grammar School, Clayton #1,
and eventually Forsythe School (later
spelled without the “e”).
1914
The District proposed a $75,000
bond to build a new high school.
Although the proposal was
rejected in 1914, it was approved
just two years later. This milestone
set the stage for Clayton High
School’s legacy of excellence.
1917
Fulfilling the promise
to build a new school,
the first Clayton High
School was constructed
on Maryland Avenue.
The $125,000, 28-room
building welcomed 100
students in its first year.
1906
Bellevue School
opened at the corner
of Bellevue and Ethel
Avenues, becoming
known as School #2,
while Central Building
was designated as
School #1.
1927
DeMun School opened.
1929
Glenridge School opened.
1931
Maryland School opened.
This school replaced the
Forsyth School.
1932
McMorrow School
opened.
2003
Voters approved
Proposition E, a
65-cent operating
tax levy.
2008
The District launched
Blueprint 4 Tomorrow,
a master plan to guide
facilities upgrades.
ministration
opened at its
ocation, #2
ain Circle.
1936
Wydown Junior High
opened after the District
purchased a former private
girls’ school.
1939
Meramec School opened.
1941
Clayton House opened on
the grounds of the original
Clayton High School. The
building was connected to
the school by a covered
walkway, and it served as a
learning lab for courses like
cooking, sewing, ceramics
and more.
1952
In April, the District marked
the beginning of a new
chapter as ground was broken
for Clayton High School at its
current site. The $1.6 million
project, envisioned a decade
earlier, had been delayed due
to post-war supply shortages.
00
1920
1930
1910
2019
Voters approved Prop E, which authorized
the District to increase the operating levy
by $0.5600. However, the District chose
to apply a voluntary rate reduction of
$0.1500, which remains in effect today.
1930
Recognizing the importance
of fostering community and
supporting students’ extracurricular
interests, the District opened Gay
Field to host football games, track
and field events and more.
2009
Prop S, a
$51 million
bond issue,
was approved to fund
improvements across
the District, including a
science and technology
addition at Clayton
High School.
12
$68,448,722
D O L L A R S A N D C E N T S
A Snapshot of School Funding
he School District of Clayton is committed to responsible, strategic
financial management. To maintain community trust and protect its
investment in public education, the District relies on multi-year forecasting
and long-term planning to guide funding decisions. This proactive
approach allows leaders to manage rising costs, allocate resources
effectively and ensure that every dollar is used to support student success while
upholding the high standards families expect.
The charts below highlight how the District’s six schools and supporting programs
were funded for the year ending June 30, 2025, and how resources were invested to
strengthen student learning and outcomes.
$71,121,799
O P E R A T I N G R E V E N U E S
n Local Funds
$68,719,239 or 96.6%
n State Funds
$1,833,280 or 2.6%
n Federal Funds
$569,280 or 0.8%
O P E R A T I N G E X P E N D I T U R E S
n Employee Salaries & Benefits
$52,950,010 or 77.4%
n Purchased Services
$5,982,770 or 8.7%
n Supplies
$4,258,329 or 6.2%
n Equipment/Capital Outlay
$5,257,613 or 7.7%
13
Districtwide Highlights
rom national honors
to local competitions,
students across all schools
demonstrated excellence,
innovation and leadership
throughout the 2024-25 school year.
■More than 160 families were
served through the Clayton Parents
As Teachers Program, which
supports the District’s youngest
learners from birth to age five.
Through personalized guidance
and early learning resources,
the program helps lay a strong
foundation for future academic
success.
■Captain Elementary and
Meramec Elementary were each
named a 2024 National Blue Ribbon
School. This honor recognizes
academic excellence and progress
in closing achievement gaps.
■An impressive 18 Clayton High
seniors were named as National
Merit Semifinalists. Nationally,
less than one percent of all
students make the cut to become
semifinalists.
■Students from Clayton High’s
Clamo yearbook and Globe
newspaper earned recognition for
their placements in the National
Scholastic Press Association’s Best
of Show competition at the 2024
National High School Journalism
Convention.
■The Clayton Chess Team, made
up of students from all three
elementary schools and Wydown
Middle, competed in the Gateway
League Grade Tournament in the
fall. Each team finished in the top
three, and several students earned
individual honors.
■Wydown Middle students
showed creativity and teamwork in
multiple competitions, including
the Innovation Competition for
Entrepreneurs, where they earned
first, second and third place. The
eighth-grade Exploratorium team
also took second in the Future Cities
competition.
E X C E L L E N C E A N D A C H I E V E M E N T
A Snapshot of Student Success
In May, Clayton High School proudly celebrated the graduating
Class of 2025. Surrounded by family, friends and faculty, students
were recognized for their hard work, perseverance and academic
accomplishments. While official postsecondary data will be released
in the fall, the District is pleased to report that 98% of seniors
graduated, with 91% pursuing further education at two-or-four year
colleges and universities.
14
I N C L U S I O N I N A C T I O N
Building a Culture Where
Every Child Belongs
n Clayton, inclusion is more than
a goal. It is a commitment to
creating a school environment
where every child feels a true
sense of belonging. Creating
this kind of environment takes
ongoing effort, strong partnerships
and a thoughtful, student-centered
approach. With the support of the
Special School District (SSD), the
District is making that vision a reality.
What does inclusion
look like in action?
Johnicka Turner, SSD
director, explains how
inclusion shows up in the
everyday experiences of
students and educators.
Q: What does inclusion mean
in everyday school life?
A: Inclusion is about making sure
every student has access to the
same learning opportunities,
experiences and school
community—regardless of their
abilities. It is not about separating
students by labels, but about asking,
“How can we make this space work
for everyone?”
Q: How do educators
support students with
different learning needs
while keeping classrooms
inclusive?
A: It starts with knowing the student,
what supports they need, how
they learn best and what helps
them feel successful. We use tools
like co-teaching, differentiated
instruction, assistive technology
and classroom accommodations.
But more than that, we focus on
relationships and creating a climate
of respect and understanding.
Q: What role do peers play
in fostering an inclusive
environment?
A: Students learn from one another.
When students show empathy,
offer help and make space for
differences, they build a community
where everyone feels welcome. And
the beauty of it is that everyone
benefits, not just students receiving
support.
The Power of Home-School
Partnerships
One way families in Clayton are
leading the charge to promote
inclusion is through the Parent
Advisory Council for the
Education of Students with
Disabilities (PAC.ED). This group
connects parents, educators and
administrators to advocate for
inclusive practices and ensure
students—especially those with
disabilities—have the tools they
need to succeed.
“Inclusion starts at home,”
said Megan Lenihan,
Glenridge parent and PAC.
ED advocate. “When we
talk with our kids about
kindness, respect and
celebrating differences, we
are reinforcing the values
they see at school. We
all have a role to play in
creating a community where
everyone belongs.”
15
Focus on Safety
he District continues to
invest in creating a safe
and supportive learning
environment for all
students and staff. As
part of this commitment, Clayton
has implemented several strategic
safety measures.
Investing in Campus Security
One of the most significant
additions to the District’s safety
measures is the Centegix Crisis
Alert System, which was fully
implemented at the start of the
2024–25 school year. This system
equips each staff member with a
wearable badge that allows them to
send real-time alerts to designated
responders with the simple click of
a button. The system ensures rapid
intervention in medical, behavioral
or safety-related emergencies,
facilitating a swift, coordinated
response. Training on the new
system has been ongoing to ensure
staff feel confident and prepared to
respond effectively in an emergency.
Beyond the Centegix system, the
District has made several other key
investments to further enhance
security across its schools.
Upgraded Camera Systems:
To enhance school safety, the
District has invested in upgraded
camera systems at Wydown Middle
and Clayton High. Work began over
the summer to prepare for the new
school year. This new technology
provides school resource officers
with improved tools to help prevent
potential issues and respond more
quickly when concerns arise.
Controlled Access Improvements:
At Clayton High, the District is
exploring the addition of a vestibule
entrance from the building into the
Center of Clayton. This addition
would provide better control
over access to the shared space,
ensuring a more secure environment
for students and staff. Updates
on this project will be provided as
planning progresses.
Safety Starts with
Speaking Up
Creating a safe and supportive
school environment is a shared
responsibility, and that includes
knowing when and how to speak up.
The District offers two confidential
reporting tools, Clayton Quick Tip
and Courage2Report, that
empower students, staff and
families to report concerns related
to threats, bullying or any behavior
that could put someone at risk.
School Resource Officer Jack Boeger welcomes students to Wydown Middle.
Meet Michael R. Parkinson
District Director of Safety
and Security
A major step in strengthening
school safety was the creation of
a dedicated role focused on this
priority. In January, Michael R.
Parkinson joined the District as
Clayton’s first-ever director of safety
and security.
Parkinson brings more than 30 years
of experience in law enforcement
and campus safety. Before joining
Clayton, he served as a police officer
in Illinois, director of public safety
at Maryville University, and assistant
director of public safety at Saint
Louis University.
“Ensuring the safety of our
students is not just a priority.
It is a daily responsibility.
We are committed to
staying current with the
latest tools and technologies
to keep our schools safe.”
16
A L E G A C Y O F E X C E L L E N C E
Celebrating Greyhound
Athletics
n May, Clayton High proudly
celebrated the graduation of
the Class of 2025, a remarkable
group of students whose four
years were marked by athletic
excellence and teamwork that raised
the bar for the entire program.
During their time at CHS, these
student-athletes brought home
15 Conference Championships and
18 District Championships.
The Class of 2025 also contributed
to nine of the school’s 14 total
State Championships, playing a
pivotal role in cementing Clayton’s
reputation as a high school sports
powerhouse.
The story doesn’t end with winning
titles. An impressive 21 graduates
committed to competing in
collegiate athletics across the
country. Their dedication, hard
work and passion on the field and
court represent the very best of
CHS athletics.
Beyond personal achievements,
the Class of 2025 transformed the
landscape of Clayton athletics
through innovative cooperative
sponsorships.
Clayton now partners with
Brentwood for football, Rosati-Kain
and University City for field hockey,
and Webster Groves for water
polo. These collaborations have
strengthened teams, created safer
and more supportive environments
for younger athletes and introduced
developmental squads where
students can hone their skills before
stepping onto varsity fields.
As CHS welcomes the Class of
2029, the Greyhounds carry on a
legacy of excellence built by past
student-athletes. With hard work
and dedication, they look forward to
continued success both on and off
the field.
17
K I N D N E S S A N D C O M M U N I T Y
The Story Behind
Glenridge’s Playground
riven by community,
commitment and student
leadership, the story
of Glenridge’s new
playground has been
years in the making. The effort began
ahead of the 2022–23 school year,
when the PTO launched a multi-year
fundraising campaign to replace the
school’s aging 17-year-old structure.
At the same time, a group of fifth-
grade students stepped forward
through their Agents of Change
project, researching inclusive
playground designs and gathering
input from peers. Their work
culminated in a Shark Tank-style
presentation attended by staff,
families and District leaders. The
students’ pitch was so compelling that
it energized the school community
and ultimately helped fast-track the
project’s development.
With the support of Principal Dr.
Tarita Murdock, a group of students,
parents, teachers and staff came
together to shape a shared vision for
a better outdoor space at Glenridge.
Once the plans were in place, the
District stepped in with the funding
needed to bring that vision to life.
The result is a completely transformed
playground—modern, inclusive and
designed for all students to enjoy.
Since opening last fall, the space has
brought new energy to the school,
giving students a place to play,
connect and make lasting memories.
With slides, climbing structures,
swings and more, every detail was
thoughtfully chosen to encourage
active play, build friendships and
support the Glenridge community for
years to come.
“Our new playground is more
than just an outdoor space. It
is an inclusive gift to our school
community,” said Dr. Tarita
Murdock. “We are grateful
for the vision, teamwork and
support that made this project
possible.”
A L E G A C Y T H AT L I V E S O N
A Bench, A Message,
A Lasting Gift
As children enjoy the new playground,
visitors are invited to pause on one of
two commemorative benches gifted
by the Glenridge Children’s Center
(GCC). This beloved, parent-led
before- and after-school program
served families for nearly 40 years
before closing in 2020 due to the
pandemic.
Upon closure, GCC generously
donated its remaining funds to
support Glenridge classrooms,
new equipment and future PTO
initiatives, including the playground
transformation. One bench honors
GCC’s decades of service, while
the other features a message that
continues to define the Glenridge
spirit: Choose Kind.
18
E X C E P T I O N A L E D U C A T O R S
The Heart of Clayton’s
Excellence
he District is proud
to recognize several
exceptional educators
who have been
honored at the local,
state and national levels. Their
achievements reflect the
dedication, creativity and care
that define Clayton’s schools.
Snapshot of Excellence
Kim Albrecht, Kid Zone site
leader, received the Outstanding
Afterschool Professional Award
from the Missouri Afterschool
Network. This award honors
an afterschool leader who
demonstrates excellence,
professionalism, mentorship
and a commitment to youth
development.
Jean Das and Kath Poppe of the
Family Center were selected for
the 2024–25 cohort of Educators’
Neighborhood, a yearlong
professional development
program inspired by the legacy
of Fred Rogers that fosters
community, reflection and
personal growth.
Sarah Gietschier-Hartman,
physical education and health
teacher at Clayton High, was
named the 2025 Society of Health
and Physical Educators America
Central District Health Teacher of
the Year.
Steve Hutson, athletic director
at Clayton High, was named the
2024 Administrator of the Year by
the Missouri State High School
Soccer Coaches Association.
Adrian Kuehn, special education
teacher at Clayton High, received
a Keys to the Classroom award
from the Special School District in
recognition of his commitment to
inclusion and student success.
Tiffany Marquart, art teacher at
Captain Elementary, was selected
as a St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Teacher of the Month.
Josh McMillian, a physical
education and health teacher
at Clayton High, received
the National Strength and
Conditioning Association’s 2025
Personal Trainer of the Year
Award.
Dr. Nisha Patel, superintendent
of schools, received the 2025
Robert L. Pearce Award from the
Missouri Association of School
Administrators.
Spotlight on Katelyn Long:
2024 Emerson Excellence in
Teaching Award Recipient
Clayton High math teacher Katelyn
Long was honored as the District’s
recipient of the prestigious 2024
Emerson Excellence in Teaching
Award, a recognition reserved for
outstanding educators making a
real impact in the classroom. In the
nomination letter, she was praised
not only for her exceptional teaching
but also for the strong, supportive
relationships she builds with her
students.
“Katelyn is a trailblazer in the
mathematics department. She
regularly pushes herself and her
students to new heights. Her
standards-based approach clearly
communicates the big ideas to
students. As if that wasn’t enough,
Katelyn has also led the girls
swim team to incredible feats,
including second place in the state
tournament.”
L E A D E R S H I P L A B
Empowering Future
Educational Leaders
Did you know the District
launched Leadership Lab this
year to cultivate teacher leaders
from within. The program
supports future-ready educators
through targeted training, real
world leadership experience and
one-on-one mentoring with
a coach.
“Leadership Lab helps build a
strong pipeline of leaders who
will drive innovation, support
their peers and shape the
future of education in Clayton,”
said Dr. Milenia Garganigo,
assistant superintendent of
teaching and learning.
19
B E H I N D T H E I M P A C T
The Clayton
Education
Foundation
The Clayton Education Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, engages the
community, alumni and businesses to create connections, fund innovative
educational programs throughout the District and provide students with
opportunities today and tomorrow.
The Foundation:
Helps advance the School
District of Clayton’s tradition
of academic excellence by
funding innovative programs
and learning experiences not
covered by tax dollars.
Expands student access
to exceptional educational
opportunities, such as the Jekyll
Island trip and the Spring Tour of
Historically Black Colleges and
Universities (HBCUs), offered by
the District.
Provides lifelong connections for
Clayton High School graduates
by supporting reunions, special
events and activities.
Sponsors the Clayton Alumni
Hall of Fame, which honors
graduates who have made
outstanding contributions to
their profession or community,
and the Distinguished Educator
Awards, which recognizes
outstanding Clayton teachers
who have enriched the lives of
students.
Snapshot of Excellence
This year, the Foundation proudly
celebrated significant milestones
and introduced new traditions
that strengthened community
connections and supported
students. The 2024 Hall of Fame
Inductees and Distinguished
Educators were honored at a
memorable gala. Generations of
Greyhounds came together for
the annual Alumni Homecoming
BBQ, while Boys and Girls Soccer
celebrated their 40th anniversary
with spirited alumni games.
New initiatives also launched,
including the inaugural Golf
Tournament and the creation of The
Abrams Endowment to support the
Catalyst Program. To encourage
innovation in the classroom,
numerous Teacher Innovation
Grants were awarded. Additionally,
the board was expanded to
broaden the Foundation’s reach
and deepen its commitment to
supporting students.
Want to Get Involved?
Contact the Foundation
314.854.6038
cef@claytonschools.net
claytoneducationfoundation.org
20
Board of Education Meetings
Typically twice a month
7 p.m.
District Office
Stay informed and engaged in
the decisions that shape Clayton’s
schools. Visit our website for
upcoming dates and agendas.
Community Engagement
Forums
Wednesday, Sept. 10
Tuesday, Oct. 21
Tuesday, Nov. 18
7-8:30 p.m.
Clayton High School Library
Help us shape the future of
Clayton’s schools by participating
in Phase Two of our Long-Range
Facilities Master Plan process. See
page 9 for more information.
Homecoming Parade &
Football Game
Sept. 27
11 a.m. Parade
Show your Greyhound pride
and cheer on our students at
Homecoming!
The game starts immediately after
the parade at Gay Field. Join the
Clayton community for a fun-filled
celebration!
#ClaytonExperience
claytonschools.net
Stay Connected
with Clayton!
We always enjoy seeing our families and community members at
District events. Take a look at the upcoming opportunities below, and
stay connected throughout the year by visiting your school’s website,
checking District and PTO newsletters and following us on social media.
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@ClaytonSchools
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