SJSD embraces change ahead of back-to-school season
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- With the first day of school right around the corner, the St. Joseph School District gathered for a back-to-school conference.
The first day of school for the district is Tuesday, Aug. 19. The meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 13, focused on setting the tone for the new academic year — from fresh ideas in the classroom to changes that could shake up old routines.
One big priority this year is refining how lessons are taught and strengthening the foundation of the curriculum.
Additionally, SJSD is focused on moving away from some of the more traditional approaches and trying new strategies that could better serve students.
“I want to shout out to the community because they provided STEM resources for our science learning, which made it more relevant and hands-on, and we were able to implement our science core resource at the secondary level,” said Stacia Studer, SJSD's director of curriculum.
District leaders admit some changes may face pushback at first, but they believe the updates will ultimately boost student success in the long run.
Part of that mission is ensuring a safe, supportive learning environment for both students and staff.
“If we can prove that we are doing everything we can to keep our staff and students safe, then they feel more comfortable about being in the rooms and in the building,” said Shannon Nolte, director of student services.
The conference also touched on practical upgrades — including plans to replace school buses with air-conditioned models.
Another highlight was the district’s fine arts project, which has expanded from theater improvements to new band equipment, sound systems and projectors.
“It's really spectacular what we’ve been able to do with the amount of funds that we’ve had, and the work we accomplished,” Director of Operations Casey Houseman said. "Everybody should be proud."
School leaders also want to boost collaboration and community within the district by hosting more social events and professional development opportunities for staff.
“It’s no secret that in education we see a lot of individuals either moving to another district or leaving education overall," Mark Corral, director of human resources, said. "So, we are working hard to create opportunities for them to get to know each other, either outside the school or in the building.”
Despite the challenges, the district hopes to strengthen recruitment efforts and close any gaps that may stand in the way of providing the best possible education to St. Joseph children.
