SJSD embraces change ahead of back-to-school

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- With the first day of school right around the corner on Tuesday, Aug. 19, the St. Joseph School District gathered for a back-to-school conference on Wednesday, Aug. 13. 

The meeting focused on setting the tone for the new school 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 focusing 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. 

News-Press NOW will update the story.