Susan Burton, a senior at Ritenour High School, was named a semifinalist in the National Merit Scholarship Program.

Ritenour residents interested in filing candidacy for the Ritenour Board of Education election on April 5, 2011, may do so beginning at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 14, 2010, at the Ritenour Administrative Center, 2420 Woodson Road, Overland, Mo., 63114. Candidate informational packets and filing guidelines will be available. Filing closes at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 18, 2011.

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

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 Nov. 11, 2010.

Representatives from Marvin and Wyalnd Elementary schools were honored by the Board of Education on Nov. 11 for their award-winning PBIS programs. Pictured are (l to r): Wyland Principal Kathy Pfeifer, Wyland teacher and PBIS facilitator Traci Jansen, Wyland teacher Jeanne Schober, Marvin Principal Mary Beth Fortney, Marvin teacher Lisa Hogbin, Marvin teacher and PBIS facilitator Lisa Broadbent, Marvin teacher Liz Barnstead and Marvin Assistant Principal Mike Smith.

The new Ritenour High School Auditorium, located on the west side of the school, is under construction and is scheduled to open in the fall of 2011.

Students at Marion Elementary participated in Kids Voting on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 2

Students at Marion Elementary now have 50 laptop computers to help with their studies after winning a national contest. The students are joined by (back row, l to r) Marion Project Challenge teacher Jamie Wright, Overland Mayor Mike Schneider, Charter Communications Government Relations Manager Neal Gilb, Ritenour Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Compton, Marion fourth grade teacher Suzanne Brinker, Marion Principal Mike LaChance and Ritenour Associate Superintendent Jack Williams.

Ritenour Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Compton (center) congratulates the business office for earning the national Meritorious Budget Award for the ninth consecutive year. The business office includes (l to r) Erin Abraham-Murray (payroll specialist), Mary Ashley (accounts payable), Doug Baum (Chief Financial Officer), Mary Mahn (assistant) and Celia Pearson (accountant).

Students at Wyland Elementary participated in online Kids Voting on Oct. 28.

Iveland second grader Dazjah Jones recites an original poem to her classmates and other special guests during a "poetry slam" on Oct. 22.

Hoech Middle School seventh graders took part in a "Writing Marathon" as part of the National Day on Writing on Oct. 20.

Buder Elementary School is hosting a Red Cross blood drive next Tuesday, Oct. 26 from 4 - 8 p.m. To make an appointment, click here or call (314) 493-6300.

Ritenour High School class of 2010 - we need your help! The Ritenour School District is in the process of collecting information on post-graduate activities for our students from the class of 2010.

The Ritenour School District will receive an 84 percent discount on telecommunications, Internet and data services during the 2010-2011 school year thanks to awards from the E-Rate program. E-Rate funds will save Ritenour $211,368.

2010 Ritenour Homecoming Photo Gallery

The Ritenour Hall of Fame Class of 2010 includes (l to r): Bill Chott (class of 1987), Warner Baxter (class of 1979), Dean, Bob and Ron Grubbs (Lifetime Achievement Award) and Douglas Allen Katsev, MD (class of 1977).

The Ritenour Huskies, with a record of 4-2, take on the Hazelwood East Spartans during the annual Homecoming football game at 1 p.m. this Saturday.

Officials from the OfficeMax store in Ballwin, Mo., surprised Marvin second grade teacher Jill Hodges (far right) with classroom supplies. Pictured are: (l to r) Joe Hesskamp, Marvin Principal Mary Beth Fortney and Jayne Marking.

Jeanna McDermott, a kindergarten teacher at Marvin Elementary, is the recipient of a 2010 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award. The award recognizes St. Louis metropolitan area teachers for their vital role in shaping their students' lives. McDermott was selected by district administrators for her contributions to the teaching profession and for her role in the education of Ritenour students.

Marvin Elementary kindergarten teacher Jeanna McDermott (back center) is the recipient of a 2010 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award.

Kindergarten students at Marion Elementary study the movements of Jake the Snake – a black rat snake hatched in their room recently. 

Marvin Elementary students are harvesting many different fruits and vegetables from their school garden this fall. Students include (l to r): Christian Chavez, Shelly Seddens, Trystan Bell, Hope Houston, Lena Thai, Lameciah Gates, Emma Carriker and Justin Powell.

Ritenour defeated Pattonville in the seventh annual Mingle at the Mills go-cart race on Friday, Sept. 17. The Ritenour race team includes: Associate Superintendent Dr. Jack Williams, Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Compton, Re-Entry Director Brian Rich, Hoech Middle Assistant Principal Bilal Ewing, Kratz Elementary Principal Dorlita Adams, RHS Assistant Principal Terrance Peterson, Assistant Superintendent Shelly Mills-Walker, Assistant Superintendent Mary Scheetz and RHS Dean of Students Chris Clark.

Tickets are on sale now for the Ritenour Hall of Fame induction ceremony and banquet on Friday, Oct. 8, 2010. Don't miss this wonderful event as Ritenour High School welcomes three outstanding graduates and its first Lifetime Achievement Award recipient to its Hall of Fame.

Cheer on the Huskies at Ritenour's Homecoming! Don't miss Ritenour's homecoming weekend, Oct. 8-9, 2010. Homecoming weekend is a great time to visit Ritenour High School (RHS) and is full of fun activities for the entire family. For more information on all Ritenour High School homecoming events, call (314) 493-6105.

Ritenour class of 2009! Where are you? We're looking for missing classmates! Do you know anyone listed below � help us find these classmates!

Ritenour Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Compton (center) was joined by students from the School for Early Childhood Education, the Ritenour Board of Education, members of Citizens for Ritenour's Future, local elected officials and Ritenour administrators for the official ribbon cutting in front of the school.

Ritenour High School class of 2009 - we need your help! The Ritenour School District is in the process of collecting information on post-graduate activities for our students from the class of 2009.

Dr. Anthony Robinson, Principal at Ritenour High School (RHS), was named one of this year's 30 Leaders in their Thirties by North County, Inc (NCI). Dr. Robinson is recognized as a leader in our community � and honored for the difference he makes in the lives of students every day.

Attention former Ritenour High School soccer players - feel like dusting off the old cleats for a good cause? Join past Ritenour men's soccer players for a game between the odd and even years to help raise money for the Ritenour High School soccer program.

Join us to celebrate the dedication of the Ritenour School for Early Childhood Education. The official dedication ceremony and celebration is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 31 at 6:30 p.m.

Ritenour Board Approves Bid for New Library at Marion Elementary

Students at Iveland Elementary were excited to begin the school year

The Ritenour School District will celebrate the start of its 2010-2011 school year during its annual Black and Orange Day on Friday, Aug. 20, 2010 at Ritenour High School (RHS). The event takes place from 6-7:30 p.m. Admission is free.

OASIS volunteer tutors form priceless friendships and precious memories while helping students learn to read.

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. Missouri laws require all children to have up-to-date immunizations prior to the first day of school.

Ritenour School District residents 60 years of age or older may attend Ritenour home athletic events and school activities, including musicals and drama presentations, free of charge by obtaining a Gold Card Pass. The card is a lifetime pass and need not be renewed. Admittance to county, regional and state athletic tournaments is not included with the pass.

Students involved in Project Challenge at Ritenour Middle School had the opportunity to perform the play "Land of the E*erf" last year as part of their studies.

The Books on the Go! mobile library will make two stops this week. Its last day is July 29.

The first day of school is just around the corner and enrollment for students new to the Ritenour School District is easier than ever before! This year, families new to the district can register their child in one location � no more visiting several schools and filling out the paperwork over and over again. Parents can also save time by beginning the enrollment process online, then bringing the required papers and legal documents to the Ritenour Administrative Center to complete the registration process.

The Ritenour School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Kathryn Gray as an Assistant Principal at Ritenour High School. Dr. Gray joins the district from the Rockwood School District, where she was a high school teacher and part of the district's administrative leadership development program.

The President's Education Award Program, established by the U.S. Department of Education, recognizes and honors outstanding educational achievement. The program rewards students for their academic effort and success.

View the latest photo gallery from the new school.

RHS student-athlete Michael Meisinger receives the President's Award for Educational Excellence from Ritenour Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Compton.

Three new outstanding alumni have been selected for the Ritenour High School (RHS) Hall of Fame Class of 2010. In addition, the Hall of Fame has awarded its first Lifetime Achievement Award. The Lifetime Achievement Award honors those who have gained distinction through significant and long-standing contributions to the Ritenour School District.

The new auditorium at Ritenour High School, scheduled to open in 2011, is expected to receive LEED certification as "gold" after construction is complete - meaning it will be built to some of the highest standards of environmental sustainability.

The Ritenour School District will save $270,000 by refinancing outstanding bonds at a lower interest rate.

Construction crews put the finishing touches on the entrance to the new Ritenour School for Early Childhood Education, located at 3580 Woodson Road.

Hoech students Yaritza Guzman and Claret Rodrigues-Morales deliver placemats with student poetry to Erios Resturant in Woodson Terrace.

The Ritenour School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Jennifer Nilges as an Assistant Principal and Chris Clark as Dean of Students at Ritenour High School (RHS) effective July 1, 2010.

Some of the district's youngest readers had the opportunity to check out books from the St. Louis County Library Bookmobile during the Books on the Go! kickoff party on June 3 at Tiemeyer Park in St. Ann, Mo.

RHS juniors (l to r) Andrew Petralli, Steven Ha and Brett Simmonds were selected as the school's representatives for Missouri Boys State this summer in Warrensburg, Mo.

With classic cars in the background, Ritenour Middle eighth grade history teacher Ken Crowder (center) hands out lunch from Chuck-A-Burger to his homeroom students. This was the 26th year Crowder hosted the event � thanking students for being "the best kids in America."

For the second consecutive summer, the Ritenour School District is bringing its reading program to school aged children living in the district. In partnership with the St. Louis County Library, Ritenour is continuing its successful Books on the Go! mobile library initiative.

Marion and Wyland Elementary recently hosted International Night celebrations for their students and staff. The events gave students and their families a chance to learn more about the many diverse cultures represented in Ritenour schools.

Hundreds of family and friends were on hand to congratulate Ritenour High School (RHS) graduates as they received their diplomas and opened the book to the next chapter of their lives on Saturday, May 22, 2010. For the first time in many years, the graduation ceremony took place inside Costilow Fieldhouse due to poor conditions on the football field. The evening capped a year filled with numerous achievements.

The 2010 graduation ceremony at Ritenour High School on Saturday, May 22 has been moved indoors to Costilow Fieldhouse due to poor conditions on the football field. Because of heavy rains the past two weeks, Moore Field is not in condition to withstand the stage, chairs and most importantly the large number of graduates and their families. Large screens and other video enhancements will be set up for the ceremony in the North Gymnasium and in front of the school near the main staircase. More details are available below.

For the second consecutive summer, the Ritenour School District is bringing its reading program to school aged children living in the district. In partnership with the St. Louis County Library, Ritenour is continuing its successful Books on the Go! mobile library initiative.

Click for larger images

The Ritenour School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Abe Raziq as Athletic Director at Ritenour High School (RHS) effective July 1, 2010. Raziq will oversee the 22 Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) sanctioned athletic activities for RHS students.

Ritenour Chief Financial Officer Doug Baum (third from left) is joined by (l to r) Debbie Livingston, Superintendent of Macon County (Mo.) School District and chair of the MoASBO Resolution and Recognition Committee, Ritenour Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Compton and Kim Brightwell, CFO for the Blue Springs (Mo.) School District and President of MoASBO.

RHS juniors Melissa Kern (left) and Jessica McKenna were selected as the school�s representatives for Missouri Girls State this summer.

Hundreds of pieces original Ritenour student art work will be on display from May 12-16 at Wild Acres Gymnasium.

The Ritenour School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Mike LaChance as principal of Marion Elementary School effective July 1, 2010.

An instructor from Mad Science St. Louis shows students a lesson in chemical reactions during a special presentation on May 3. Students earned the special presentation after collecting more than 150 used cell phones.

Click for larger images

May 3-7, 2010, is National Child Nutrition Employee Appreciation Week. Picture are Wyland Elementary Child Nutrition staff (l to r) Cornelia Feemster, Mimie Latham, Cheri Parker and Kathy Curtis with 2010 Ritenour Employee of the Year Temo Avila (center).

Ritenour High School�s annual Baseball Card Show takes place from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 15, 2010. Dealer tables of sports and non-sports cards and memorabilia will be set up inside Costilow Fieldhouse at Ritenour High School, 9100 St. Charles Rock Road. St. Louis Cardinals players are scheduled to sign autographs. Players and autograph times will be announced at a later date.

Paintings, drawings, watercolors, sculptures, ceramics and more will be on display at the annual Ritenour School District Art Show from May 12 - 16, 2010, at Wild Acres Gymnasium, located at 2500 Ashby Road in Overland, Mo. Ritenour students, staff and the entire community are invited to view the free art exhibit.

Because the Ritenour School district used only two of its six allocated snow days during the 2009-2010 school year, the final day of school for students is Wednesday, June 2, 2010. Dismissal for the elementary and middle schools will be as regularly scheduled. Final examinations at Ritenour High School are scheduled on the mornings of June 1-2 with half-day attendance.

Michael Andrade, a senior at Ritenour High School (RHS), was chosen for the 2010 Missouri Scholars 100, a statewide program honoring 100 of Missouri�s top academic students in the graduating class of 2010. RHS senior Colleen Gallagher received Honorable Mention.

Due to the forecast for inclement weather on Saturday, April 24, The Buder Bazaar has been rescheduled for Saturday, May 1.

Sixth graders from Hoech Middle School observed Earth Day by cleaning up a local park.

Jennifer Range (center) teaches the aerospace engineering course at RHS. She is joined by students (l to r) Dylan Kurtz, Samuel Rendon, Justin Rottnek, Zakhari Snow and Michael Butler.

Baby chicks will soon be born at Marion Elementary, and you can follow along on the Internet. The school has set up three live Web cams to watch the newborns emerge from their shells. Anyone from across the globe can tune in 24 hours-a-day.

This week, the Ritenour School District is celebrating the "Week of the Young Child.� The national event, which takes place from April 11-17, 2010, is held each year to honor young children and thank early childhood teachers and all those who make a difference in children's lives. The Ritenour Early Childhood Center (ECC) has many terrific events and activities scheduled for students and staff throughout the week.

Gary Stein (left) was elected to serve as the Ritenour Board of Education Vice President; Tom Drennan will serve as President.

The Missouri School Public Relations Association (MOSPRA) honored the Ritenour School District with four awards in the 2010 MOSPRA Communications Awards Program during its annual banquet. In addition, Doug Bray, communications specialist for Ritenour, was named eastern director of the statewide organization.

Third grade students at Buder Elementary used a projector, Promethean Board, laptop computer and the wireless Internet to learn about the Albatross Haiti Relief Mission.

Lee Engert, a hall of fame coach who led Ritenour High School (RHS) to a pair of state baseball championships in the 1960�s, spoke to the RHS baseball team prior to their first Suburban North Conference game last week.

Buder Elementary School hosted a "MAP Olympics" ceremony to help get students excited about taking MAP tests from April 6-16. Pictured: Fourth and fifth graders students who scored "proficient" or "advanced" on last year�s test received a gold head band in an Olympic style ceremony to signify their achievement. All Buder students taking the test received a blue headband to help inspire them to do their best during the testing.

Ritenour High School teacher Julie Shelton (center) was named Ritenour's 2010 Diamond Circle Teacher of the Year. She is joined by (l to r) RHS language arts instructor Jane Bannister, Assistant Principal Mike LaChance, Principal Dr. Anthony Robinson, Ritenour Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Compton and Assistant Principal Alicia Collins.

The entrance of the new Ritenour School for Early Childhood Education is taking shape. Construction is expected to be completed in August 2010.

For the 18th consecutive year, Ritenour Middle School hosted its bookmark design contest. More than 75 students submitted 128 outstanding original designs into this year's competition. Sixteen winners were chosen. The contest was open to all students at the school.

Letter to the Community from Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Compton

Buder Elementary in the Ritenour School District is giving individuals an opportunity to sell gently used items during its second annual bazaar on Saturday, May 1, 2010. Sponsored by the Buder PTO, the event takes place from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the school, located at 10350 Baltimore Ave. in St. Ann. Individuals can purchase a vendor space for $10.

Ritenour fifth grade students are invited to the district�s annual Instrumental Music Fair on April 7 and April 8 at Ritenour High School (RHS). The band and orchestra rooms are open from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. each night.

Students from Ritenour High School (RHS) will host a special Book Fair from Scholastic on March 30-April 8, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., to help raise funds for classroom libraries and library supplies. Proceeds from the fair will also be used to purchase essential classroom resources and support school projects at RHS.

2007 Ritenour graduate Steve Cash makes a save against the Czech Republic on March 14 in Vancouver, B.C. (Photo from usahockey.com.)

St. Louis Blues mascot "Louie" entertained first graders at Buder Elementary School.

On Tuesday, March 2, elementary school students throughout the Ritenour School District honored the late Dr. Seuss's birthday and took part in Read Across America. From hosting special reading events to eating Green Eggs and Ham for breakfast in the cafeteria - Ritenour students marked the occasion with many fun and educational activities.

Construction continues on the new Ritenour school for early childhood education � located on Woodson Road, just north of St. Charles Rock Road.

Ritenour School District residents are invited to learn more about community services offered in their area during a resource fair on Thursday, March 18, 2010. The free event takes place from 4 - 6:30 p.m. at Hoech Middle School, 3312 Ashby Road in St. Ann, Mo.

John Gwaltney, mayor of the City of Edmundson, Mo., speaks to students at Hoech Middle School about the importance of literacy as part of the schools Read Across America celebration.

Ritenour High School has partnered with Web Innovations & Technology Services (WITS) to provide an opportunity for Ritenour families to purchase recycled/refurbished computers and other devices at low cost. Applications will be accepted at RHS until March 15, 2010. Please return the completed form (available below) to the RHS main office.

Kratz Elementary students (front row, l to r) Destini Lee, Joshua Dunbar, Robert Jackson, Tausif Talukder and Jacquelin Gomez present a check to American Red Cross representative Deane Adam (left). The students are joined by Kratz secretary Kristie Crook (right), who organized the fundraiser.

The Ritenour School District will host a "Kindergarten Kickoff" for parents of students entering kindergarten next fall. The event takes place Tuesday, March 2 from 6:30 � 7:30 p.m. at Ritenour Middle School, 2500 Marshall Ave.

Ritenour Board of Education director Dr. George Albin III is traveling throughout the district this month, giving third graders lessons on the importance of good dental health and hygiene. Dr. Albin, who has been a member of the Ritenour Board of Education for more than 20 years, is scheduled to visit every elementary school as part of National Children's Dental Health Month.

Know a successful Ritenour graduate who has demonstrated outstanding professional accomplishments, civic involvement and community service? Nominate them for the Ritenour High School Hall of Fame.

Former major league pitcher Al Hrabosky and St. Louis Cardinals mascot Fredbird entertain students at Iveland Elementary School.

Kratz Elementary fifth grade teacher Patty Creek received a wonderful surprise in the mail late last month � a letter to her class from the White House and United States President Barack Obama. The President also included an autographed photo and a card featuring �First Dog� Bo Obama.

The Ritenour community is invited to review new math curriculum for students in the district.

Four RHS girls� volleyball players were named Academic All-State. They include (front row, l to r) Amy Preis, Anna Pupillo, Cathrine Peistrup and Jessica Chiodini. The team, which also includes (back row, l to r) Sami Manion, Michelle Holt, Alexis Minner, Stephanie Poelker, Megan Brandon, Molly Delk and Koral Garland, earned the best grade point average among all fall sports at RHS.

This month, the Ritenour School District will mail a survey to Ritenour High School class of 2004 graduates seeking information about educational and career activities since graduation. The results of the survey will assist the district in evaluating its programs and planning for the future. Graduates are asked to please complete the survey and return it in the envelopes provided. All responses are confidential. For more information, call (314) 493-6070.

At its regular meeting in January, the Ritenour Board of Education approved a bid for $18.4 million from C. Rallo Contracting Company Inc. to build the new Ritenour High School (RHS) auditorium.

During the week of Jan. 24-30, 2010, the Ritenour School District joins communities from across the state to honor the dedicated service of local boards of education during School Board Recognition Week. Our community benefits every day from the dedication and countless hours devoted by our school board - who receive no compensation for their tireless efforts.

RHS speech and debate coach Laura Beamer (center) earned national recognition from the National Forensic League. She is joined by (l to r) RHS speech and debate team members Joseph Rouillard, Jasmine Dean, Paige Holley and Hali Flintrop.

Ritenour High School (RHS) was the site of a special military awards program on Saturday, Jan. 23. Ritenour Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Compton and RHS Principal Dr. Anthony Robinson were invited to be special guests at the ceremony, which featured speech by Missouri Governor Jay Nixon.

RHS senior Elizabeth Ridenhour (center) earned a Wendy�s High School Heisman award and was honored at the January Ritenour Board of Education meeting. She is joined by (l to r) Ritenour Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Compton, Board of Education President Bob Young and her parents � Tina and Kirk Ridenhour.

Studies show early childhood education helps young students learn skills that make them more successful students in the future.

Thirteen Ritenour High School students were selected to participate in the E. Desmond Lee Orchestra and Band Program in 2010. The program gives students the opportunity to perform at the Touhill Performing Arts Center at the University of Missouri-St. Louis with students from other districts in the St. Louis area. The concert takes place at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2010.

The time for the Ritenour Board of Education meeting on Jan. 7, 2010, has been moved up one hour to 6 p.m. The Board of Education meeting takes place at the Ritenour Administrative Center, located at 2420 Woodson Road.

The foundation is set, the plumbing and underground infrastructure is in place and now steelworkers are setting the framework for what will be the new Ritenour School for Early Childhood Education (ECC). Thanks to favorable weather conditions over the past few weeks, construction crews continue to make progress on the new facility.

Our best wishes to you for a wonderful holiday season and a happy new year. Please note, the Ritenour School District will be closed from Dec. 23, 2009 through Jan. 1, 2010. Students return to school Monday, Jan. 4, 2010. Happy holidays!

A volunteer teaches Kratz fourth graders about the food pyramid and healthy eating options during a �Food Power� demonstration.

Five Ritenour High School music students received all-suburban honors � and one student earned a place in the Missouri All-State band. Seniors Krista Milan (flute) and Chris Whited (percussion) were selected to the 2010 St. Louis All-Suburban Honor Band, while Bobby Both (baritone saxophone) was named as an alternate. Sophomore Alexis Carroll (viola) and junior Luke Henderson (bass) were chosen to perform in the 2010 St. Louis All-Suburban Orchestra.

A parent volunteer teaches Buder fifth graders about simple machines during a special program at the school on Dec. 10.

Ritenour Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Compton (center) congratulates the business office for earning the national Meritorious Budget Award in October. Ritenour also received an outstanding report for its financial practices and management, according to an audit report presented to the Board of Education on Dec. 10. The Ritenour Business Office includes (l to r) Erin Abraham-Murray (payroll specialist), Celia Pearson (accountant), Doug Baum (chief financial officer), Mary Ashley (accounts payable) and Mary Mahn (assistant).

The Ritenour Operation Graduation committee is hosting a trivia night to support the Ritenour High School class of 2010 on Friday, Jan. 29, 2010. The trivia night begins at 7 p.m. at Overland Wild Acres Gymnasium, located at the corner of Ashby Road and Midland Blvd. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. The cost is $15 per person or $120 for a table of eight. First prize is $160. Soft drinks and refreshments are supplied.

Marion third graders (l to r) Dillin Burnsed, Devon Climer, Michael Ferren and Kennedy Jackson show off a letter and photo from United States President Barack Obama.

Former Ritenour teacher, coach and athletic director John Moore was inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame � Missouri Chapter in September. Moore was posthumously given the 2009 Lifetime Service Award.

Mike Keefe, Ritenour class of 1964 and the Denver Post's longtime cartoonist, has been awarded the prestigious 2009 Berryman Award for Editorial Cartooning from the National Press Foundation. Judges honored Keefe for a wide-ranging series of cartoons published in the past year.

Sean Raney changes the diving section of the records board at Ritenour High School. Raney established a new record for diving during a meet against Pattonville this season.

Thanks to the support of the Ritenour community for Proposition K last November, students have new technology in many classrooms - including projectors, interactive whiteboards and laptop computer carts.

Buder Elementary fourth grade students Jerome Lewis (left) and Logan Causey participated in the world�s largest sport cup stacking event.

The Saint Louis County Department of Health will be offering free H1N1 flu vaccinations to county residents at Ritenour High School, 9100 St. Charles Rock Road, on Saturday, Dec. 5.

The Ritenour School District received the 2009 Educators Ingenuity Award from the Northwest Chamber of Commerce. Pictured are: (l to r) Mary Kunde from Webster University, Ritenour Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Compton, Ritenour Board of Education Vice President Tom Drennan, RHS teacher Julianna Weden, NW Chamber of Commerce Chairman Mike LeBlanc and RHS Assistant Principal Jennifer Stanfill.

David Maltman, a recent Ritenour High School graduate, shows students a soldier�s clothing from the Civil War era.

Don�t worry if you see several police cars or emergency vehicles surrounding Buder Elementary School on Saturday, Nov. 21 � local emergency responders are conducting emergency drills. Buder Elementary is located at 10350 Baltimore Ave. in St. Ann.

Five-year old ECC student Ella Andrews (center) enjoys breakfast with her grandparents, Jerry and Lynn Andrews.

Ritenour residents interested in filing candidacy for the Ritenour Board of Education election on April 6, 2010, may do so beginning at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2009, at the Ritenour Administrative Center, 2420 Woodson Road, Overland, Mo., 63114. Candidate informational packets and filing guidelines will be available. Filing closes at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2010.

The Ritenour Early Childhood Center (ECC) hosted a special event to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Parents as Teachers (PAT) program on Nov. 12. Dozens of Ritenour�s youngest students and their families joined ECC parent educators, teachers and staff members for PAT�s 25th birthday party celebration.

The Ritenour Board of Education and Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Compton honored recently retired Overland Police Chief James Herron with a special award during the Board�s monthly meeting on Nov. 12.

Buder Elementary students honored those who served our country in the military during a special ceremony on Veterans Day. Nearly 40 veterans from all branches of the military joined students, teachers and parents in a packed gymnasium for a wonderful ceremony.

Michael Andrade, a senior at Ritenour High School, has been selected as a 2009-2010 National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholar from the College Board. Michael is honored for excellence in academic achievement.

Fifth graders at Marvin Elementary recently had a great time teaching their kindergarten �buddies� how to play math games on the computer. Kindergartners in Gay Schnelker�s classroom paired up with Robert Cornell�s fifth graders to use the new subcompact netbook computers and learn to play the latest Everyday Mathematics computer games.

The Ritenour School District will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Parents as Teachers (PAT) program with a special birthday party on Thursday, Nov. 12 at the Ritenour Early Childhood Center, located at 9330 Stansberry Ave. in Edmundson, Mo.

Dr. Todd Lindley, a member of the Rotary Club of Overland, generously purchased and donated an amazing children’s book for all six Ritenour elementary school libraries.

Thanks to the support of the Ritenour community for Proposition K last November, students have new technology in many classrooms - including projectors, interactive whiteboards and laptop computer carts.

Thanks to the support of the Ritenour community for Proposition K last November, students have new technology in many classrooms - including projectors, interactive whiteboards and laptop computer carts.

Fourth and fifth grade students at Marvin Elementary recently took part in the perfect fall scientific activity. Students measured, weighed and studied pumpkins as part of their science lessons.

For the eighth consecutive year, Ritenour School District earned the prestigious Meritorious Budget Award for excellence in the preparation and management of its 2009-2010 annual budget.

From Oct. 27-30, Ritenour elementary and middle schools will host parent-teacher conferences. Ritenour High School has conferences on the evenings of Nov. 4-5. Research shows children are most successful in school when parents and teachers work in partnership with each other. Parent-teacher conferences are designed to build a positive relationship between parents and teachers. Conferences are successful when parents and teachers talk openly about the child’s achievement and discuss plans to make sure the child continues to progress.

For the past month, first and second grade students at Iveland Elementary have been learning about � and writing - poetry. On Thursday, Oct. 22, they had the opportunity to celebrate their writing in front of their classmates and family members in a �poetry slam.�

Oct. 19-23, 2009, is National School Bus Safety Week. More than 3,000 Ritenour students ride the bus to and from school every day. The cooperation of children, parents, bus drivers and motorists is essential to keep our students safe as they are being transported to school, to after-school activities and back to their homes. National School Bus Safety Week is always held the third week in October.

Rebecca Leb, a second grade teacher at Marion Elementary, is the recipient of a 2009 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award. The award recognizes St. Louis metropolitan area teachers for their vital role in shaping their students' lives. Recipients are nominated for their contributions to the teaching profession and for their role in the education of students.

Students and parents arrived at Marvin Elementary School early on Saturday, Oct. 10, to take part in the second annual clothing bazaar. Tables filled with clothes lined the gym as shoppers filled their bags for only one dollar a piece.

On Thursday, Oct. 8, Ritenour students joined children around the world reading the book “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by author Eric Carle. Students participated in “Read for the Record” - a campaign to break the world record for the number of adults reading the same book to children on the same day. Throughout the district, Ritenour OASIS volunteer tutors took part in the special event by reading the storyto their elementary school students.

Wyland Elementary kindergarten teacher Kristen Tegerdine had a pretty good day on Tuesday. Tegerdine was one of only 1,000 teachers nationwide chosen to receive $1,000 worth of classroom supplies from OfficeMax as part of its “A Day Made Better” event. She was nominated by Wyland administrators for her exceptional contributions as an educator.

Ritenour celebrated the induction of three new graduates into its Hall of Fame at a beautiful dinner and ceremony at the Graphic Arts Banquet and Conference Center in Maryland Heights, Mo. on Friday, Oct. 2. Click here to read more about this year’s Hall of Fame class....

Don't miss Ritenour's Homecoming events this weekend. Homecoming is full of fun activities for the entire family - including the annual parade on Saturday morning followed by the football game against McCluer North that afternoon. This year, Ritenour’s homecoming theme is "A Red Carpet Affair."

Dr. Chris Kilbride, Principal at Buder Elementary, was named one of this year’s 30 Leaders in their Thirties by North County, Inc (NCI). Dr. Kilbride is recognized as a leader in our community - and honored for the difference he makes in the lives of students every day. He was officially honored at the NCI Salutes 30 Leaders in their Thirties reception on Friday, Sept. 25,at Norwood Hills Country Club.

Jan Bisschops, an educator from the Netherlands, recently visited Buder Elementary to observe and work with teachers and administrators. The five-day visit was part of a collaborative project between Buder and a school in the Netherlands.

The Ritenour School District will celebrate its annual homecoming weekend Oct. 2-3, 2009. The weekend is full of fun activities for the entire family. This year, Ritenour’s homecoming theme is " A Red Carpet Affair."

Attention former Ritenour High School soccer players - feel like dusting off the old cleats for a good cause? Join past Ritenour men’s soccer players for a game between the odd and even years to help raise money for the Ritenour High School soccer program.

The Ritenour Alumni Association will host its 14th annual golf tournament Sunday, Oct. 4, 2009 at Eagle Springs Golf Course.

Marvin Elementary will have a beautiful garden in its outside courtyard thanks to a grant from Gateway Greening. Fifth grade students, teachers and parent volunteers recently installed and planted the garden, which will feature native plants, fruits and vegetables.

Two Ritenour students were recently honored by the City of Overland and given "Citizen Recognition" for their role in assisting the Overland Police Department. Ryan McDade, a freshman at Ritenour High School, and Breland Stewart, in the eighth grade at Hoech Middle School, came forward to help the Overland PD in the investigation of an arson case at Iveland Elementary this summer.

The Ritenour School District is partnering with the St. Louis County Department of Health to help families, children and staff prepare for the return of the H1N1 flu this fall. Ritenour is taking precautionary steps to protect the health of students and staff and limit the spread of flu.

The Ritenour School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Fred Harlan as Manager of Information Systems effective Sept. 14, 2009.

Two lucky children living in the Ritenour School District won an iPod Shuffle and a $25 iTunes gift card just for checking out books through the district’s summer reading program.

The Ritenour School District will celebrate the start of its 2009-2010 school year during its annual Black and Orange Day on Friday, Aug. 21, 2009 at Ritenour High School (RHS). The event takes place from 6-7:30 p.m. Admission is free.

Three new outstanding alumni have been selected for the Ritenour High School (RHS) Hall of Fame Class of 2009. The new members will be inducted during a special ceremony on Friday, Oct. 2, 2009.

School is back in session for Ritenour School District students. Administrators, teachers and staff welcomed students back for the first day of the 2009-2010 school year. Ritenour is excited to celebrate the beginning of another great year!

Click here to view the photo gallery

The first day of school for Ritenour School District students is Thursday, Aug. 13, 2009. Ritenour is excited to celebrate the beginning of its 142nd year! Information is listed below to help you get ready for the upcoming school year.

Wow, what a summer in the Ritenour School District! Improvements and upgrades are being made, just in time to welcome students back to school on Aug. 13. Thanks to the community’s support of the Proposition K bond issue last November, and the continuing support parents provide every day, Ritenour students have many new tools in place to help them achieve and succeed at a high level.

The Ritenour School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Phil Nash as Athletics Director at Ritenour High School.

Ritenour High School teacher Patty Ulrich was one of only 25 teachers from across the nation selected for a life-changing trip to Costa Rica this spring. Ulrich, a language arts and drama instructor in her first year at RHS, spent 12 days in the Central American country studying environmental sustainability through the Toyota International Teacher Program.

In what has become an annual tradition at the school, Iveland Elementary School held its annual Red Carpet Ceremony on the final day of the school year to recognize students for displaying peaceful behavior. Two at a time, students walked the red carpet in Iveland’s gymnasium. When they reached the front, they received a special award for avoiding office referrals and for being fight free for the entire school year.

The Ritenour School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Julia Burnside as an Assistant Principal at Ritenour Middle School effective July 1, 2009.

The Hoech Middle School Orchestra took home one of the top awards at the Six Flags Great Adventure Music Festival in Eureka, Mo. The eighth grade orchestra won Best String Orchestra honors in the Middle School Junior High Division by earning a rating of “Superior.”

Click here to view the Kick off Party photo gallery

Click here to view the photo gallery.

Click here to view the photo gallery.

Susan Burton, a sophomore at Ritenour High School, has been chosen to attend the 2009 Missouri Scholars Academy (MSA). Burton is one of only 330 top-flight students from public and private high schools throughout the state invited to the Academy - which takes place from June 7-27, 2009, at the University of Missouri - Columbia.

Continuing a tradition that has taken place for more than 20 years, a fleet of eight classic cars - carrying hamburgers, french fries and onion rings from Chuck-A-Burger Drive-In - pulled into the cul-de-sac behind Ritenour Middle School on May 20.

The Ritenour School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Sandy Wiley as principal of Iveland Elementary School. In addition, Iveland welcomes Amanda Wohosky as assistant principal. Both appointments are effective July 1, 2009.

The Ritenour School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Ryan Day as assistant principal at Kratz Elementary effective July 1, 2009. This past school year, Day has served as assistant principal at Marion Elementary. He joined the district from the North Wood R-IV School District in Salem, Mo., where he taught sixth through eighth grade.

The Ritenour School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Mary Beth Fortney as principal of Marvin Elementary School. In addition, Marvin welcomes Michael Smith as assistant principal. Both appointments are effective July 1, 2009.

The Ritenour School District is pleased to announce the new elementary school administrative teams for next school year:

Ritenour High School’s annual Baseball Card Show takes place from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2009 inside Costilow Fieldhouse at Ritenour High School, 9100 St. Charles Rock Road. St. Louis Cardinals players are scheduled to sign autographs. Players and autograph times will be announced at a later date.

The Ritenour School District will receive an 81 percent discount on telecommunications, Internet and data services during the 2000-2010 school year thanks to awards from the E-Rate program. E-Rate funds will save Ritenour $188,723.

Forty young women from Kratz, Marion and Wyland Elementary schools joined together for a powerful and educational experience. The three schools joined forces to host the Empowering Young Women’s Conference at Wyland Elementary.

Because the Ritenour School district used only three of its six allocated snow days during the 2008-2009 school year, the final day of school for students is Tuesday, June 2, 2009. Dismissal for the elementary and middle schools will be as regularly scheduled. Final examinations at Ritenour High School are scheduled on the mornings of June 1-2 with half-day attendance.

Ritenour graduate Steve Cash backstopped the United States National Sled Hockey team to its first ever World Championship over the weekend, shutting out Norway 1-0 on Saturday in Ostrava, Czech Republic. Cash, Team USA’s starting goaltender, turned away all 11 shots he faced and was named player of the game.

The Ritenour School District is pleased to announce the appointment of three elementary school principals – Sandy Wiley at Iveland Elementary, Mary Beth Fortney at Marvin Elementary and Kathy Pfeifer at Wyland Elementary. All appointments are effective July 1, 2009.

The Ritenour High School cheerleading program received a $500 donation from the parent of a recent RHS graduate. Sherri Dunsing – mother of 2008 graduate Alyssa Dunsing – is an employee of Citigroup and a volunteer for the RHS cheerleading squad. Through its Volunteer Incentive Program, Citigroup employees who volunteer more than 50 hours in a calendar year for an eligible organization – like the RHS cheerleading program – may apply for a $500 grant from the Citi Foundation for that organization.

Baby chicks are being born this week at Marion Elementary, and you can follow along on the Internet. The school has set up a pair of Web cams to watch the newborns emerge from their shells. Anyone from across the globe can tune in 24 hours-a-day.

Preparing healthy school meals and offering a friendly greeting are all in a day's work for 56 child nutrition employees in the Ritenour School District's 10 school cafeterias and kitchens. Ritenour celebrates this professional commitment with National Child Nutrition Employee Appreciation Week – May 4-8, 2009. This week is an opportunity for parents, students, school staff and communities to thank those who provide healthy school meals to more than 5,000 Ritenour children each school day.

Ritenour schools celebrated in a variety of ways to honor Earth Day on April 22. Students helped clean up a local park, planted flowers, participated in a nationwide initiative to decorate paper grocery bags and more.

Chantell Mason, a first grade teacher at Iveland Elementary, had the amazing opportunity to meet United States Vice President Joe Biden last week. Biden led a town hall style meeting the University of Missouri - St. Louis (UMSL) to discuss college affordability with recent graduates, new teachers, and current students. Mason – a recent UMSL graduate and a first-year teacher in Ritenour – was invited because of her role as a student leader and through her activity with the National Education Association at the state and national level.

The Ritenour School District has selected Tonya Ryan of Kratz Elementary as the district Diamond Circle Teacher of the Year and Administrative Center Application Support Specialist Sharon Ellis as the Diamond Circle Employee of the Year. The district also named eight other teachers as Diamond Circle recipients for their respective schools. Diamond Circle Awards are given to teachers and staff that best exemplify the district’s commitment to quality education and service. Awardees are chosen each year by colleagues at their buildings.

The Ritenour community is invited to review new Career and Technical Education (CTE) and Family Consumer Science (FACS) curriculum for students in the district. During the past year, curriculum for the CTE and FACS has been reviewed and revised by district staff. Textbooks and resource materials have also been reviewed and proposed for adoption.

Music students at Ritenour have celebrated many achievements recently. Talented students earned honors at a national competition, brought home district awards and were invited to take part in many prestigious competitions. Their accomplishments and honors are listed below.

Ritenour High School (RHS) earth sciences students went poolside for some hands-on lessons about oceanography. Students donned scuba gear with a little help from representatives of The Great American Diving Company. RHS Science teacher Rick Rodgers used the lesson and equipment to talk about underwater pressure, exploration and other oceanography concepts.

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.

Students at Buder Elementary School were jumping rope - and supporting a great cause - at their school recently. Buder hosted "Jump Rope for Heart" to help raise money for the American Heart Association. Students raised a total of $3,468.99.

Every year in March, Marion Elementary presents an educational and entertaining program in honor of Black History Month.

Three Ritenour residents have filed their candidacy for the Ritenour School District Board of Education - Virgil Heinle, Brad Thomas (incumbent) and Bob Young (incumbent). Two positions are open this year.

Fifth grade students in the Ritenour School District are invited to the annual Instrumental Music Fair on April 6 and April 7 at Ritenour High School. The band and orchestra rooms are open from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. each night.

Buder Elementary in the Ritenour School District is giving individuals an opportunity to sell gently used items during its second annual bazaar on Saturday, April 25, 2009. Sponsored by the Buder Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO), the event takes place from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the school, located at 10350 Baltimore Ave. in St. Ann. Individuals can purchase a vendor space for $20.

Ritenour School District elementary schools are now accepting kindergarten registrations for the 2009-2010 school year. Children must be 5 years of age on or before July 31, 2009, to enter kindergarten in August. The district offers only full-day kindergarten for all incoming students.

Students at Buder Elementary School spread St. Patrick's Day cheer during a visit to nearby Bentleys Extended Care on March 17. First and fifth grade buddy classes visited with residents, gave them hand-made cards and helped make their day just a little brighter.

Beginning next school year, students attending Ritenour High School (RHS) will have a new class schedule.

Janine Milam's fifth grade class at Marion Elementary School recently held their annual tribute to significant African-Americans in history. Students were divided into groups to research the following African-Americans: Olympian Jackie Joyner Kersee, inventor Jan Matzeliger, businesswoman Madame C.J. Walker, musician Sammy Davis Jr., and educator Booker T. Washington.

Each year the district's calendar committee meets to plan the next school calendar. To aid in long range planning, Ritenour has a three year calendar schedule. This means at any time, parents, students and staff can view the school calendar for the current year and for the next two years.

This week, elementary students throughout the Ritenour School District honored the late Dr. Seuss's birthday and took part in Read Across America. From hosting reading activities to eating Green Eggs and Ham in the cafeteria - Ritenour students marked the occasion in a variety of ways.

Students at Kratz Elementary School received some very important life lessons from the St. Louis Cardinals on Feb. 24. Several members of the major league baseball club - including Fredbird and former major leaguer Joe Cunningham - visited Kratz to educate and entertain students through the "Doin' it Right" program. The assembly focused on three main points - don't do drugs, stay in school, and participate in sports and stay fit.

Candidates hoping to win a seat on the Ritenour School District's Board of Education will participate in an informational candidate public forum at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10, 2009, at Ritenour Middle School, 2500 Marshall Ave.

The Ritenour School District will host a "Kindergarten Kickoff" for parents of students entering kindergarten next fall. The event takes place Tuesday, March 3 from 6:30 - 8 p.m. at Ritenour Middle School, 2500 Marshall Ave.

Kathryn Teoli, an eighth grader at Ritenour Middle, recently won the school's Greek Mythology Bee. Teoli, who earned a medal and certificate, will now enter the National Percy Jackson Mythology Bee for a chance to win the grand prize of a trip for four to Athens, Greece in summer 2009.

Ritenour Board of Education director Dr. George Albin III paid his annual visit to Wyland Elementary School in February to give third-graders lessons on the importance of good dental health.

Four Ritenour High School football players have signed letters of intent to play for Missouri Valley College in Marshall, Mo. next fall. The student-athletes include RHS seniors Antonio McBee, Mikel Neil, Mike Tate and Jordan Williams.

Ritenour High School orchestra students performed in the E. Des Lee High School Music festival on Feb. 10 at the Blanche M. Touhill Performing Arts Center. Ritenour students, selected by audition, rehearsed seven hours with students from nine area schools to prepare for the evening performance - led by Dr. James Richards, director of orchestral activities at the University of Missouri St. Louis.

Students and staff at Wyland Elementary School collected $4,200 for the American Heart Association during its "Hoops for Heart" fundraiser.

"Do You Do a Didgeridoo?" Iveland Elementary music teacher Rhonda Saltzman posed this tongue-twisting question to her fourth grade students as part of a lesson on Australia and its traditional musical instruments. Using the knowledge they gained from the unit, students put their hard work and artistic talent to good use. They created a colorful and insightful bulletin board - telling you everything you would ever like to know about the traditional Australian musical instrument.

Ritenour High School junior guard Corey Allen was recently named Athlete of the Week by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and KTVI-TV (Channel 2). A 6-foot guard, Allen is one of the St. Louis area leaders in scoring, averaging 20.3 points per game, and in steals (2.9 per contest.)

The Ritenour School District has created a Web site dedicated to bond issue improvements scheduled for the next few years. On the site, the district will document the progress of all bond issue projects.

Parents are encouraged to visit the St. Ann Community Center on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2009 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. to take part in the Missouri Child Identification Program. The program is free of charge. Please call (314) 660-3026 or click here for more information.

Ritenour High School (RHS) library will host a special book fair from Scholastic on March 2-9, 2009, to raise funds for new books for classrooms and the library. Proceeds from the fair will also be used to purchase essential classroom resources and support school projects at RHS.

Ritenour School District will sell $20 million of general obligation bonds on Feb. 5, 2009. The bonds, also known as municipal bonds, are the first to be sold as part of the $50 million Proposition K bond issue voters approved in Nov. 2008. Closing for the first series of bonds is Feb. 17.

Students at Ritenour's Re-Entry Center received lessons on engineering, design and - most importantly - life, during a recent visit from two members of the National Society of Black Engineers. Ron Moore and Calvin Walker spent a few hours with students and helped them better understand their jobs as engineers.

During the week of Jan. 25-31, 2009, the Ritenour School District will join communities from across the state to honor the dedicated service of local boards of education during School Board Recognition Week. Our community benefits every day from the dedication and countless hours devoted by our school board - who receive no compensation for their tireless efforts.

Click here to view a video about Ritenour students from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch...

Ritenour High School girls' soccer player Jordan Price signed a letter of intent to play for Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Mo. next fall. Price, a senior at RHS, was joined at the signing by her parents - Charles and Penny Price - as well as Lindenwood women's soccer coach Laurie Kaminski, RHS girls' soccer coach Drew Lohnes and RHS Athletic Director Jason Green.

Twenty Ritenour High School (RHS) students are taking the trip of a lifetime next week. From Jan. 19-21, they will travel to Washington D.C. to attend the Presidential Inauguration 2009. Students and their adult chaperones will witness history as President-elect Barack Obama is sworn into office in as President of the United States.

A Cub Scout who realized his cousin was drowning and pulled him to safety will receive a Heroism Award during a National Court of Honor Ceremony on Wednesday, Jan 14. Marvin Elementary fifth grader Zach Heatley, a member of Cub Scout Pack 531, chartered to the Kratz Elementary PTO in the Ritenour School District, will be recognized at the conclusion of the Greater St. Louis Area Council's Friends of Scouting Kickoff Dinner.

Ritenour High School senior Jacob Myers was selected to the 2008 Missouri Football Coaches Association Academic All-State team. Meyers is the only football player from the Suburban North Conference to receive the honor.

On Jan. 7, the Ritenour Library Committee conducted site visits to several elementary school libraries throughout the St. Louis area. The committee visited six public and private school libraries in Hazelwood, St. Charles and St. Louis. The group was looking at some of the best facilities in the St. Louis area. The site visits allowed them to tour the libraries, ask questions, take photos and view best practices. Photos from the visits appear below.

For the seventh consecutive year, Ritenour School District earned the prestigious Meritorious Budget Award for excellence in the preparation and management of its 2008-2009 annual budget.

Fifth grade students at Buder and Kratz Elementary had an experience they won't soon forget as they "Went to Work" at the Junior Achievement BizTown in Chesterfield, Mo. Students participated in educational activities to build positive foundations and attitudes about business, business leaders and community.

Isaiah Murrell-Thomas, a third grade student at Iveland Elementary in the Ritenour School District, has been selected to attend the National Young Scholars Program (NYSP) in DeKalb, Ill. in the summer of 2009.

Beginning Jan. 5, 2009, the Ritenour Adult Learning Center will be offering new managed enrollment GED classes each morning. Managed enrollment classes offer students the ability to progress faster when committing to attend class for at least 12 hours per week for one month. Classes take place from 8:30 - 11:30 a.m., Monday through Friday. New students can only enter the program on orientation dates - Jan. 5, Feb. 2, March 2 and April 6, 2009.

Ritenour residents interested in filing candidacy for the Ritenour Board of Education election on April 7, 2009, may do so beginning at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2008, at the Ritenour Administrative Center, 2420 Woodson Road, Overland, Mo., 63114. Candidate informational packets and filing guidelines will be available. Filing closes at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2009.

Technology connected a class at Marvin Elementary with a nationally known and award-winning author during a recent videoconference at the school. Fifth grade students had the amazing opportunity to visit with writer Patricia C. McKissack in the Marvin library.

Fifth graders at Iveland Elementary are officially published authors. Students in Ms. Mitzy Mergenthaler's class authored and illustrated a book titled "It All Comes Back to Us, Ways to Care for Our Earth." The book was published through Studentreasures, a company that takes students' writing and illustrations and publishes full-color, hardbound books.

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

Ritenour residents interested in filing candidacy for the Ritenour Board of Education election on April 7, 2009, may do so beginning at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2008, at the Ritenour Administrative Center, 2420 Woodson Road, Overland, Mo., 63114. Candidate informational packets and filing guidelines will be available. Filing closes at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2009.

Ritenour High School hosted its annual Fall Athletics Awards Program on Thursday, Nov. 20. Student-athletes from all fall sports were on hand and received recognition for earning all-conference honors, sportsmanship awards, end of season awards and more.

First and second graders at Iveland Elementary learned about many different types of jobs in their community - from being the mayor of a city, to a firefighter, to a business owner - during the school's "Community Day." Iveland invited officials from throughout the area to teach students about their careers on Wednesday, Nov. 19.

Buder Elementary School received a $1,000 grant from T-Mobile and Wal-Mart.

As part of his ongoing relationship with the Ritenour School District and its students, Braam Mouton - headmaster at Ethembeni School in South Africa - traveled to St. Louis for the second year in a row. He visited three schools, teaching students about life in his country and his school, which serves more than 300 physically disabled and visually impaired children.

Ritenour High School juniors Autumn Barnes and Michelle Niewald were chosen to attend the 2008 Missouri Fine Arts Academy at Missouri State University in Springfield, Mo.

Ritenour School District residents overwhelmingly approved Proposition K - a $50 million dollar bond issue - in the Nov. 4 election. Unofficial results from St. Louis County indicate 12,138 votes (64.83%) supported Prop K while 6,584 (35.17%) opposed it.

- Prop K projects are top priorities to impact student achievement, quality of schools -

Next Monday, Ritenour students will receive a first-hand look at our country's election process through the Kids Voting program. All Ritenour students have the opportunity to vote at their school for the same candidates and issues that will appear on their parents' ballots the following day.

Students and teachers from throughout the Ritenour School District are celebrating "Red Ribbon Week" from Oct. 24-30. "Red Ribbon Week" gives students the opportunity to show their commitment to a drug-free lifestyle. Ritenour students and staff have taken part in spirit days, discussed the negative effects of drugs and made the drug-free pledge.

"Vote - Your Future Depends on It."

The Ritenour High School Renaissance program is hosting a breakfast fundraiser on Saturday, Nov. 22 at Applebee's in St. John, Mo. The "Flapjack Fundraiser" takes place from 8 - 10 a.m.

To commemorate Columbus Day, eighth grade students at Ritenour Middle School (RMS) presented the sixth annual performance of "The Mock Trial of Christopher Columbus." Students and staff members had to determine if Columbus was guilty or not guilty of crimes against humanity in a pair of mock trials held in the school's assembly room.

What is a bond issue?

In this important and historical election year, one race will be decided this week. Who will be the next President of School Lunch?

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 Oct. 9.

Ritenour High School Activities Director Jerry Nolen received the 2008 Outstanding Administrator Award from the Speech and Theater Association of Missouri (STAM). Administrators from across the state were considered for the award, which was presented during the organization's annual conference and awards banquet at the Sheraton Westport Chalet Hotel in St. Louis.

Lisa Williams, a language arts teacher at Ritenour High School (RHS), is the recipient of a 2008 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award.

Ritenour celebrated the induction of five new graduates into its Hall of Fame at a beautiful dinner and ceremony at the Renaissance St. Louis Hotel Airport on Friday, Sept. 26.

Don't miss Ritenour's Homecoming events this weekend. Homecoming is full of fun activities for the entire family - including the annual parade on Saturday morning followed by the football game against Riverview Gardens that afternoon. This year, Ritenour's homecoming theme is "Around the World."

This fall, Ritenour students will cast ballots for the same candidates and issues as adult voters as they get a first-hand look at our country's election process through Kids Voting, USA. Students learn about democracy through a combination of classroom activities, an authentic voting experience and family dialogue.

Do you have an old band or orchestra musical instrument in your home that's no longer being used?

The Ritenour School District will celebrate its annual homecoming weekend Sept. 26-27, 2008. The weekend is full of fun activities for the entire family. This year, Ritenour's homecoming theme is "Around the World."

The Ritenour School District has launched a new Web site to provide details about Proposition K, a $50 million bond issue on the Nov. 4, 2008 ballot. The site can be accessed by visiting the Ritenour School District home page at www.ritenour.k12.mo.us and clicking on the Proposition K logo.

The cafeteria at Kratz Elementary was the place to be for students and their grandparents this week. On Thursday and Friday, a packed house enjoyed many hugs, smiles, laughs and breakfast favorites during the school's Grandparents Day celebration. The events helped recognize the 30th anniversary of National Grandparents Day - which takes place Sunday, Sept. 7.

It all began with a simple e-mail.

Tickets are on sale now for the Ritenour Hall of Fame induction ceremony and banquet on Friday, Sept. 26. Don't miss this wonderful event as Ritenour High School welcomes five outstanding graduates to its Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony 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) 493-6080.

Last year, 26 teachers and administrators from the Ritenour School District attended a three-day institute about culturally responsive teaching at Webster University. The seminar, led by nationally known speaker Dr. Sharrokly Hollie, dealt with meeting the learning needs of African American and Hispanic students through culturally responsive teaching methods.

The youngest Ritenour students are hard at work each and every day - learning their letters and numbers, developing an advanced vocabulary and getting ready to be students at a "big kid" school. For many three, four and five year olds in the Ritenour School District, the path to long-term educational success begins at the Early Childhood Center (ECC).

The Ritenour Alumni Association will host its 13th annual golf tournament Sunday, Oct. 5, 2008 at Eagle Springs Golf Course.

It's August 5, 2008, one of the hottest days of the summer so far. With the temperature at 96 degrees, it would be the perfect day to lounge by the pool with a glass of ice water or sit in the air conditioning. Besides, there is less than one week until schools starts in the Ritenour School District. But, Kratz Elementary third grade teacher Bridget Elder thinks this is the perfect time to visit each of her students personally before the start of the new year.

Adult students can earn a high school diploma, GED, or brush up on basic skills like reading and math through the Ritenour School District's Adult Education program.

Bonds Will Add Technology, Build New Early Childhood Center, Auditorium

Ritenour High School student Chelsie Fetsch is one of 18 rising tenth-grade students in the GEAR UP-St. Louis program who recently returned from the GEAR UP-St. Louis 2008 Traveling College Tour. This year's tour took place July 18-24 with a visit to Washington, D.C.

The first day of school for Ritenour School District students is Monday, Aug. 11, 2008. Ritenour is excited to celebrate the beginning of its 141st year! Information is listed below to help you get ready for the upcoming school year.

The Ritenour School District will celebrate the start of its 2008-2009 school year during its annual Black and Orange Day on Friday, Aug. 15, 2008 at Ritenour High School. The event takes place from 5-8 p.m. Admission is free.

Ritenour School District students will voice their opinion about who should be the next President of the United States through Kids Voting this fall. Ritenour students - in grades kindergarten through 12 - will cast Kids Voting ballots for the same candidates and issues as adult voters on Tuesday, Nov. 4 as they get a first-hand look at our country's election process.

Voting is a privilege Americans value, but you must be registered to make your voice heard at the polls. Ritenour schools can help. You can resister to vote at any Ritenour school.

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. Missouri laws require all children to have up-to-date immunizations prior to the first day of school.

The Ritenour School District is seeking older-adult volunteers to help make sure no child lacks the ability to read. Ritenour, in partnership with the national award-winning OASIS Intergenerational Tutoring Program, is seeking volunteers 50 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.

Five new outstanding alumni have been selected for the Ritenour High School (RHS) Hall of Fame Class of 2008. The new members - Thomas R. Hughes, Dr. Janet Ruzycki, Robert Scheffing, Dr. James E. Westbury and Rear Admiral Charles A. "Chuck" Williams will be inducted during Ritenour's homecoming weekend - Sept. 26-27, 2008.

By Janine Milam
Third Grade Teacher, Marion Elementary School

Thanks to a pair of generous donations from Emerson, students at Iveland Elementary in the Ritenour School District will start next school year with two interactive whiteboards to help them with their studies. The St. Louis based company has donated more than $7,500 to the school for a pair of whiteboards, projectors, a laptop computer and other technology.

Recent Ritenour High School graduate Ben Knight used his artistic talents to leave a lasting legacy at his alma mater.

Three recent Ritenour High School (RHS) graduates did what they could to help the environment - and at the same time made the Administrative Center a more beautiful place. Ryan Curtis, Stephan Studer and Michelle Tang spent a Saturday planting native Missouri plants throughout the property.

Program Gives Students Lessons on Healthy Eating, Helping the Environment

Professionals from Emerson Electric gave insight into the many career choices available to students at Hoech Middle School as part of "Junior Achievement in a Day." Volunteers from Emerson, in partnership with the Junior Achievement Economics of Success program, showcased their backgrounds in human resources, law, accounting, computer design, international sales and much more. The event took place at the end of the school year.

Students in group 7B at Hoech Middle School have joined the Fortune 500 list. No, they aren't a part of the top 500 American public corporations that annually make up the list - the students are part of an even more select group. They are 7B students who turned in 100 percent of their assignments for all five subjects in a given quarter.

Ritenour High School (RHS) German teacher Patrick Quinn was chosen to attend an intensive three-week seminar for American educators in Berlin, Germany this month. Quinn is one of only 20 American teachers selected by the German-American Fulbright Commission.

- Ritenour Middle One of Only Four Missouri Schools to Win Gold Award -

Ritenour High School sophomore Michael Harris received the Editor's Choice Award for outstanding achievement in poetry from poetry.com and the International Library of Poetry.

The Hoech Middle School Orchestra brought home three trophies from the Music Showcase Festival Competition at Six Flags. Following many outstanding performances, Hoech students were recognized as Best Instrumental Group, Best String Orchestra and Best Section. The Best Instrumental Group award was the top honor at the competition.

Students in the English language learner (ELL) program at Iveland Elementary School now have books they can read with their parents over the summer thanks to a $300 grant from Shop n' Save. With the funds, the school started a bilingual library - with books written in both English - and Spanish, Russian, Chinese and Vietnamese.

Samantha Collier and Kathryn Teoli, seventh graders at Ritenour Middle School, were recognized by the state of Missouri for their results on the SAT through the Duke Talent Search.

Two at a time, students walked the red carpet in Iveland Elementary School's gymnasium. When they reached the front, students received a special award for avoiding office referrals and for being fight free for the entire school year. In what has become an annual tradition at Iveland, the school hosted its Red Carpet Ceremony.

Ritenour's nationally accredited Early Childhood Center (ECC) is accepting enrollments for both full-day and half-day preschool classes. Before and after care is also available. Classes begin Aug. 11 and space is limited.

Kratz Elementary students reeled in some fun - and gained some valuable knowledge about the environment - during a visit to one of the Forest Park fish hatchery lakes in St. Louis.

Thousands of family and friends were on hand to congratulate Ritenour High School (RHS) graduates as they received their diplomas and opened the book to the next chapter of their lives. Despite the rain over the weekend, the graduation ceremony took place outside at John L. Moore Field on Saturday, May 24, 2008. The evening capped a year filled with numerous achievements.

Several St. Louis Cardinal players are scheduled to sign autographs at Ritenour High School's annual Baseball Card Show from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 31, 2008. The event takes place inside the Costilow Fieldhouse at Ritenour High School, 9100 St. Charles Rock Road.

The Ritenour School District has selected Melissa Hamilton as the district Diamond Circle Teacher of the Year and Sue Quinn as the Diamond Circle Employee of the Year. The district also named nine other teachers as Diamond Circle recipients for their respective schools. Diamond Circle Awards are given to teachers and staff that best exemplify the district's commitment to quality education and service. Awardees are chosen each year by colleagues at their schools.

Carrie Culver, a third grade teacher a Buder Elementary School, has been awarded a professional development scholarship from the Cooperating School Districts of Greater St. Louis (CSD). Culver is one of five teachers in the St. Louis area to receive an award, which is given annually to assist highly deserving teachers with the opportunity to continue their professional development.

Third grade students in Mrs. Diana Katz's room at Iveland Elementary shared some wonderful poetry with a very special guest from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Kevin Horrigan, deputy editorial page editor and columnist at the newspaper, was on hand as the guest of honor for the event.

The Ritenour School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Carolyn Leuthauser as Assistant Principal at Hoech Middle School and Terrance Peterson as Assistant Principal at Ritenour High School (RHS) effective July 1, 2008.

Meal prices in the Ritenour School District will increase by 25 cents per meal for the 2008-2009 school year. The measure was approved by the Ritenour Board of Education at its regular business meeting May 8, 2008.

Representatives from five different continents gave students at Marion Elementary School some important lessons on their cultures, customs and pastimes as part of the school's International Day celebration.

Paintings, drawings, watercolors, ceramics and more will be on display at the annual Ritenour School District Art Show from May 6-11 at Wild Acres Gymnasium, located at 10400 Midland Blvd. in Overland, Mo. The art exhibit is free and open to the public.

Ritenour High School (RHS) has qualified for designation as an "A+ School" by the state of Missouri. The State Board of Education approved the schools' A+ status last week during its regular meeting in Jefferson City, Mo. As a result, students in the A+ program at RHS may receive state-paid tuition assistance to attend a Missouri community college or technical school. Many Missouri four-year institutions are offering scholarships for the students who qualify for A+ funds.

Two first graders at Kratz Elementary School were selected for special recognition in the "Do the Right Thing" Program.

During its April business meeting, the Ritenour Board of Education modified the 2007-2008 academic calendar as well as approved the calendars for the 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 school years. The Board also approved the changes to the 2008-2009 calendar to provide six days for inclement weather as required by state law.

The Ritenour School District will receive an 81 percent discount on telecommunications, Internet and data services during the 2007-2008 school year thanks to awards from the E-Rate program. E-Rate funds will save Ritenour $183,120 this school year.

To commemorate Earth Day, sixth grade students at Hoech Middle School are taking part in nationwide initiative to decorate paper grocery bags with environmentally friendly messages. For the past four years, students have received paper bags from the Shop ‘n Save in St. John, Mo., decorated them with environmentally friendly drawings and messages and returned them for shoppers to take home as part of the Earth Day Groceries Project.

Doug Bray, Communications Specialist for the Ritenour School District, received the Missouri School Public Relations Association's (MoSPRA) Rookie of the Year award at the organization's annual spring meeting in Lake Ozark, Mo.

For finding creative ways to engage students by integrating technology into the classroom, Hoech Middle School has been selected to receive a $2,000 Best Buy Teach Award.

The Ritenour Board of Education re-elected Bob Young President and Tom Drennan as Vice President at its April 10 meeting.

Ritenour High School (RHS) students and the entire community have the opportunity to meet new principal Tony Robinson at a pancake breakfast on Saturday, April 19. The event takes place from 8-10 a.m. at the Applebee's in St. John, Mo., 9090 St. Charles Rock Road. The meal includes pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, orange juice and coffee. Tickets cost $10 per plate and can be purchased by calling (314) 493-6105 ext. 1260. The RHS Renaissance program is organizing the event.

Ritenour High School presents the Broadway musical "Anything Goes!" from April 16-19, 2008. All shows begin at 7 p.m. in the North Gymnasium at Ritenour High School, 9100 St. Charles Rock Road. The public is invited to attend this romantic comedy set in the 1930s involving Wall Street tycoons, gangsters, English gentlemen and nightclub singers. Tickets cost $5 in advance, $6 for reserved seating and $6 at the door the night of show.

Sixth graders at Hoech Middle School celebrated poetry - and many famous poets - during a special presentation at their school. As part of the culmination of their unit on poetry - students hosted an event titled "Power of Poetry."

While Ritenour students and staff are on spring break next week, the Overland Police Department (OPD) will be busy training at two Ritenour Schools. So, don't worry if you see several police cars surrounding a Ritenour school during the break - it's only training.

For the 16th consecutive year, Ritenour Middle School hosted its bookmark design contest. Students submitted nearly 140 outstanding original designs into this year's competition. Fifteen winners were chosen. The contest was open to all students at the school.

The Ritenour community is invited to review new social studies curriculum for students in the district. During the past six months the Ritenour Social Studies Committee has studied model programs, analyzed exemplary instructional practices and reviewed resource materials. As a result of that process, the committee has chosen new materials to be presented for public review and Ritenour Board of Education approval.

Ritenour Board of Education director Dr. George Albin III paid his annual visit to Wyland Elementary School on March 13 to teach third-graders the importance of good dental health. But, this time his lesson was enhanced due to some of the district's new technology.

After being rescheduled because of snow days in the past few weeks, Marion Elementary held its Black History Month program on Wednesday, March 12. The hour-long event featured a wonderful multi-media presentation, video tributes, skits and musical numbers performed by students and staff.

Ritenour School District residents can learn more about community services offered in their area during a resource fair on Wednesday, March 19. The free event takes place from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. at Hoech Middle School, 3312 Ashby Road in St. Ann, Mo.

Candidates hoping to win a seat on the Ritenour School District's Board of Education will participate in an informational candidate public forum at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, March 12, 2008, at Ritenour Middle School, 2500 Marshall Ave.

Fifth grade students at Iveland Elementary took the audience on a musical tour of the United States during their annual musical titled "Destination America." From Motown, to county, to rock n' roll - students paid tribute to many different musical genres during a performance in the school's gymnasium.

Buder Elementary School in the Ritenour School District is giving individuals an opportunity to sell gently used children's clothing and toys (birth to 12 years) during its first annual Children's Bazaar. Sponsored by the Buder Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), the event takes place from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 26 at the school, located at 10350 Baltimore Ave. in St. Ann.

Ritenour School District elementary schools are now accepting kindergarten registrations for the 2008-2009 school year. Children must be 5 years of age on or before July 31, 2008, to enter kindergarten in August. The district offers only full-day kindergarten for all incoming students.

Candidates hoping to win a seat on the Ritenour School District's Board of Education will participate in an informational candidate public forum at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, March 12, 2008, at Ritenour Middle School, 2500 Marshall Ave.

As part of their studies on ecosystems and adaptations, sixth grade science students at Hoech Middle School received an up-close look at some fascinating reptiles, mammals and birds of prey.

Fifth graders in Mrs. Tonya Ryan's class at Kratz Elementary School had the amazing opportunity to view historical handmade quilts at part of their studies on the Civil War and Black History Month. The quilts - depicting secret codes for slaves escaping to freedom - were shown to the students by Mrs. Dezzie Houston, a guest teacher.

Using simple recycled materials, pipe insulation and a marble, fifth graders at Iveland Elementary created some amazing roller coasters as part of their studies on physics. The miniature amusement rides featured all of the twists and turns of a regular coaster - but easily fit onto a stage in the gymnasium at the school.

Below freezing temperatures and an icy lake were no match for some determined students, administrators and school resource officers from Ritenour High School. Wearing their orange and black, a select few took the plunge into Creve Coeur Lake on Saturday, Feb. 16. But, they were "freezin' for a reason" - as the school raised more than $1,700 for Special Olympics during the 2008 Polar Bear Plunge.

Students and staff at Ritenour Middle School showed that just a little spare change could go a long way towards helping cancer patients. Students at RMS collected more than $1,500 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society during its recent "Pennies for Patients" fundraiser.

The Ritenour School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Dorlita Adams as principal of Kratz Elementary School effective July 1, 2008. Adams is currently serving as the Interim Principal at the school.

For the sixth consecutive year, Ritenour School District earned the prestigious Meritorious Budget Award for excellence in the preparation and management of its 2007-2008 annual budget. While every school district has an annual budget to manage expenditures and revenue, the Meritorious Budget Award is only given to school districts that meet or exceed the rigorous award program criteria. Less than one percent of the nation's school district receive the award presented by the Association of School Business Officials (ASBO) International.

The Ritenour School District Board of Education has selected the AlertNow rapid communication service to help keep families informed of school events or emergencies. The Board approved a three-year contract for the service during a special session on Thursday, Feb. 7.

Gifted and talented students at Marvin Elementary School hosted an amazing program in celebration of the Chinese New Year and to showcase their learning on Feb. 7. Dressed in traditional costumes, students shared information about the Chinese culture, challenged those in attendance with riddles, displayed their individual projects and awed the crowd with humor and enthusiasm.

More than 100 Ritenour School District students currently have their artwork on display at the St. Louis Artists' Guild in Clayton, Mo. The exhibit, hosted in the Monsanto Children's Gallery, features artwork from students at Iveland and Kratz Elementary schools.

Some of the latest in technology, including Laptops, SMART Boards and Moodle are all part of the educational experience for some sixth grade students at Hoech Middle School. Hoech is one of two schools in the Ritenour School District to receive new technology through the eMINTS/METS Classroom Grant Program sponsored by the state of Missouri.

The Ritenour Hall of Fame Committee is now accepting nominations for the class of 2008. Ritenour's Hall of Fame is a tribute to graduates who have shown exceptional personal, community or professional achievements. Nominations must be received by March 1, 2008.

The Ritenour School District has launched an exciting new program to help improve communication between school and home. The program, Ritenour Home Access Center (HAC), is an Internet based, real-time tool allowing parents and legal guardians of Ritenour students to view their child's attendance record, report card, schedule, teacher e-mail addresses, emergency contact information and much more. Parents/guardians can also sign up for e-mail alerts regarding attendance and discipline information.

Ritenour High School senior running back Derrick Valley has been selected to represent the Huskies in the prestigious Missouri Lions All-Star Football Game this summer. The game features many of the top senior football players in the state.

United States Congressman William Lacy Clay took time out of his busy schedule to meet with students and staff at Ritenour High School during a special visit on Thursday, Jan. 10.

Students at Ritenour High School (RHS) raised more than $600 for relief efforts in Bangladesh. The funds were donated to the Red Cross and will be used to purchase medical supplies for those affected by Tropical Cyclone Sidr last November. Sidr was the deadliest storm to hit Bangladesh in many years, destroying tens of thousands of homes and killing thousands.

The storyline came straight from the script of a television crime drama. A fictional fire breaks out in the library at Marion Elementary School. Was it arson or just an accident? That is what five gifted and talented students had to find out.

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.

Actor Bill Chott is featured in the Dec. 19 edition of the Suburban Journals. The 1987 Ritenour graduate organized the second annual Christmas Improv Jam for the St. Louis Area Foodbank.

Hoech Middle School in the Ritenour School District will be closed on Monday, Dec. 17, 2007 due to a water main break. All after school and evening activities at the building are cancelled as well.

The Ritenour High School Rhythmettes dance team qualified for the Missouri state dance championships following outstanding performances at the Yvonne Cole Lindbergh Invitational Dance Team Contest on Dec. 1.

Chris Whited, a sophomore at Ritenour High School (RHS), was selected for membership in the 2008 St. Louis All-Suburban Honor Band. Whited, a percussionist, was also chosen as an alternate for the 2008 Missouri All-State Band.

Evan Antoine, a senior at Ritenour High School (RHS), was selected for membership in the 2008 Missouri All-State Orchestra. A cellist, Antoine was chosen following a competitive audition on Dec. 1 at the University of Missouri in Columbia, Mo. This is the second consecutive year Antoine has been selected to the all-state orchestra.

Randy Nadler, renowned world traveler, told students at Kratz Elementary School tales of his recent trip to China during an assembly on Dec. 3. Through a fun, fast paced presentation, Nadler shared a travelogue of his journey last summer.

The Ritenour School District has named Aaron Winkler Interim Assistant Principal at Marion Elementary School for the remainder of the 2007-2008 school year. Winkler is filling in for Assistant Principal Susan Houston, who is out on medical leave.

Ritenour residents interested in filing candidacy for the Ritenour Board of Education election on April 8, 2008, may do so beginning at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2007, at the Ritenour Administrative Center, 2420 Woodson Road, Overland, Mo., 63114. Candidate informational packets and filing guidelines will be available. Filing closes at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2008.

Fifth grade students at Marvin Elementary School discovered how simple machines play a part in everyday life during a special program at their school on Nov. 26.

Ritenour High School drama students are presenting their fall play "Our Town," written by renowned American playwright Thornton Wilder, from Nov. 29 - Dec. 1, 2007. All shows begin at 7 p.m. in the North Gymnasium at Ritenour High School, 9100 St. Charles Rock Road. Tickets cost $6 and can be purchased at the door. For more information, call (314) 493-6105.

Students at the Ritenour Early Childhood Center (ECC) welcomed grandparents for a special breakfast on Nov. 15. Muffins, fruit, juice and many really big smiles were on the menu. The students - ages three to five years old - were thrilled to have their grandparents in attendance.

Buder Elementary students honored those who served our country in the military during a special ceremony to commemorate Veterans Day on Nov. 8. Nearly 20 veterans from all branches of the military were in attendance. The program featured a ceremony to honor those who served in the military, students singing patriotic songs and performances from the Ritenour High School Band.

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 Nov. 8.

Ritenour students had the amazing opportunity to learn about life in another country, cultures around the world and the value of education globally from a renowned school headmaster from South Africa. Braam Mouton, from Ethembeni - a school that serves 300 physically disabled and visually impaired children - visited Ritenour on Nov. 8 to speak to students and staff at four elementary schools. Mouton visited Kratz, Marion, Iveland and Marvin Elementary and spoke to fourth and fifth grade students during his daylong visit to the Gateway City.

Arrrr maties! Students in Mrs. Laura Grubb's kindergarten class at Buder Elementary School recently celebrated "Pirate Day." Grubb provided the students with pirate hats, eye patches and mustaches and took them on a treasure hunt. In this case the booty wasn't gold or even candy - students searched the building for various clues that had to do with letters and kindergarten sight words.

Athletes from Ritenour High School (RHS) are out to prove to elementary students that it is "cool" to read and be a good student. RHS football players spent part of their day in late October acting as positive role models and reading to students at Kratz and Marvin elementary schools.

Two students at from Buder Elementary School were recognized on the field prior to the St. Louis Rams game on Sunday, Oct. 28. The fifth-grade students - Sang Mai and Megan Hardesty - were winners in a Black History Month essay-writing contest sponsored by the Rams.

Students and teachers from throughout the Ritenour School District celebrated "Red Ribbon Week" from Oct. 22-25. "Red Ribbon Week" gives students the opportunity to show their commitment to a drug-free lifestyle. Ritenour students and staff took part in spirit days, discussed the negative effects of drugs and made the drug-free pledge.

This is National School Bus Safety Week. More than 3,000 Ritenour students ride the bus to and from school every day. The cooperation of children, parents, bus drivers and motorists is essential to keep our students safe as they are being transported to school, to after-school activities and back to their homes.

Twelve members of the Grubbs family were inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame - Missouri Chapter on Oct. 6, 2007. Patriarchs of the incredible wrestling heritage at Ritenour High School, the family was involved with the wrestling program for nearly 60 years. Two generations of the Grubbs family received Lifetime Service Award honors from the Hall of Fame, including: Willard and Isabelle Grubbs* (parents), Ray "Pete" Grubbs*, Bob Grubbs, Ron Grubbs, Jay Roades, Willard (Bill) Grubbs, Jr.*, Norman Grubbs*, Jack Grubbs*, Lee Grubbs and Barry Roades*.

Lisa Hogbin, a first-grade teacher at Marvin Elementary, is the recipient of a 2007 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award.

Students at the Ritenour Early Childhood Center (ECC) learned safety tips from local firefighters as part of National Fire Prevention Week. Firefighters from Engine Co. 3810, located on St. Charles Rock Road, taught valuable lessons about fire safety, gave students an up-close look at a fire engine and even let them try on their gear.

Christopher Columbus - guilty or not guilty of crimes against humanity? That is what students and teachers at Hoech Middle School had to determine during a mock trial on Columbus Day.

Alicia Barnes and George Meisinger, seniors at Ritenour High School, earned the designation of AP Scholar in recognition of their exceptional achievement on the college-level Advanced Placement Program (AP) Exams. Only 18 percent of high school students worldwide who took the exams earned AP Scholar status.

Hoech Middle School students got a taste of the great outdoors during a recent overnight camping trip to Cuivre River State Park in Troy, Mo. Sixth grade students participated in several academic activities, as well as team building exercises and games.

Ritenour School District administrators raced against their counterparts from the Pattonville School District during the fourth annual "Mingle at the Mills" on Friday, Sept. 28. The NASCAR SpeedPark at the St. Louis Mills in Hazelwood, Mo. was the site for the go-cart races. The event is a fundraiser hosted by the Northwest Chamber of Commerce.

Iveland Elementary students joined in the quest for "whirled peace" by creating pinwheels to celebrate International Peace Day. The students participated in a nationwide project called "Pinwheels for Peace" where they made and decorated pinwheels with artwork and writing that depicts peace.

2007 Homecoming Photo Gallery

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, Sept. 21.

Students at Ritenour High School (RHS) took part in a workshop that is not for the faint of heart. Mr. Dan McClain's biology and forensic science students had the unique opportunity to look inside the human body during a cadaver demonstration and autopsy via videoconference on Thursday, Sept. 20. The program is offered by the Saint Louis University School of Medicine's Adventures in Medicine and Science program.

Don't miss all of Ritenour's homecoming festivities this weekend. Homecoming is full of fun activities for the entire family. This year's theme is "A Dream Come True."

The new Media Center has been creating quite a buzz at Ritenour High School (RHS). Students and staff returned to school this year to find a newly renovated library and media center. The facility features new computers for writing and research, a media classroom with video conferencing capabilities, more bookshelves and renovated space to accommodate additional students and increased technology. It officially opened for students and staff in September. The renovations were funded by the 2005 bond issue.

The Ritenour Alumni Association will host its 12th annual golf tournament Sunday, Oct. 7 at Eagle Springs Golf Course. Tee time is 1 p.m.

The Ritenour School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Peggy Mavers as coordinator for the Adult Education and Literacy Program.

Students at Buder Elementary received many great rewards - and some cool treats - for reading books this summer. Buder held its annual summer reading rewards program and 59 students turned in packets to librarian Donna Brown. Students earned rewards based on the number of books they read - including an ice cream party and a free book.

Marvin Elementary School celebrated the unveiling and launch of the newest St. Louis County Library Bookmobile on Tuesday, Aug. 28. Ritenour Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Compton, St. Louis County Executive Charlie Dooley, and officials from St. Louis County Library and The Boeing Company were on hand for the introduction of the library's tenth bookmobile. Boeing donated $60,000 for the purchase of the mobile library unit and participated in the designing of the bookmobile's exterior.

Don't miss Ritenour's homecoming weekend, Sept. 21-22. The weekend is full of fun activities for the entire family. The homecoming theme is "A Dream Come True."

Fifteen Ritenour High School (RHS) students had the experience of a lifetime this summer - performing at Carnegie Hall in New York City. The students, members of Ritenour High School's A Cappella Choir and Advanced Women's Chorus, spent five days in the Big Apple in June. The group was led by RHS Director of Choral Activities Dr. Richard Bell.

The Ritenour School District is hosting an Internet safety event for all district residents at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 12 in the cafeteria at Ritenour Middle School, 2500 Marshall Ave. The presentation will provide practical tips and technical knowledge to help safeguard children while they are on the Internet.

Dr. Max Wolfrum, consultant to the superintendent for the Ritenour School District, has been honored by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) as a "Pioneer in Education." The award recognizes Wolfrum's distinguished career and contributions to public education.

Most students throughout the Ritenour School District headed back-to-school today. Ritenour is excited to celebrate the beginning of another great year!

For the fifth consecutive year, Ritenour School District earned the prestigious Meritorious Budget Award for excellence in the preparation and management of its 2006-2007 annual budget.

The Ritenour School District has spent the summer months busily preparing for the upcoming school year. Our schools are ready to greet students when they return to school Monday, Aug. 13. Ritenour is excited to celebrate the beginning of another great year!

The Ritenour School District is seeking older-adult volunteers to help make sure no child lacks the ability to read. Ritenour, 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.

The Ritenour School District will celebrate the start of its 2007-2008 school year during its annual Black and Orange Day on Friday, Aug. 17, 2007 at Ritenour High School. The event takes place from 5-8 p.m. Admission is free.

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.

Ritenour High School (RHS) is "leading the way" when it comes to teaching math, science and engineering. More than 60 students are participating in a program called Project Lead the Way (PLTW) - a hands-on and problem-based curriculum that teaches students about engineering and engineering technology

The Ritenour School District offers award-winning and nationally recognized programs for children from birth to age five through its Early Childhood Center.

The Ritenour School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Carolyn Leuthauser as Interim Assistant Principal at Hoech Middle School for the 2007-2008 school year.

The Ritenour School District earned a national award for one of its publications from the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) at its annual meeting in Phoenix, Ariz.

Four Ritenour schools were recognized for their Positive Behavior Support (PBS) programs by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Buder Elementary, Iveland Elementary, Hoech Middle School and Ritenour Middle School were honored at Missouri's Positive Behavior Support Summer Institute.

Four new outstanding alumni have been selected for the Ritenour High School Hall of Fame's Class of 2007. Sallie Coffman, Dr. James G. Klarsch, Lillie Sloan Thomas and Major General Walter E. Webb III will be inducted during Ritenour's homecoming weekend - Sept. 21-22, 2007.

Ritenour High School (RHS) athlete Chad Riegel did the right thing on the golf course, and now he is being honored at a national sportsmanship event. Riegel is the first-ever recipient of the "Good Sport" award from the AT&T National Sportsmanship Awards. The "Good Sport" award recognizes one St. Louis area youth athlete, age 8 to 18, who demonstrates the ideals and very meaning of sportsmanship through a specific act or overall approach. He will be honored on Thursday, June 21 during the National Sportsmanship Awards. The ceremony begins at 7 p.m. at the Chase Park Plaza in St. Louis.

The Ritenour School District is pleased to announce the appointment of two new administrators at Kratz Elementary School. Dorlita Adams has been selected to serve as interim principal and Mary Beth Fortney as assistant principal effective July 1, 2007.

The Ritenour School District will offer full-day kindergarten for all incoming students beginning next school year. In the past, full-day kindergarten was only available on a lottery basis. Half-day kindergarten will no longer be offered by the district.

Cindy Gibson, Assistant to the Superintendent for Communications with Ritenour School District, has earned Accreditation in Public Relations (APR). Gibson is only one of seven Missouri public school communication professionals to hold this esteemed accreditation.

For the third consecutive year, the Ritenour School District Board of Education has been selected for the Missouri School Boards' Association (MSBA) Education Leadership Team Award. The prestigious award was earned by only nine of Missouri's 524 public school districts this year. The award is given to school boards that serve as statewide or regional leaders, are committed to professional development, participate in advocacy for public schools, and implement successful education policies.

Students at Buder Elementary School in the Ritenour School District wanted to do something really special for Principal Andrea Taylor, who will retire on June 30. So, they decided to hold an assembly and make her "Queen for the Day."

The Special School District of Saint Louis County awarded Ritenour Middle School, Buder Elementary and Iveland Elementary with the Positive Behavioral Intervention Support (PBIS) Award of Excellence for the schools successful programs.

To recognize students for displaying peaceful behavior throughout the school year, Iveland Elementary School held its annual Red Carpet Ceremony on the final day of the school year.

St. Louis Cardinal players are scheduled to sign autographs at Ritenour High School's annual Baseball Card Show from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 9, 2007. The event takes place inside the Costilow Fieldhouse at Ritenour High School, 9100 St. Charles Rock Road.

Parents are needed to volunteer to serve on the Special School District (SSD) Interdistrict Parent Advisory Council (I-PAC). The SSD I-PAC was formed to fulfill legislative directives for the State of Missouri. It consists of three parents elected from each of the 23 local districts and from the five SSD schools. Terms are for two years and elections are staggered with half of the districts/schools holding elections each year. SSD I-PAC charges include consulting with the SSD Governing Council, Board of Education, and Administration as well as with the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education on issues involving pupils and parent of pupils receiving services from SSD. Goals include working to advocate for the successful education of children of all ability levels, participate in formulating a vision for the future of special education in St. Louis County; support parents in attaining equitable, appropriate services, information, assistive technology and other resources for children with disabilities; communicating with parents, educators, and the general public concerning what the education needs and rights of children with disabilities are and what resources are available to them in St. Louis County; and collaborate with general and special educators on the effective education of our children.

The Ritenour School District has selected Carrie Culver as the district Diamond Circle Teacher of the Year and Tammy Thousand as the Diamond Circle Employee of the Year. The district also named eight other teachers as Diamond Circle recipients for their respective schools. Diamond Circle Awards are given to teachers and staff that best exemplify the district's commitment to quality education and service. Awardees are chosen each year by colleagues at their schools.

Students at Ritenour Middle School soaked up the sun, had the opportunity to see some amazing classic automobiles and - most importantly - enjoy a lunch from Chuck-A-Burger Drive-In. Eighth-graders in teacher Ken Crowder's homeroom class took part in a tradition he started at the school, having Chuck-A-Burgers delivered to his class in celebration of another wonderful school year.

The Ritenour School District is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Chris Kilbride as principal of Buder Elementary School effective July 1, 2007.

Students at Wyland Elementary School had the opportunity to do research about different countries, play games and learn more about cultures throughout the world during "International Week." The series of events took place from May 7-11.

Summertime for most kids means hot days, no school and a lot of free time. With summer right around the corner, kids are going to be spending a lot more time at home - and for many, much more time using the Internet. Do you know what Web sites they are visiting? Are they safe?

To say that Hoech Middle School science teacher Julie LaConte was having a good year would be a total understatement. In fact, LaConte's school year would be best described using terms like "incredible," "outstanding" or "award-winning."

Administrators at Ritenour High School made a deal with students taking the Missouri Assessment Program (MAP) test - and on Friday, April 20, they had to pay the price. Four assistant principals, along with the director of activities and director of athletics agreed to shave their heads in a "Mohawk style" if students achieved a 98 percent or higher attendance rate for two days of testing. Sophomores and juniors taking the test responded by earning a 98.17 percent attendance rate the first day and 99.5 percent the second.

The school year is winding down and students in the Ritenour School District have been busy during the past few weeks - receiving awards and honors at both the state and national level. Listed below are some of the highlights:

The Ritenour School District earned three awards from the Missouri School Public Relations Association (MOSPRA) at its spring meeting in Lake Ozark, Mo.

The Ritenour Board of Education selected a new President and Vice President at its April meeting.

Students at Marion Elementary School raised nearly $900 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society during its "Pennies for Patients" fundraiser. Students in grades kindergarten though five collected pennies, nickels, dimes and quarters for three weeks in March. Students were in charge of collecting, counting and recording their class amounts. The grand total was $878.29.

Proposition R, Ritenour's $32 million bond issue, received a narrow majority of support from district voters during the April 3 election, but unfortunately fell short of the required margin. While the majority of voters, 50.95 percent, voted in favor of Prop R, it wasn't enough to reach the super majority of 57.15 percent needed for the measure to pass.

Paintings, drawings, watercolors, ceramics and more were on display in the North Gymnasium at Ritenour High School as the district hosted its Student Art Show.

St. Louis County Department of Revenue announced it would soon send property tax reassessment notices to residents. Preliminary information from the County indicates most Ritenour residents will see an increase in the value of their real estate property. An increase in your property value is good news for you and for the community as this is a strong indicator of housing and neighborhood improvement and growth.

Students at Marion Elementary School received an all-encompassing look at how food is grown, packaged, sold and even digested through an exhibit called Food Power. The traveling exhibit visited the school recently and taught students in grades kindergarten through five about the importance of healthy food choices and regular physical activity.

Students at Ritenour's Early Childhood Center were featured on KSDK-TV (Channel 5 in St. Louis) doing the 5-1 salute at the end of the five, six and 10 p.m. newscasts on Thursday, March 15. KSDK-TV features a different school in the St. Louis area every day at the end of their newscasts.

For the 15th consecutive year, Ritenour Middle School hosted its bookmark design contest. Students submitted more than 100 original designs into this year's competition. Fifteen winners were chosen. The contest was open to all students at the school.

Paintings, drawings, watercolors, ceramics and more will be on display at the annual Ritenour School District Art Show on Thursday, March 15 at Ritenour High School. Artwork will be on display from 4-8 p.m. in the school's North Gymnasium.

Heroes like Jesse Owens, Nellie Bly, Booker T. Washington, Helen Keller and Albert Einstein were celebrated at Iveland Elementary School's fifth-grade musical. The program, titled "Heroes All," took place in the school's gymnasium on March 8.

The fourth annual charity basketball game between teachers and staff from Hoech Middle School and St. Ann Police Department raised nearly $300.

Elementary students throughout the Ritenour School District celebrated the late Dr. Seuss's birthday on Friday, March 2, along with millions of children throughout the country.

Students at Buder and Kratz Elementary Schools were jumping rope - and supporting a great cause - at their schools during the past few weeks. They hosted "Jump Rope for Heart" to help raise money for the American Heart Association (AHA).

New drawings of the proposed Ritenour Early Childhood Center and the Educational Center for the Arts have been posted on www.RSDPropR.com. The sketches feature a 3-D view of both buildings. Visit the Floor Plans page.

Photo Gallery

You could feel the anticipation build in the halls at Buder Elementary school on Tuesday afternoon. Students took a break from their studies and gathered in the hall to watch a very special parade celebrating the Chinese New Year.

Step into the library at Marvin Elementary and you will be taken back in time - to the 1930s. Take a look around and you will see exhibits on the dust bowl, the great depression, the building of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and the advent of talking movies. Did you know that macaroni and cheese and chocolate chip cookies were both introduced in the 1930s?

The cities of St. Ann and St. John offer free tax help for senior citizens. Residents of St. Ann who are 62 and older can make appointments by calling the St. Ann Senior Office at (314) 429-4545. Appointments are available on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

You have probably heard this before - "If I register to vote I will get put on a list to be called for jury duty." But the fact is, according to the St. Louis County Municipal Court, if you have a driver's license, you are already on the list for potential jurors. The court draws names from many sources, including the Department of Motor Vehicles. An individual is just as likely to be called for jury duty because of possessing a driver's license than because of registering to vote. Being on both lists does not increase your chances for being called because they "merge" the list into one for the random selection of jurors. For more information about jury selection in St. Louis County, call (314) 615-8029 or visit www.co.st-louis.mo.us/circuitcourt/cebjuryselection.html.

You can register to vote at any Ritenour school, any St. Louis County library, at motor vehicle registration offices, or at the St. Louis County Board of Election office located at 12 Sunnen Drive in Brentwood. To register to vote in the April 3, 2007 election, you must be a U.S. citizen, 18 years of age and a resident of St. Louis County. The last day to register for the April 3 election is March 7, 2007. For more information on registering to vote, call St. Louis County Board of Elections at (314) 615-1822 or visit www.co.st-louis.mo.us/Elections/.

Eight Ritenour high school students were selected to participate in the E. Desmond Lee Orchestra Program. The orchestra gives students the opportunity to perform at the Touhill Performing Arts Center at the University of Missouri-St. Louis with students from other districts in the St. Louis area. The concert takes place at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 6.

Students and staff at Wyland Elementary School raised nearly $4,000 for the American Heart Association through its "Hoops for Heart" fundraiser.

The Ritenour School District has launched a new Web site - www.RSDPropR.com - to provide details about Proposition R, a $32 million bond issue on the April 3, 2007 ballot. Funds from Prop R would be used to build an Educational Center for the Arts at Ritenour High School and a new Early Childhood Center. The proposal also includes plans for classroom renovations at the high school and land acquisition.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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. Missouri laws require all children to have up-to-date immunizations prior to the first day of school.

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.

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

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

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Meet AL. He is the face of Atomic Learning.

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.

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?

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 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.

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:

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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’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.”

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 Ritenour Alumni Association will host its 11th annual golf tournament Sunday, Oct. 1 at Eagle Springs Golf Course.

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.

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 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 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.

“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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Ritenour School District elementary schools are now accepting kindergarten registrations for the 2007-2008 school year. Both full-day and half-day kindergarten classes are available. Children must be 5 years of age on or before July 31, 2007, to enter kindergarten in August.