Every Athlete, Every Ability: Special Olympics in Action
tpt march
At Valley Park High School, the Leadership program has grown and evolved over the years. Today, leadership is not just something students talk about. It is something they actively practice every day.  Students in the class regularly step outside the high school building to lead projects and build connections across our One Campus. Throughout the year, leadership students organize and support a wide range of activities that bring energy and encouragement to younger learners.  Some of these initiatives include the Habit the Hawk event with Elementary Specialist Ms. Kulick, helping with the 1 Million Books celebration for kindergarten through second grade and cheering on students during the Hawk Run organized by Coach Menley. Leadership students also help create positive moments through events like High-Five Day with Dr. Burd and the beloved Pumpkin Project, which involves support from teachers across the elementary school.  Students also share their own interests and creativity with younger learners through activities like Hobby Lessons with Mrs. Doerr and Ms. Fox, decorating classrooms during Deck the Desk with the second grade team and celebrating literacy during Read Across America with elementary teachers. They also assist with reading initiatives like If You Give a Kid a Book with first grade and help organize fun spirit events like Cereal Day with Ms. Wirick.  Leadership teacher Gerrie Robards believes these experiences help students understand that leadership is something anyone can grow into.  “Leadership isn’t something reserved for a few students, it’s something every student can learn,” Robards said. “Our program helps students discover their voice, develop their strengths, and use those abilities to make a lasting impact in our school, our community, and beyond.”  For Leadership Intern Kaylie Kearns, the program has made a lasting impact. After completing Leadership I and II, Kaylie now serves in the program’s third level as an intern, helping guide younger students while continuing to grow her own leadership skills.  “Leadership has shaped me into the person I am today,” said Kearns. “It has helped me understand what it truly means to lead with heart and service. I know that the lessons I have learned through this program will stay with me long after I leave VP.”  Through these experiences, Valley Park students are learning that leadership is about service, connection and making a positive impact on others. It is one more example of Limitless Learning in action across our One Community.
Learning, Leadership and Legacy: Black History Month Across Valley Park School District
Valley Park School District Early Childhood Education
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I am honored to nominate Aubrea Grundstad, a 3rd grade teacher at Valley Park Elementary, for her extraordinary dedication to her students and her exceptional impact on their growth, confidence, and love of learning.  Ms. Grundstad always puts her students’ needs first. She creates a classroom environment that is caring, respectful, and supportive, while also holding high expectations and believing deeply in every child’s ability to succeed. She doesn’t just teach to a curriculum; she teaches to the child in front of her. Each student is seen, valued, and encouraged for their individual strengths, while also being guided thoughtfully in areas where growth is needed.  What sets Ms. Grundstad apart is her deep understanding that every student learns differently. She proactively adjusts her approach to meet a wide range of learning styles, abilities, and needs, ensuring that no child is left behind and every child has the opportunity to thrive. She is attentive, responsive, and intentional about providing the support each student needs to do their absolute best.  Ms. Grundstad is also committed to professional excellence. She stays informed about current learning trends and best practices, continually refining her teaching so she can connect with her students in the most effective and meaningful ways. Her classroom is a place where students feel safe to take risks, grow, and believe in themselves.  Because of Ms. Grundstad’s dedication, students are not only learning academically, but also gaining confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging. Valley Park Elementary is incredibly fortunate to have such a compassionate, skilled, and committed educator shaping the lives of its students.
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beyond the classroom robert keough
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From Atoms to Earth: Why 7th Grade Science Matters
Beyond the Classroom valley park school district teacher pd
St. louis county youth apprenticeships
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TPT January 2026
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Choir and Band
beyond the classroom
teacher proud tuesday Dr. Overman