Saint Louis Public Schools

press release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                             Contact: Julie Linder

August 13, 2012                                                                                                                    (314) 345-2367

SLPS Reports First Day Attendance

Attendance increased by almost 2,000 students from previous year

ST. LOUIS, MO. August 13, 2012 – Today marked the first day of the 2012-2013 school year for kindergarten through 12th grade students in the St. Louis Public School District.  A total of 20,283 students attended classes today, marking an increase of 10.25% over the previous year’s first day attendance of 18,397. 

“The first day of school went very well. I am pleased to see our attendance rate increase for the first time in recent memory.  In fact, we had many students enroll today and we will continue to enroll students each and every day.  The successes today are a testament to the hard work of our students, faculty, and staff,” said Dr. Kelvin Adams, Superintendent of Schools.

Today also marked the first day of classes for the Academy of Environmental Sciences & Mathematics Elementary and Middle Schools as well as the College Preparatory High School at Madison.  These three schools are newly opened to address the student needs of those who were affected by the closures of six Imagine Charter Schools in the city of St. Louis.  Below is the enrollment and first day attendance at these sites:

In addition, the St. Louis Public School District is pleased to announce the expansion of the International Welcome School to include grades 9-12. Established in 2009 as a kindergarten through 8^th grade school, the International Welcome School (IWS) creates a safe and nurturing school environment for immigrant students with limited English and low formal education, many war refugees, and some struggling with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. 

IWS students receive accelerated English training, an introduction to the US culture and school system, and exposure to educational expectations and opportunities. English Language Learner (ELL) teachers, Counselors, Social Workers and program Instructional Coordinators assist and monitor students’ in the following areas: listening, speaking, reading, writing, math, science and social studies, and degree of self confidence and ability to adjust, before transitioning students into a regular classroom environment.

The first day of classes for SLPS students in preschool will be Monday, August 20. For more information, please contact the Office of Public Information (314) 345-2367.

# # #