Superintendent's Note: Leaving the district in better condition than I found it
Posted on 06/22/2023
Where did the school year go? It’s hard to believe the year is over, especially since it is my last at Mehlville School District. I did not start the year with any plans of leaving, but opportunities do not always present themselves as you expect. As I reflect on my eight years in Mehlville, I have to thank everyone for the trust and confidence they’ve placed in me. Together, we have accomplished much.
I have approached my time in Mehlville with a continuous improvement mindset. My desire is, and has been, to leave the district in better condition than it was when I arrived. With the Board’s support, we were able to open MOSAIC Elementary School, middle school academies, and an early college program for students. We joined St. Louis Centers for Advanced Professional Studies (STL CAPS) and created MyPath to give students more opportunities to explore career paths. The district was selected to be part of the League of Innovative Schools and was named a Learning 2025 Lighthouse District.
The community has supported the district at the ballot box with the passage of four propositions: Prop R to restore funding cut from the budget; Prop A, a tax transfer to complete some roofing projects over 10 years; Prop S, a zero tax increase bond issue to improve school safety and maintain and repair critical infrastructure; and most recently Prop E to provide employees with competitive salaries. Thank you for supporting your schools at the polls.
Mehlville School District has a bright future, and there is so much still to achieve. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to serve the Mehlville School District.
We are blessed to have amazing people serving our students each and every day. After my departure, I know they will continue to do terrific work. I wish Dr. Jeff Haug the best as he assumes the superintendency on July 1. - Dr. Chris Gaines, Superintendent