Crestwood Elementary School is one of five elementary schools in the Lindbergh School District, a 2008 National District of Character. Crestwood serves a diverse population, with 15 different languages spoken at home and the highest poverty level in the district. Despite the many challenges of meeting the needs of a diverse population, Crestwood has the highest student achievement among the district’s elementary schools, recently receiving the Missouri Gold Star Award and the National Blue Ribbon Award. Character education, which has been in place at Crestwood since 1989, has evolved into a “way of life,” according to Dr. Jim Simpson, the district superintendent. This is a warm and welcoming school, with a strong camaraderie among staff, students, and parents. Principal Scott Taylor describes his staff as “wonderful, caring, loving, and great teachers who have high expectations for all students.” Because of recent redistricting, Crestwood has gained about 150 students in 2011–12. The school’s touchstone, “I Belong, You Belong, We Belong,” unifies the community.
Signature Practices
Lesson Plan: How Many Are Homeless?
This lesson integrates objectives in math and social studies. Fifth and second grade buddies learn about the number of homeless people in the surrounding community and the possible hardships they face. These students are empowered through knowledge to explore ways they can help the homeless in the community.
Promising Practice: Buddies... You've Got Mail!
Buddy Mail is a system involving a monthly exchange of letters in a note between the younger students and their older buddies. Also, every month the notebook goes home for families to put in their contributions. For example, the families share family traditions and tell something of themselves.
Promising Practice: Crestwood Character at Play
A school uses unstructured play time as an opportunitiy to teach good character and cooperation.
Contact Information
Ms. Jan LiebelBuilding Coordinator for Character Education
1020 S. Sappington Road Crestwood, MO 63126
Phone: 314-729-2400 x. 3305
Email: jliebel@lindberghschool.ws
Website: www.lindberghschools.ws