Saint Louis Community Empowerment Foundation and the City of St. Louis Salutes Academic Achievers 2011

NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release                                                                                                                    

Contact: C. Ottley (314) 766-1919c

St. LouisCommunity Empowerment Foundation and City of St. Louis

Salute Academic Achievers

The St. Louis Community Empowerment Foundation (STLCEF) supports education as part of its mission. Built upon that commitment, they have created a series of annual activities designed to raise each student’s level of motivation, understanding, and commitment to learn and complete their education. For over a decade, STLCEF creates innovative and educationally inspiring activities to reinforce students to excel. According to Michael McMillan, Board Chairman, "grades alone are not good enough. It is important for students to have good attendance and good behavior that is demonstrated by their respect toward others. Our commitment extends from elementary school through college. On each level we include the family, teachers and the community leaders who impact the quality of life in the neighborhoods where the students live."

Academic Achievement Programs were held in May and June for students at six (6) different St. Louis Public Schools: Dunbar, Earl Nance and Woerner Elementary Schools; L’Overture Middle School; and Vashon High School and Metro Academic and Classical High School. Approximately 500 students are impacted at the schools and an additional 8,000 at community events during the course of the year.

Each achiever received an honor medallion and award certificates and a gift bag with educational incentive gifts and a variety of nutritional snacks. Teachers and parents are encouraged to participate and are recognized for the inspiration they provide on a routine basis.

A host of companies contribute products. They include Ameren Missouri, Monsanto, Pappa John's Pizza, Pepsi, NAIER and DAD’s Cookies.

Carla Cunigan, Principal at Dunbar Elementary Schools, says, “The students look forward to these annual events and getting a chance to talk to Mr. McMillan. He never misses an event and spends time interacting with them. The teachers use the opportunity to attend the events as an incentive to motivate the students to meet their grade, attendance and behavior goals. It works!”

St. Louis Community Empowerment Foundation – 3030 Locust StreetSaint Louis, Missouri63103

(314) 371-8585 FAX: (314) 371-8589 – Email: cv.vjvl@sbcglobal.net  – Website: www.stlcef.org