Kirkwood School District expands Parent as Teachers program and staff of color recruitment initiatives

The Kirkwood School District Board of Education made significant strides in enhancing educational opportunities during their work session on August 25, 2025. A key highlight was the successful expansion of the "Parents as Teachers" program, led by Penny Chastain, which has effectively eliminated the waitlist for families seeking early childhood education resources. This initiative allows parents to connect with educators from pregnancy through kindergarten, providing essential developmental screenings and support.

The board also emphasized its commitment to diversity and inclusion within the district. Efforts to recruit and retain staff of color were discussed, with the introduction of building liaisons aimed at fostering relationships and a sense of belonging among these staff members. The district is focusing on storytelling as a means to enhance understanding and support for staff of color, creating a narrative that guides future improvements.

Additionally, the board is implementing community opportunities for racial allyship, encouraging a journey from being allies to accomplices in creating equitable opportunities for all students. This multi-step approach aims to engage the community in meaningful discussions about racial equity.

The meeting also touched on the importance of restorative practices in the district. While participation in training is currently optional, board members expressed the need for establishing clear expectations for staff to ensure these practices are consistently applied in the classroom.

Overall, the Kirkwood School District is making notable progress in expanding educational access and fostering an inclusive environment, with plans for continued community engagement and staff development. These initiatives are expected to enhance the educational experience for all students and strengthen the district's commitment to equity and inclusion.