I remember way back when we actually had face to face conversations with one another or at least we called one another. Now we communicate via email, text and no one can forget about social media. These modern conveniences are great. How amazing is it that we can share important moments in our lives with friends and families who we may not see daily?

However, these conveniences can also sometimes cause problems. I know I am constantly asking myself how to keep my daughter safe while online. I am very well aware that she is way more tech savvy than I am and if she desires she has ways to hide what she is doing on social media. While our children may feel as if we are infringing on their privacy, it is our responsibility to help them safely navigate their way in this digital world. There is a false sense of confidence when we are communicating behind a screen. We need to have conversations with our children about appropriate ways to handle conflicts. While it may seem like these conversations fall on deaf ears, your children are actually listening and this is just another way we show them how much we love them.

As adults, we can also lead by example as children are always observing the adults in their lives. Staff models how to appropriately use social media through posts that celebrate successes and they also send reminders about academics. You can show them the positive ways you interact with social media at home as well. If we work together to send a unified message regarding social media I do believe we can make a lasting impact in our children’s experiences. I welcome any further conversation you would like to have regarding this topic.

My sincerest thanks to those who have and continue to support and partner with us so that we can provide the best education for your children. I hope each of you have a wonderful week and please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns or questions.

Kindly,

Kim

314.645.9600 (607)~kwright@premiercharterschool.org

Meet Your Middle School Counselors!

Hi! I’m Kalyn Abel, and I am your 6th grade school counselor at PCS! I love being your school counselor and know that I have the best job in the world! I graduated with my BA from Murray State and earned my Masters of School Counseling from Missouri Baptist University. Some fun facts about me are that I love all foods and enjoy cooking and baking! I like exploring STL and traveling to new places. On weekends I can be found hiking with my dog or spending time with our newborn son. I look forward to getting to know our next middle school 6th graders this school year! You can reach me at kabel@premiercharterschool.org or ext. 412.

Hi, I’m Morgan Fuemmeler (Ms.F) and I serve as the 7th grade counselor. I have been working in education for 8 years and have been at PCS since 2020. I believe mental health is at the foundation of learning and enjoy supporting students by serving as someone they can trust and confide in. Outside of school, I enjoy reading, hiking, and spending time with my family. I’m excited for the new school year and look forward to getting to know all our students! You can reach me at mfuemmeler@premiercharterschool.org or ext. 427

Hi, I’m Erin Russell, and I am your 8th grade counselor at PCS! I began teaching at PCS in 2016 as an ELA teacher for 8th and 6th grades. I earned my BA in English Language Arts from Eastern Illinois University with a minor in Middle Level Education. Later, I earned my Master’s of School Counseling at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, and have been working as one of the middle school counselors for the past two years! I love working with students to help them navigate middle school, reach their goals, and find the high school that is the right fit for them! Outside of school, you can find me trying out a new recipe or tackling a DIY house project with my husband and our two dogs. I am so excited for the 22-23 school year at PCS! You can reach me at erussell@premiercharterschool.org and ext. 409.

There is a new government benefit to help families afford internet service. The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), provides eligible households with a discount on internet services and devices. You qualify if you (or someone in your household) participates in at least one of these programs: