A Missouri Gold Star School

McCluer North High School has achieved Gold Star status! After an extensive application process, McCluer North was named a Missouri Gold Star School and was selected to compete for the U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon Award.

The Gold Star and Blue Ribbon programs recognize schools that show significant improvement in student academic performance. Test scores, innovative instructional programs, effective leadership, and parent involvement are all factors considered by the selection committee.

The Gold Star School Award application process gave McCluer North staff, parents and community members an opportunity to reflect on their accomplishments. Their consistent efforts for improvement throughout the 29-year history of the school make the Gold Star a center stone in their crown of achievements.

Comprehensive Curriculum
Key to McCluer North's mission is a comprehensive curriculum tied to District and state performance standards that help every student become a successful learner and a responsible, productive citizen. Staff members at McCluer North help all students become academically successful through a curriculum that has a strong emphasis on basic skills development and an extensive array of advanced courses.

Beginning level courses in English and social studies require students to complete very challenging reading and composition assignments. In addition, every freshman is poised to complete a four-year sequence in science and math beginning with Algebra or Geometry and Biology. Students also may take math, science, English, social studies, music, drama and foreign language courses for college credit from the University of Missouri St. Louis or Missouri Baptist College. Tech prep articulation agreements with St. Louis Community College and Ranken Technical College allow students to earn both high school and college credit in the Business and Family and Consumer Sciences departments.

Advisement
McCluer North backs its strong academic program with a nationally recognized student advisement program that provides sustained and caring relationships between students and teachers. Under the Advisement Program each student is assigned to a faculty member who serves as a mentor for their entire high school experience. All advisors meet with students individually or in small groups for two hours each week.

Community Learning Program
The McCluer North Community Learning Program has a 25-year history of providing students with hands-on career exploration opportunities. This school-business partnership has been recognized with a 1999 Best Practice Award from the state. It provides valuable learning situations for students, career insights and a stepping stone to the future.

Extracurricular Activities
A strong tradition of extracurricular activities is a trademark at McCluer North where students can participate in visual and performing arts, athletics, clubs and organizations, and academic competitions. Research confirms that students who are involved in extracurricular activities are more successful in school. Nearly half of the student body is involved in at least one extracurricular activity, and many of those students participate in multiple programs.