Head of School, Taylor Clement and Director of Admissions, Stacy Engel discuss the end of the year activities, 6th grade speeches, graduation and other highlights from the 2023-2024 school year.

Making Christian education accessible to families is our passion at Kirk Day School and the Herzog Foundation. In this episode, Taylor Clement and Ragan Taylor interview Herzog Foundation's Development Coordinator, Mayela Esser about the history and mission of the Herzog Foundation. 

This year, Kirk Day School has hired a new Director of Admissions. In this episode, Taylor Clement and Ragan Taylor interview Stacy Engel about her history at KDS and what she is excited about in her new position.

This summer, KDS parents were asked to share their feedback about different aspects of the school. The goal of this survey was to allow space for feedback about goals to work toward or areas that are going well. 

In this episode, Taylor Clement and Ragan Taylor discuss the results and respond to questions parents have. 

Why are some teachers leaving Kirk Day School? 

What is staff working on over the summer? 

What updates are happening before the new school year? 

In this episode, Taylor Clement and Ragan Taylor answer all of these questions and more. 

Kirk Day School references the Strategic Plan often. But what is the Strategic Plan? Why is it important? And how does it impact our KDS community? In this episode, Taylor Clement, Rebecca Kapphahn, and Jacob White unpack Kirk Day School’s Strategic Plan.

Mr. Taylor Clement, Head of School

It may be an uncomfortable conversation but it's an important one, too. In this episode, Mr. Clement and School Nurse, Mrs. Matthews discuss God's view of our bodies, and how to navigate that conversation with your kids.

Mr. Clement interviews Head of Student Life, Mrs. Diane Abeln, about her passion for nurturing students' hearts through discipleship.  She hopes to help shepherd students towards Christ-like behavior by encouraging them to reflect upon their behavior and grow in the knowledge of themselves while demonstrating empathy for others. Mr. Clement points out that, “The goal of any discipline or conflict at Kirk Day School is to restore relationships and if necessary transform hearts.”  

Mrs. Abeln shares how she utilizes the Peacemakers program, prayer, scripture, and open heartfelt conversations as she guides students through the resolution process. She explains, “When I’m disciplining or discipling a child, I’m looking at them as an image bearer of our great king. I want them to learn, grow, and enjoy the beauty of the way that God has prepared for them.” While conflict is not easy, Mrs. Abeln believes devoting time, energy, and passion to walking with children through this restoration process is so very important.

St. Louis Cardinals First Baseman and KDS Dad Paul Goldschmidt is an avid reader and lover of books. In honor of the Book Fair happening at school this week, Paul sits down with Mr. Clement and Mrs. Rolf to talk about his favorite genres, authors, and books he recommends

In this week’s podcast, Mr. Clement and Mrs. Massey touch on a variety of topics including Mrs. Massey's upcoming departure and Kirk Day School's conflict resolution program (including Peacemakers by Ken Sande). This is a particularly helpful podcast for those interested in learning more about how KDS partners with families to nurture the hearts of students.

Article from Podcast: www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/