During a recent government meeting, board members discussed their participation in the World Cafe event, which focused on enhancing community engagement strategies. Unlike traditional town halls, the World Cafe format encourages participants to rotate between tables, fostering conversations among diverse groups and perspectives. This innovative approach was praised for its effectiveness in promoting dialogue.

Board member Jenny Dodd received commendation for her leadership during a refresher session, where she educated attendees on critical issues, including child sexual abuse awareness. Her efforts were recognized as instrumental in preparing board members to address sensitive topics.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted insights from a session on after-school programs led by Republic R-3, a district larger than Webster Groves. The discussion emphasized the success of their newly established after-school initiative, which resonated positively with Webster Groves representatives. They noted that while Republic R-3's program had higher costs, it reinforced their commitment to maintaining affordable options for local families. The session also introduced the Missouri After School Network, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting after-school initiatives with resources and guidance.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's dedication to improving community engagement and after-school programming, reflecting a proactive approach to addressing the needs of their constituents.