History

John J. Pershing Elementary School 

We believe that every child is entitled to a high-quality education, and our schoolwide commitment is to provide all students with the knowledge and tools to prepare for college and career. Our passionate teachers take advantage of every minute in the instructional day. Classrooms feature inquiry-based learning with teachers asking high-level questions and students responding in writing, discussion with peers, or collaborating on projects. Teachers scaffold students’ learning, checking for understanding and provide small group instruction, tutoring and one-on-one attention. Teacher support, conferences with parents, counseling, and the services of the district’s Youth and Family Centers and Psychological Services address students’ social-emotional needs. 

Who was John J. Pershing?

 1860-1948

John J. Pershing was born in Laclede, Missouri on September 13, 1860.  In 1886, he became a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in New York where he later served as instructor of tactics.  He served in the military extensively through the years participating in the Native American War, Spanish American War and in the Philippines.  In 1917, Pershing was selected by Pres. Woodrow Wilson to command American troops known as the American Expeditionary Force in Europe during World War I.  It was considered a remarkable achievement.  For his leadership, in 1919 John J. Peshing was given a title no other officer held.  He was appointed general of the armies of the United States.  Pershing went on to serve as chief of staff from 1921 to 1924.  My Experience in the World War was his published memoir in 1931 which won a Pulitzer prize. 

Source:  Encyclopaedia Britannica