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Dr. Rick Burns

Dr. Rick Burns, former associate principal of Kirkwood High School, passed away on Saturday, January 7, 2012, at St. Louis University Hospital. He was 69 years old.

Dr. Burns joined the KHS staff as an assistant principal in 1979 and served a total of 23 years at the high school. He was raised in Hoboken, New Jersey, as one of six children. After his high school years, his family moved to St. Louis. He earned his undergraduate degree from Southeast Missouri State, his master's degree from University of Missouri at St. Louis, and his doctorate from St. Louis University. Dr. Burns began his career in education as a teacher at Beaumont High School and later moved to University City High School before coming to Kirkwood.

After his retirement in 2002, Dr. Burns continued to mentor, tutor, and teach. He was an adjunct faculty member at several universities in the St. Louis area. Franklin McCallie, former KHS principal and close friend and colleague, refers to Dr. Burns as "one of the most caring, creative, and effective educators I have ever known."

It was Dr. Burns' wish to be an organ donor. Upon his passing, his liver was donated so that another person might live. Dr. Burns is survived by his wife, Debbie, and two sons, Richard, KHS '97 and Jesse, KHS '00.

Family and friends are planning a "Celebration of the Life of Dr. Rick Burns" to be held this coming Saturday, January 14, 2012, in the Keating Theatre, Kirkwood High School. Doors will open at 10:15 a.m. in the Walker Commons for friends to mingle and share memories of Dr. Burns. Family members will be available in the Walker Commons after the ceremony to greet those who loved and admired Rick Burns.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations go to the Rick Burns Fund, which supports Kirkwood High School students. Checks should be made out to Kirkwood School District, memo line: Rick Burns Fund, Community Relations Office, 11289 Manchester Road, Kirkwood, 63122. All donations are tax-deductible.

Kirkwood School District Hosts First Alumni Hall of Fame on Sept. 25

August 04, 2010

The Kirkwood School District will host a reception and induction ceremony for its first Alumni Hall of Fame on Saturday, Sept. 25, at 7 p.m. in the Keating Theatre of Kirkwood High School, 801 W. Essex Ave. The district will induct 23 honorees into the Hall of Fame, which recognizes men and women who have achieved success and who serve as appropriate role models for Kirkwood School District students. The inductees include entrepreneurs, musicians, a member of the Tuskegee Airmen, an opera singer, an Academy Award winner, a Golden Globe Award winner, educators, aeronautical engineers, magistrates, and civic leaders. Click HERE for more information.

Dedication of Pioneer Circle Scheduled for September 2 at 2 p.m.

Dave Holley, KHS principal and Jim Velten, director of development discuss the final plans and completion of the Pioneer Circle. The funds for this project were privately funded by alumni, class reunions, graduating classes and friends.

The sculpture was designed and constructed by local artist Brother Mel Meyer. Brother Mel has work at several local sites and as far away as Toronto and Miami. He planned the piece and cut the letters from stainless steel, then welded the sections together. The sculpture was then painted the perfect Kirkwood red. His use of both curved and straight sections adds rhythm to the composition of the letters and ensures stability of the piece which is always important in public work.

Located in the center of the high school campus the Pioneer Circle will serve as a place for students and community members to gather for shared conversation or quiet reflection.

The dedication ceremony will take place at 2 p.m. on September 2, 2010. The community is invited to attend.