New Pattonville High School Principal Talks About The First Days Of The School Year

students welcomed the 2011-12 school year with a few changes—from a football stadium under construction to a new principal to oversee the building.

Principal Joe Dobrinic said his first week at Pattonville was fantastic.

“It was an incredibly smooth week,” he said.

Dobrinic came to Pattonville after having served as Hazelwood West’s principal for three years.

He said Hazelwood West and Pattonville’s differences are not stark, however, Pattonville has an overwhelming commitment to student learning. He said staff really gets to know the students and are able to help them out.

One thing Pattonville High has had to deal with in the new school year is the new stadium’s construction. Dobrinic said the construction isn’t causing many issues for students, aside from missing home games.

Coach Steve Smith has put a great deal of emphasis on controlling the things the team can control, he said.

Students and teachers alike are getting back into the swing of the school year at Pattonville. Dobrinic said getting back into a routine can be hard for kids. Getting enough sleep, eating three meals each day and adjusting to the workload can be tough, he said.