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News & Events
| Paseo Academy to Hold Open Auditions July 24 & All August | Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts will hold auditions 3 to 5 p.m. Thursday, July 24, 2008, and throughout August by appointment. Prospective students will be able to audition in each arts genre: theater/technical theater, vocal/instrumental music, dance, visual arts, and creative writing.
· Thursday, July 24, 2008, 3-5 p.m.
· August – Monday through Friday – call for appointment
Audition packets are available at the Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts (4747 Flora, Kansas City, MO, 64110) and at the Kansas City, Missouri School District Admissions Office (Board of Education Building, 1211 McGee, Kansas City, MO 64106).
The Paseo Fine Arts Exhibition Troupe is also available for a 45-minute lecture/demonstration to 8th grade classes. For more information about the Troupe or audition requirements, call (816) 418-2275. | 7/23/2008 | | District Will Continue to Honor Ruling in Independence Case |
With the ruling on the ownership status of seven Independence school buildings issued, the Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) will continue to proactively cooperate and honor the ruling issued by a state arbitration board regarding the Independence boundary change.
Some might choose to see today’s decision as a defeat for the Kansas City, Missouri School District. However, it must be noted that like the Independence School District, the Kansas City, Missouri School District was a defendant in the litigation brought by the non-profit School District of Kansas City, Missouri Building Corp. Today’s decision brings clarity to the ownership debate and allows all parties to move forward in a cooperative and respectful manner.
Further, the judge’s decision upholds the ruling brought by the arbitration board, a ruling KCMSD has followed without hesitation. With this latest court ruling, it is our hope to move forward and begin preparing for a productive 2008-2009 school year.
The focus may once again be placed on job No. 1 – educating students. | 7/23/2008 | | Institute gives parents a boost towards college |
If you are a parent looking to further your education, the Parent Power Institute (PPI) is the program for you.
The Parent Power Institute is a unique Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) program that offers parents of students attending the KCMSD an opportunity to prepare for a successful college experience through a mix of preparatory classes, life skills sessions and rigorous curriculum. The unique program is a precursor to the Parents to College program, which helps adults enroll in a college or university.
"In order to improve the student's educational levels, parents must be given opportunities to improve their educational and economic status,” said Cynthia Wheeler-Linden, KCMSD Chief Communications Officer.
In the coming weeks, the KCMSD Adult Basic Education department will host a series of informational forums for parents seeking to take advantage of this opportunity. The forum will provide parents with a program overview, enrollment information, a question and answer session, and skills assessment in math and English needed to enter the institute.
The innovative Parent Power Institute prepares adults for college by offering a mix of preparatory classes, life skills sessions and rigorous curriculum. Participants will develop mastery in writing skills, mathematics and computers equivalent to a college freshman. Also participants will receive a certificate of completion and be eligible to take part in the District’s Parents to College program.
The forums will be:
§ Tuesday, July 29 - 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Manual Career and Technical Center, 1215 E. Truman Road, Kansas City, MO 64106
§ Tuesday, July 29 – 6 to 9 p.m. at Manual Career and Technical Center, 1215 E. Truman Road, Kansas City, MO 64106
§ Saturday, Aug. 9 - 2 to 4 p.m. at the Adult Basic Education Center, 2121 Charlotte, Kansas City, MO 64108
The Parent Power Institute is open to parents who have children enrolled in the Kansas City, Missouri School District, have a high school diploma or GED, are willing to sacrifice a minimum of 6 to 12 hours of academic classes per week, and sign a participation agreement. Assistance with financial aid applications, child care and transportation is offered.
Call the Adult Basic Education office at (816) 418-8202 or the Parent Resource Center at (816) 418-8615 to reserve your space. | 7/22/2008 | | Finishing the race: District honors summer graduates | Sixteen Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) seniors were honored Wednesday, July 23, 2008, for demonstrating perseverance and dedication.
Seniors from throughout the District received their high school diplomas during summer graduation exercises before family, friends and community members. The group used the summer school session to achieve state and local requirements for graduation. The theme of the commencement was “Raising the bar to excellence.”
The keynote speaker for the event was David McGruder, a Morehouse College student whose oratory credits include speeches at Yale University and Georgetown University. McGruder said the students might have taken longer than expected to achieve their goal, but the important thing is they finished.
“The world is full of great starters but very few are great finishers. We’re here to celebrate the beauty of finishing,” McGruder said. “This is only the beginning. Don't let this be the end.”
KCMSD Board of Directors members Airick Leonard West, Duane Kelly and Helen Ragsdale were in attendance.
The participating graduates, with high schools, include:
§ Jamonica Allen, Central High School
§ Michael Ashley, Central High School
§ Ericka Cook, Southeast High School
§ Todd Edwin, Central High School
§ LaShonda Fowler, Central High School
§ Jasmine Hobley, Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts
§ Michael Holmes, Central High School
§ Allen Martineau, Van Horn High School
§ Cameron McMichael, Central High School
§ Tommie Miler, Central High School
§ Michael Moore, Central High School
§ Minh Pham, Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts
§ Jessica Rieck, Central High School
§ Lynn Truong, Northeast High School
§ Olivia Valerio, Lincoln College Preparatory Academy
§ Wayne Young, Westport High School
| 7/23/2008 | | Paseo Academy Students to Host Summer School Grand Finale Performances | The Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts Summer Camp will bring down the curtain on the Summer School session with a pair of student performances this week. The performances will be at the school, 4747 Flora, Kansas City, MO 64110.
On July 22 at 7 p.m. in the Black Box Theater, students will present their rendition of the popular musical “You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown.” The production, based on the Charles Schultz “Peanuts” cartoon,” details how Charlie Brown struggles to buy-in to the “good man” accolades shared by his friends. In the end, Charlie Brown discovers what true happiness means.
On July 24 at 7 p.m. in the Main Theater, students will present “Paseo Live on Stage,” an eclectic mix of dance, music and original spoken word performances. The performances will touch nearly every aspect of arts education at Paseo and showcase the skills absorbed by students during the summer.
Theater doors open at 6:30 p.m. on the day of the performances for seating. For more information, please call (816) 418-2275. | 7/22/2008 | | Neighborhood Fairs to be Rescheduled |
A pair of Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD neighborhood fairs planned for the community this weekend will be rescheduled during two weekends in August.
The fair at James Elementary fair will be rescheduled for 4 to 8 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 2, 2008, at the school. The event is designed for the James community to address concerns related to changes in the school’s boundaries. However, the event will feature food, carnival games and the magician “Razzle The Dazzler.” Informative activities such as language proficiency tests, science activities, and library book giveaways and card registration will also be offered.
The fair at Garfield Elementary will be rescheduled for 2 to 6 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 16, 2008, at the school. Students, families and community members are invited to enjoy carnival games and delicious snacks, informative community booths and vendors, and important information about enrollment, free preschool and K-8 Neighborhood Schools.
Both events are free and open to the public. These fairs are an effort by the Kansas City, Missouri School District to bring important services and information directly to the community. | 7/17/2008 | | FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: Independence Boundary Changes |
Question: Where will my child attend school?
Answer: If your child lives in Kansas City within the Kansas City, Missouri School District’s (KCMSD) boundaries, they will attend KCMSD schools. If your child lives in Independence or Sugar Creek, they will attend school in the Independence School District.
Question: Will the Independence boundary transition affect when the 2008-2009 school year begins?
Answer: While the transition has led to many changes throughout the KCMSD, the 2008-2009 school year is expected to begin as scheduled on Aug. 25, 2008.
Question: How may I learn about school assignments?
Answer: In June, the District began mailing letters to parents of students currently enrolled in the KCMSD informing them of school assignments for the 2008-2009 school year. These assignments are heavily based on the District’s transition to K-8 Neighborhood Schools. A listing of our schools may be found on the District’s Web site, www.kcmsd.net.
Question: How do I arrange bus transportation for my student that previously attended school in Independence?
Answer: Transportation for all students is provided through the KCMSD Transportation Department. Working with your child’s school, the department will arrange for transport and send you notification. Please contact your child’s school for more details. To learn more, visit the KCMSD’s Web site at www.kcmsd.net or call (816) 418-8825.
Question: Which schools were transferred to the Independence School District?
Answer: The departing schools include Van Horn High School, Nowlin Middle School, and Sugar Creek, Fairmount, Mt. Washington, Three Trails, North Rock Creek/Korte elementary schools. Those schools are now owned by the Independence School District.
Question: Where will students that attended Van Horn High School attend school next year?
Answer: KCMSD recognizes the value of continuity in the classroom and will do all it can to keep groups of students from Independence together. To meet that standard, the District will convert East Elementary to a high school (Van Horn at East High School) to accommodate students on the end of the District. Other students will attend their comprehensive neighborhood high school or a specialty school.
Question: Will the legal questions about school building ownership in Independence impact my child’s enrollment in KCMSD?
Answer: The questions surrounding the ownership of the Independence buildings will play a significant role in the future of the Kansas City and Independence school districts. As the matter progresses, the KCMSD will work diligently to resolve the challenges faced by the buildings’ mortgage holders, the Kansas City, Missouri School District Building Corp., and the Independence School District. However, the buildings in question will not be used by KCMSD in the 2008-2009 school year.
Question: Will my child have a different set of teachers now that they are attending a school outside of Independence?
Answer: The District is committed to keeping groups of teachers and students together to create positive classroom environments. However, teachers, counselors and administrators previously assigned to Independence buildings will be placed in buildings where there experience and skills would benefit students.
Question: How do I contact the Independence School District?
Answer: You may reach the Independence School District at (816) 521-5300.
Question: If I have questions about my child’s enrollment status, whom should I contact? Answer: For more information, please call the KCMSD Admissions Office Parent Information Line at (816) 418-7505. | 7/14/2008 | | Paige Elementary to Celebrate 100th Anniversary of Baseball Legend's Birth | WHO: Students and staff at Satchel Paige Comprehensive Community School
WHAT: Special celebration for school’s namesake, baseball legend Satchel Paige
WHEN: Friday, July 11, 2008
WHERE: Satchel Paige school, 3301 E. 75th St., Kansas City, MO 64132
KANSAS CITY, MO. – Satchel Page Comprehensive Community School students will celebrate the 100th birthday of its namesake, Negro Leagues and Kansas City Monarchs’ star Satchel Paige, during a special series of events Friday, July 11, 2008, at the school.
Students will be treated to a colorful and exciting set of events including a special cupcake and ice cream dessert at lunchtime, an intramural baseball game during the physical education period and a special program in the school’s gym. The celebration will culminate in a balloon launch in Paige’s honor.
In addition Bob Kendrick, Negro Leagues Baseball Museum marketing director, will speak to students about Paige’s importance to the community. The museum has adopted the school and frequently offers support.
The event, a unique celebration of one of Kansas City’s most celebrated figures, will highlight Paige’s contributions to the community. While the actual birthday of Paige is disputed – some claim he was born in 1906 – the event promises to honor the baseball great’s legacy. | 7/10/2008 | | Frazier Gallery to Host Art Exhibition for District Staff |
WHO: Kansas City, Missouri School District teachers and staff
WHAT: “To Create a Better World: Artists as Educators” art exhibition
WHEN: 6 to 9 p.m., Friday, July 11, 2008
WHERE: The Robert Frazier Gallery of Art, 3120 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO
The Robert Frazier Gallery of Art will host the opening reception for the exhibition, “To Create a Better World: Artists as Educators,” featuring Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) art teachers and staff, current and emeritus, on Friday, July 11, 2008.
“It’s time to pat the teachers on the back and tell them, job well done,” says gallery Director Sonie Ruffin. “As artists, they continue to grow and pursue excellence in their medium. As teachers, their aim is to encourage student creativity not only within the arts, but across their educational experiences.”
More than 17 artists will be featured from KCMSD elementary and high schools, as well as administrative staff. The Department of Humanities of the KCMSD is sponsoring the exhibition. Martha Thompson serves as the director and Ken Van Pelt is the visual arts resource teacher.
“Through this exhibition, we acknowledge the hard work, creativity and pursuit of excellence by all our teachers that is not often shown,” says Carole Rhodes Dyson, arts coordinator and organizer of the exhibition. | 7/7/2008 | | KCMSD HEALTHY BACK TO SCHOOL EVENT | WHO: Kansas City, Missouri School District and Heart to Heart International
WHAT: KCMSD Healthy Back to School Event
WHEN: Friday, July 11, 2008
10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
WHERE: Afrikan-Centered Education Collegium Campus-Lower Campus
6410 East Meyer Boulevard
Kansas City, MO 64132
The Kansas City, Missouri School District, in conjunction with Heart to Heart International and Health Care USA, will be holding a Healthy Back to School Event on July 11, 2008 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Children ages 12-19 will be able to receive FREE physicals and immunizations at the Afrikan-Centered Education Collegium Campus.
This is a great opportunity for students to receive sports physicals or yearly check-ups. It is also a chance to update required immunizations. You and your family will also receive information about asthma, diabetes, obesity, dental, and other health issues. KCMSD enrollment information will also be provided.
Back packs for students and refreshments for all will be available. You won’t want to miss pictures with “Doc Bear” from 10 a.m.-noon and 4 p.m.-6 p.m.
Again, these are full health and sports physicals that will be offered at no charge to qualifying families. Please bring your Medicaid card and child’s immunization records to participate in this event. All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Questions? Please call School-Based Services at (816) 418-8641. | 7/3/2008 | | Letter from Dr. John Martin, interim superintendent, regarding the Independence transition | Dear parents and friends,
Today marks a new day for the Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD). After months of hard work, a decision was made by a state arbitration panel that will allow for the transfer of the Independence school buildings and the continued progress of KCMSD.
As always, our focus remains on the education of our students. Last month the District’s administration, with guidance from the Board of Directors, began the process of assigning Independence students that reside in Kansas City to other KCMSD schools for the 2008-2009 academic year. In conjunction with our transition to K-8 Neighborhood Schools, our goal is to integrate our students seamlessly into their new buildings.
To help answer any questions you might have, we encourage parents to call the Parent Information Line at (816) 871-7770 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays throughout the summer. This telephone bank will provide you with information about enrollment, transportation, K-8 Neighborhood Schools, school assignments and much more.
In the coming days you’ll likely be exposed to many media reports regarding the status of the transfer. We want to personally assure you that no matter the circumstances, your students will be placed in a situation where they’ll be able to learn and grow. The KCMSD is eagerly anticipating the beginning of another promising school year and we’re pleased to have your support. Have a great summer!
Sincerely,
John Martin, Ed. D
Interim superintendent
Kansas City, Missouri School District | 7/1/2008 | | Kansas City, Missouri School District Union Negotiations Continue | Wednesday, June 25, 2008, as a follow-up to the release issued Monday, June 23, 2008. The District is currently engaged in negotiations with the KCFT & SRP Local 691 (“Union”) under the guidance of the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Services (FMCS). In that regard, the District has advised the Union that it will continue good-faith negotiations until such time as a new collective bargaining agreement has been reached, or the parties have otherwise reached an impasse. During the negotiations, the District will continue to maintain the status quo regarding all terms and conditions of the expired contract.
It is the District’s belief that our partnership with the Union will produce an agreement that is both student-focused and fair to the teachers. The district’s intention is to achieve full accreditation and re-establish pride and trust among our students, staff and community. | 6/25/2008 | | Famous Rap Star Shares Life Lessons with Summer School Students | Grammy Award-winning rap star T.I. took a moment before a performance June 20 to speak with nearly 275 summer school students at Central High School about focusing on positive decision-making and working toward their goals. T.I., also known as Clifford Harris, spoke for nearly an hour and also answered questions from students.
The event was sponsored by The Harris Foundation, a Kansas City-based action group. Through the work of the foundation and District, students were fed lunch and transported by school bus home following the late afternoon visit. In addition, Ossco Bolton of the P.O.S.S.E. community action group spoke to students at the beginning of the event and encouraged them to listen to T.I.’s advice.
| 6/23/2008 | | Seven Graduates Earn $2,500 Scholarships Through District Partnership | Seven graduating seniors in the Kansas City, Missouri School District have been awarded $2,500 scholarships through a partnership between the District and its food service provider, Chartwells-Thompson. The scholarship awards were based on academic achievement, extracurricular activities, a 750 to 1,000-word essay and an interview. The winners were:
- LySaundra Campbell – Paseo Academy
- Patience Chea – Northeast
- Quinnee’ Fondren – Lincoln Prep
- Ricky Hicks – Central
- Gabrielle Howell – Lincoln Prep
- Joselyn Mathis – Lincoln Prep
- Kechena Richardson – Northeast
The students will be able to use the scholarships regardless of major. The students were honored during a luncheon at Harper’s Restaurant in the 18th & Vine District. | 6/19/2008 | | Superintendent comments about leadership in Kansas City Star article | See Interim Superintendent Dr. John Martin’s thoughts on the future of the District in an article entitled “Martin: Unity can save schools” in the June 19 edition of The Kansas City Star. Martin discusses the work of the Education Reform Task Force, the perception of the District and his career future plans. To read the story, click the link below:
http://www.kansascity.com/105/story/668086.html | 6/18/2008 | | Register now for Kansas City Royals baseball clinic | The Kansas City Royals and City of Kansas City will host the FREE Promoting a Lifetime of Activity for Youth (PLAY) baseball clinic for children ages 6-14 on Monday, June 23, 2008, at Kauffman Stadium.
The clinic, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., will be led by Royals’ players and athletic trainers on the Kauffman Stadium field. Registration is required; visit www.kcmo.org/youth. For more information, refer to the flyer attached below or call the city’s Youth Advocacy Office at (816) 513-1314. This is one of three clinics that will be provided this summer. | 6/18/2008 | | Lincoln Prep dancers offer water park tickets for fundraiser |
The Lincoln College Prep Tiger Dance Team is hosting a fundraiser at CoCo Key Water Resort (9103 E. 39th Street, Kansas City, MO) from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. on Monday, June 30, 2008. Tickets are $15 each – which is $10 off the regular admission price. For every ticket sold by dance team members, the squad will receive $5. This money will be used to offset the cost of Universal Dance Association Dance Camp ($289 per person).
Tickets may also be purchased at Lincoln College Prep Middle School, 2012 E. 23rd St., Kansas City, MO 64127. The hours are 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. If you have questions, please contact coach Mari Foster at (816) 418-3525. | 6/16/2008 | | Lincoln Prep Honor Students Steps Up to New Challenge at USMA West Point Summer Leaders Seminar | Lincoln College Preparatory Academy students can be confident of a solid foundation for the hottest new majors in any major college or university today, but Omar Safir is taking six years of classical Latin and his anthropology hobby to the United States Military Academy (USMA) at West Point. He departed June 7, 2008 for its week-long Summer Leaders Seminar (SLS). The USMA conducts the SLS for academically-gifted high school juniors going into their senior year.
The SLS is an intense discovery program of academic workshops, military training, physical fitness training and intramural athletics. It gives prospective cadets a week to decide whether West Point is the career track for them. Only 800 students are accepted nationwide.
“I felt as if I were working on a college application” said Safir of West Point’s invitation.
Safir is a 3rd year varsity football player, swimmer, and champion at state Latin competitions four years in a row. He also enjoys studying classical Greek civilization, and has a great sense of humor appreciated by his peers, appearing in costume as Apollo at student functions.
“They were really interested in the Latin and anthropology. I’ve also taken classes in physical fitness and sports administration, and that is really important to the armed forces and their leadership training program for future cadets. I guess that it’s proof that there’s more to athletics than performing on the field as a jock!”
West Point ranks among the top five in the nation in producing Rhodes scholars and Hertz fellows. Many seniors are also selected for Marshall, Gates, Cambridge, Truman, East-West Center and National Science Foundation fellowships and scholarships. It is one of the most respected academic institutions in the world.
“I hope to gain a better understanding of academic and service opportunities. It will be a physical and mental challenge. I’m also looking forward to meeting students from across the country.” | 6/18/2008 | | Small Change? East Elementary School Raises Over $2200 for Pakistani Schools | Today, even the memory of ‘penny candy’ is mere nostalgia for most adults. However, the students of East Elementary School have raised $2272.36 since April 2008 to aid students in war torn Pakistan . . . in pennies. They have done so by collecting small change in bottles placed throughout the school and collecting spare coins as donations.
The agreement was that nothing was to be brought in that was larger than a penny.
When East Elementary teacher Brit Kelly heard that a penny in Pakistan or Afghanistan could not only purchase a pencil, but pave the way to independence for girls in such stricken countries, it spurred her to action. She challenged her students and teachers to put these small coins, which even the U.S. Mint has considered discontinuing, into use. It sparked the imagination of her students and their families. Parents emptied the change from their wallets and purses daily.
“We never asked for checks, paper denominations, or large amounts,” Kelly said, “but I’ve had people call in and ask if they couldn’t just send in a one-time donation. I told them that wasn’t the purpose of this. I’ve had some adults send in money to the fund in lieu of gifts for themselves. The kids loved it.”
“Our best hope for a peaceful and prosperous world lies in the education of all the world’s children” said Principal Wendy McNitt. “We are a multi-cultural district. Through cross-cultural understanding and a solution-oriented approach, programs such as Pennies for Peace encourages our children, ultimately our future leaders, to be active participants in the creation of global peace.” | 6/18/2008 | | FREE Planetarium Programs! |
Celebrate Summer with the Stars!
Planetarium Programs
July Wednesdays Free! 10-11 a.m.
Solar Viewing
Weather permitting
Learn How to Use a Star Map
Locate bright summer stars and constellations
Weekly Features
Video and movie specials
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July
2 |
Saving the Night Sky - A short video on the effects of light pollution and some suggested solutions narrated by David Levy. |
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July
9 |
A Solar System Adventure - Travel to the planets as a crew member on the Star Traveler as it makes a historic journey to the Sun, the planets, and our Moon. This interactive and fact-filled program will inform and entertain students in grades 4-6, but is fun for all. |
|
July
10 |
extra Thursday evening pbs special: SEEING IN THE DARK also free – 7 PM. Stargazing is the theme of this video. Follow up with Summer Skies in the Planetarium 8:30-9:15. Telescope viewing 9-11 of the first quarter Moon, Saturn, Mars, and Jupiter. |
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July 16 |
The Reasons for Seasons - What are the two reasons for seasons on Earth, or for that matter, for those of all the other planets in our solar system? Spend a simulated year in the KCMSD Planetarium as we travel around the Sun and observe and plot the Sun's apparent path on the first day of each season. |
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July 23 |
Lifestyles of the Stars - Join a tour group, climb aboard a celestial tour bus, and visit some of the biggest, brightest, and hottest stars in the universe. Learn about different types of stars, how they are 'born,' their life cycle, and how different stars 'die.' Make and take a unique 4-finger star map and pick up an activity sheet about stars. |
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July 30 |
Follow the Drinking Gourd - Based on the illustrated book by Jeanette Winters. A family uses the stars of the 'Drinking Gourd' (the Big Dipper) to determine the direction north. Using this information they escaped from a plantation and made their way north to freedom. Learn how to use a polar star map to locate the stars of the ‘Drinking Gourd’ as well as other stars and constellations over the northern horizon. |
Call the Planetarium for more information at (816) 418-STAR (7827) to leave a message or press 0# to ring the Planetarium office. Location: 6512 Wornall Road (Southeast Corner of new KCMSD Southwest High School), Kansas City, MO 64113 | 6/18/2008 | | Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts to Hold Summer Auditions | Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts will hold auditions on Thursday, July 24, 2008, from 3 to 5 pm. Prospective students will be able to audition in each arts genre: theater/technical theater, vocal/instrumental music, dance, visual arts, creative writing.
Audition Packets are available at the Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts (4747 Flora, Kansas City, MO, 64110) and at the Kansas City, Missouri School District Admissions Office (Board of Education Building, 1211 McGee, Kansas City, MO, 64106). Students are requested to come prepared according to Audition Packet instructions.
Eligibility will be determined by the criteria outlined in the packets. Selections and notifications will be made the same day.
2008-2009 Summer Open Audition Dates
Auditions are open to all students of the Kansas City, Missouri School District in grades 9-12 as well as new students entering the District for the first time.
Thursday, July 24, 2008 3 p.m. One day only!
August 2008, Monday through Friday, by appointment only
Students from other districts, as well as charter and private schools may audition for entry to the Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts on July 24 or by appointment during weekdays (Monday through Friday) in August. The audition is part of the admissions process.
To confirm audition dates immediately, or ask questions about audition requirements, call Dennis J. Walker, Arts Program Administrator, at (816) 418-2346 or the school’s Main Office at (816) 418-2275.
The Paseo Fine Arts Exhibition Troupe is also available for a 45-minute lecture/demonstration to 8th grade classes at charter, private, and other academies during the academic year, as well as middle schools within KCMSD. Simply call the numbers above to schedule a performance after the beginning of the new school year. | 6/17/2008 | | Elementary unveils short clip of video yearbook |
James Elementary has brought its school yearbook into the 21st century with the creation of a video school yearbook. Led by computer teacher Jenny Raynor, sixth-grade students pieced together music and snapshots of activities that occurred during the 2007-2008 school year. To see a preview of this production, visit the Web link provided below.
http://animoto.com/play/MZPtF3dr4FxM1JVgAeQApA | 6/16/2008 | | WEEKS ELEMENTARY SUMMER SCHOOL SITE TO BE RELOCATED | Students scheduled to attend summer school at Weeks Elementary School will be relocated to Central K-7 School due to a damaged air-conditioning chiller. Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) maintenance officials inspected the unit and discovered the it was damaged, possibly due to a lightning strike the evening of Wednesday, June 11.
Central K-7 School is located 3611 Linwood, Kansas City, MO 64128.
District officials estimate it will take four to six weeks to replace the damaged unit at King Middle School. | 6/13/2008 | | KING MIDDLE SUMMER SCHOOL SITE TO BE RELOCATED | Students scheduled to attend summer school at King Middle School will be relocated to Kansas City Middle School of the Arts (KCMSA) due to a damaged air-conditioning chiller. Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) maintenance officials inspected the unit today (June 12) and discovered the unit was damaged, possibly due to a lightning strike the evening of Wednesday, June 11. The exact cause has not been determined.
Approximately 700 students in grades 1-7 were to attend summer school at King Middle School. Those students will relocate to KCMSA (4848 Woodland Ave., Kansas City, MO 64110) for the remainder of the summer. Meanwhile, students slated to attend KCMSA will attend classes at Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts. Transportation will not be interrupted by the relocation.
District officials estimate it will take four to six weeks to replace the damaged unit at King Middle School. | 6/13/2008 | | District honors valedictorians and salutatorians at first ever banquet event |
The Kansas City, Missouri School District honored its best and brightest high school seniors during its first-ever Val-Sal Luncheon on May 30, 2008 at the Intercontinental Hotel on the Country Club Plaza. The top two students from Westport High, Central High, Lincoln College Preparatory Academy, Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts, Northeast High, Southeast High and Van Horn High were honored at the event.
Bryan Busby, KMBC Channel 9 chief meteorologist, was the featured speaker for the event. The students were also honored by the Kansas City, Missouri School District Board of Directors, family members and the favorite teachers of the valedictorians and salutatorians. Each student received a plaque and a gift bag from the District.
The honorees (with valedictorians listed first) included:
· Central High - Ahmad Muhammad, Wayne Lane
· Northeast High – Preston Gazaway/ Truc Cu (co-valedictorians), Christopher Bernard
· Lincoln College Prep – Rachel Crammhorn, Lauren Jane Lynch
· Southeast High – Ebony Osby/ Shavon Brown (co-valedictorians)
· Westport High – Herman Flowers, Cassaundria R. Colding
· Paseo Academy – Shamika Renee Pegue
· Van Horn High - Wendy Alvarez, Mary Gordornes | 6/10/2008 | | Lincoln Prep to Host Youth Basketball Clinic |
Lincoln College Preparatory Academy will host a youth basketball camp for boys and girls from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., June 9-12 (Monday-Thursday), at the high school, 2111 Woodland Ave., Kansas City Mo. The camp is open to students in grades 5-8.
The camp will feature Lincoln Prep Boys’ Head Coach Marshall Draper – 2008 Metro Coach of the Year, Lincoln Prep Girls’ Basketball Coach Gayla Brown Curtis and other top area basketball coaches. The camp will emphasize dribbling, passing, rebounding, shooting and defensive techniques, as well as daily 5-on-5 competition. The camp will conclude with a tour of the College Basketball Experience adjacent to the Sprint Center.
The cost of the camp for an individual is $30 with early registration. The registration form is attached below. Campers may also register at the door for $35. For more information, contact Marshall Draper at (816)418-3525 ext. 3557, Gayla Brown Curtis at (816) 809-2329, or Bill Lindsay at (816) 418-3000 ext. 3011 | 6/2/2008 | | Pre-K Teacher First Sgt. Gordon Brown Honored by Troops to Teachers |
U.S. Army Reservist First Sgt. Gordon Brown, currently stationed in Iraq, had only begun teaching his PreK physical education class at ACECC when he was called into service. Tomorrow, his wife, Angela, and daughter, Jordan, will accept his Teacher of the Year Award given by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and the national Troops to Teachers Program. The award plaque will be presented at 10 a.m. by Missouri Director of Veteran’s Training Section Chad Shatz.
Brown also helped to institute the continuing education program on campus for its teachers through William Wood College before he was sent to Iraq, and plans to teach upon his return. Principal Janeda Oliver said, “Sgt. Brown infused energy and enthusiasm into everything he did. Staff and students have corresponded with him during his entire tour of duty, but we look forward to his coming back to us.” Brown’s daughter 4-year old daughter Jordan was also one of his students. “I got to see my Dad at work, and learn about healthy ways to exercise and eat. It was really fun!”
The Troops to Teachers program provides transitioning military personnel and spouses (Spouses to Teachers) with education opportunities in qualifying school districts across the country. Math and science are subjects in high demand, but many opt for PreK and special education. Up to $5,000 is available for qualifying individuals for continuing education. | 5/30/2008 | | Manual Tech to offer a variety of classes this summer | | 5/30/2008 | | KMBC Chief Meteorologist Bryan Busby to Address KCMSD Valedictorians & Salutatorians at District Celebration |
Bryan Busby of will provide the final send-off for the Kansas City, Missouri School District’s top high school graduates during the 2007-2008 Valedictorian & Salutatorian Celebratory Brunch. Students, along with family and teachers, will celebrate their academic achievement this Saturday as they look forward to their future.
Bryan Busby, Chief Meteorologist at KMBC 9 News, is one of Kansas City's leading weather experts and favorite TV personalities. He also serves as Chief Meteorologist for Carter Broadcasting, providing weather reports on radio station KPRS and Hot 103 Jamz. Busby holds six Emmy Awards, and has been nominated for ten more.
Busby’s interest in weather began in Cleveland, Ohio, when he was a child, and he got his start as a weatherman at the age of 17. “I will keep doing TV weather until it is not fun anymore. That is a FEW more years down the road," Busby laughs.
“I love my job. It was a childhood dream of mine to do TV weather. Since the third grade, this is what I wanted to do. I have a blast up there and I hope it shows."
“That’s the enthusiasm we hope our students will carry into their futures,” states interim District superintendent Dr. John Martin. “We know that if they love what they’re doing, the outcomes will be successful, no matter where their careers lead them.”
That is the message that one of Kansas City’s favorite TV personalities will convey to the honorees and their guests. | 5/29/2008 | | District Opens Phone Bank to Assist Parents with K-8 Transition |
The Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) has created a special phone bank to provide parents and community members with important information about the current transition to Kindergarten-8th Grade Neighborhood Schools. Persons seeking information about the transition, school boundaries, enrollment and related items are encouraged to call the District at (816) 871-7770 on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Beginning the 2008-2009 school year, the District will begin the final phase of the K-8 transition by moving students in kindergarten through fifth grade during the 2008-2009 school year to campuses located in their neighborhood. Students currently in grades 5-7 will remain in the schools where they are enrolled to allow them to maintain established relations with their peers and school staff. | 5/28/2008 | | Nowlin Middle Team Takes Trophies at DEBATE-KC City Championship | Nowlin Middle School debate students sparred with the best throughout the year and walked away with awards for their efforts at the city-wide championship. They placed fifth among their area’s top peers in the finals hosted by DEBATE-Kansas City at the University of Missouri-Kansas City on May 16, 2008.
“Nowlin Middle applauds these students,” said teacher La Juana Hill. “They should be proud of themselves . . . I told them to take their kudos and bows. They deserve it.”
“The competition was great, but what really counts is the confidence it gives you,” said team captain Rosa Escobedo. “Debate really makes you research topics, think through issues, and present your views logically in any setting. That’s really important today.”
The team included students Rosa Escobedo, Shekeyla McClain, Rodney Rodgers, Je’Rin Rubin, Anthony Ruelas, and D’Ashley Toombs.
DEBATE-Kansas City is a non-profit Urban Debate League supporting students, teachers and debate programs in urban middle schools and high schools. For more information, see http://www.debatekansascity.org. | 5/29/2008 | | DISTRICT GRADUATION & PROM DATES/TIMES/LOCATIONS |
Please see the below attachment. | 4/24/2008 | | Delano Grad Derrick Cooper Garners Merit Scholarship |
Derrick Cooper of R.J. Delano School is one step closer to his dream of a career in vocational education. The honor student at this K-12 school has received one of its most sought after awards. The R.J. Delano Scholarship will provide $750 towards books and expenses at Metropolitan Community College-Penn Valley.
Dr. Jennifer Malone, Delano principal, writes, “Derrick has been a wonderful example to the youth and to us all. He has maintained a 3.8-4.0 grade point average for the past two years, exhibited exemplary citizenship skills, and maintained a high confidence level, which is so important for our younger students to see, as we have students of all age levels here, with many challenges to face.”
R.J. Delano School was established by a polio victim in 1939 to help individuals struggling with physical and learning challenges to develop in a nurturing environment. Sarami Cheaqui (January 28, 1973-August 21, 1989) was born with multiple heart defects and lived with impaired health all her life. She came to Delano in 1987 and was greatly encouraged by the school, the staff, and her students. The school prides itself on its family-like tradition of self worth and self esteem for all individuals, regardless of physical or mental challenges, in this scholarship, awarded each year to a graduating senior.
The Sarami Cheaqui Memorial Fund was established in 1990 to provide scholarships to graduating students from R.J. Delano School in order to pursue higher education, and help continue this tradition of “family.” Scholarships are awarded based on financial need and the capacity of the student to benefit from additional training. Students may choose any post-secondary or vocational school within the state of Missouri. | 5/23/2008 | | Free Admission - In Season: Cooking Fresh From the Kansas City Farmer's Market | On Saturday, May 24, at 10:30 a.m. at the Central Library, 14 W. 10th St., local author Julienne Gehrer will give tips on how people can use local farmers' markets to cook fresh when she discusses her book, In Season: Cooking Fresh from the Kansas City's Farmer's Market.
Kids love it because it’s fun. You will too, because it is far less expensive, often quicker and easier than fast food. What is it? All types of fresh, natural fruits and vegetables that are grown right here in the area so they boost your resistance to disease and allergies. It’s brain food that will keep your family healthier and more alert when combined with programs such as PE4LIFE—already offered in the Kansas City, Missouri School District.
Gehrer, an editorial director for Hallmark Cards, has organized a unique collection of recipes and personal stories to help you cook with the rhythm of the seasons while learning about the people who grow the food. You and your family can learn about farming, the food you eat and make up some traditions of your own for a healthy future.
Admission is free. Parking is also free in the Library Parking Garage at 10th and Baltimore. Look for the easy registration form at the Library District web site http://www.kclibrary.org/rsvp/2008/juliennegehrer or call (816)701-3407 to indicate your interest in attending. Book availability subject to volumes allocated at local libraries.
| 5/20/2008 | | $10 Discount on Walking With Dinosaurs - The Live Experience |
Sprint Center is offering a $10 on selected tickets beginning with Walking with Dinosaurs – The Live Experience. The sights, sounds and subtleties of movement will make you feel as if you are looking at real dinosaurs - alive and responsive to everything, even the audience. Although you cannot actually touch the Dinosaurs, the experience will be "real" and "live.” Producer Bruce Mactaggart says, “It is the closest you’ll ever get to experiencing what it was like when they walked and ruled the earth.”
No TicketMaster fees! The only additional charge is a $1.25 per ticket print at home fee.* The discount is available on the Thursday, June 5 7p.m. and Friday, June 6 11a.m. performances. Tickets good for the upper seating bowl at $19.50 plus $1.25 ticket fee (Full price was $29.50). The offer is valid until May 30. Offer valid for staff, students and parents of the Kansas City, Missouri School District only.
For more details on Walking With Dinosaurs you may visit www.dinosaurlive.com or view the below attached FAQs.
· Join “Huxley the paleontologist” on the award-winning TV series Walking With Dinosaurs on which our show is based.
· The show is open to all age groups! Young children under 24 months of age may attend free of admission as long as they may sit in their parents’ laps and do not require extra seating.
*19.50 + 1.25=20.75 total price per ticket through Friday, May 30, only. | 5/20/2008 | | Schedule for Class 3 District 7 track meet schedule set |
The Missouri Class 3 District 7 Track Meet on Saturday, May 10, 2008, at Memorial Stadium – Middle School, 601 S. Highland, Harrisonville, Missouri 64701. The finals begin at 1:30 p.m.; the participating schools and schedule are as follows:
Varsity Boys Teams (15): Center, Clinton, Grain Valley, Harrisonville, Holden, O’Hara, Oak Grove, Odessa, Paseo Academ |
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