News & Events

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Title I Council Meeting - March 18

3/11/2010

Parent Resource Center to host U.S. Census job testing

3/10/2010

Nine Trailwoods Elementary students earn game tickets in reading and fitness challenge

Nine Trailwoods Elementary students will be attending the Phillips 66 Big 12 Conference Women’s Basketball Championship on Thursday, March 11 as their reward for successfully completing the WIN for KC Reading and Fitness Challenge.

Students in grades 3-8 were challenged to read 12 books and complete at least two fitness logs by Feb. 5. The winning students will also receive Chick-Fil-A coupons and a certificate of achievement. Top contender Stephanie Velarde will be the featured reader at halftime, as well as receive extra prizes.

The nine Trailwoods winners are:

Stephanie Velarde (top reader for Trailwoods)
Estefany Mejia
Brandy Deron
Evelyn Caro-Gutierrez
Hilda Alvarado
Samarah Ysles
Aurora Mendez
Ruth Rodriquez
Miciel Arias

WIN for KC is a program under the umbrella of the Kansas City Sports Commission and Foundation, and encourages the involvement of girls and women in sports.

3/10/2010

Southeast Community Center Open House - March 13

3/13/2010

School assignments to come in second phase of District transformation

The following is a statement from Dr. John W. Covington, KCMSD Superintendent, regarding school assignments following the Right Sizing plan:

“On Wednesday the School Board will consider a plan to right size our school district. With the Board’s support and approval we’ll dramatically enhance education for each of our students by combining our very best teachers and very best resources in fewer schools. Of course, this also means a significant change could occur in school assignments for many students and families.

The first step is for the School Board to consider approval of the Right Sizing proposal. My District team remains hopeful that will occur. From that point the team will complete and implement our Transformation Plan, a blueprint that will guide us through a reorganization of the District. During this time new attendance boundaries will be set for our non-Signature Schools. Once the boundaries are set the District will send written notification to the families of students whose school assignments will change from the previous academic year.

These notifications will occur well in advance of the 2010-2011 School Year. We ask for the patience of our families as we bound over the first hurdle. From that point we will work quickly and collaboratively to ensure our families are well informed and clear about where their student will attend school next year.”

3/9/2010

Lincoln Prep JROTC cadets target 100 pints as blood drive goal

Lincoln College Prep Junior Reserve Officers Training Corp (JROTC) cadets plan to collect at least 100 pints of blood for the Community Blood Center from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, March 12. Students 16 years or older may participate, as well as parents.

Students 16 years of age will be asked for a signed parental consent form. Parents may come at their convenience, and will be given priority assistance.

For more information, please contact Major Ronald Buske or First Sgt. Donald Brown at (816) 418-3027 or rbuske@kcmsd.net.

3/8/2010

Gladstone Academy raises $800 at McDonald's Night event

Gladstone Academy made nearly $800 during the school’s McDonald’s Night on March 4.

Families turned out to the McDonald’s location at 5347 Independence Ave. for the second time this school year.

“It was a packed house. The students really enjoyed seeing Ronald McDonald,” said Principal Dana Carter. “The families at Gladstone are really awesome and always come out to show their support.”

3/8/2010

Pinkerton to host pancakes and MAP workshop for parents

3/8/2010

District Young Achiever stars in Fox 4’s Reaching for Excellence feature

Annitra McDonald, senior at Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts, will be the featured Young Achiever on Fox 4’s Reaching for Excellence report by Phil Witt at 9 pm., Wednesday, March 24. McDonald has been named Youth of the Year by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City, and will be going on to state competition.

The report will also run on the 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. Thursday, March 25 newscasts. In addition, the weekend morning news team usually runs the Young Achiever reports so look for the story in the 7-9 a.m. news block on Sunday, March 28.

3/8/2010

Longfellow 6th Graders send thank you to First Lady for health initiative

Sixth-grade students at Longfellow Elementary sent letters and pictures to the nation’s First Lady, Michelle Obama, on March 5 to thank her for taking the lead against childhood obesity in the United States and to support her program “Let’s Move.”

The students were led by Longfellow health/physical education teacher Paulette Coble. Students shared what they are doing to stay in shape and to fight against childhood obesity, Type II diabetes and high blood pressure.

3/8/2010

Community partner donates to save a safe ride to school for students

Safelite Autoglass came through for a Foreign Language Academy (FLA) preschool student, the family, and the school with a timely donation of a van window on March 4. The grandmother came to early childhood teacher Teena Gee distraught because the van which she uses to transport several Foreign Language Academy students had been broken into and the pane of glass was broken.

Gee went into action outside the regular routine of curriculum and instruction. With the help of the parent liaison and the LINC (Local Investment Commission) coordinator, she tried to interest area autoglass places in the dilemma. They were not successful after several tries, but Gee wouldn’t give up, calling one last place—Safelite Autoglass, a national company based in Ohio. She spoke to their human resource department about the situation, and their response was, “Yes, we will!”

Safelite Autoglass sent a confirmation letter, and the grandmom will have a new glass window for her van, and FLA students a safe ride to school. Safelite Autoglass has proven to FLA students: persistence pays off!

3/8/2010

Superintendent revises right-sizing recommendation

The Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) School Board received copies on March 1 of a recommendation by Superintendent Dr. John Covington to close or reconstitute 28 of the District’s 61 facilities. The Board will review the proposal during a special public meeting at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 3, at the Board of Education building, 1211 McGee St., Kansas City, MO.

The School Board is scheduled to consider the proposal for adoption during its regular meeting at
6:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 10, at the Board of Education building.

“The Right Sizing proposal my team has submitted was crafted after receiving responses from more than 1,400 community members during five public forums and through an on-line survey. These decisions are necessary to ensure that the district can invest in building stronger programs which focus resources and support to meet the needs of our students,” Covington said.

The current proposal is as follows:

High schools (closures)

· Westport High School

· Southeast High at Manual

Middle schools

· Afrikan-Centered Education Collegium Campus 6^th Grade Center (Relocation: ACE Upper Campus/former Southeast High building)

· Kansas City Middle School of The Arts (Combining with Paseo Academy – Grades 7-12)

· Lincoln College Prep (Combining with high school students – grades 6-12 in high school building)

· Westport Middle School – (building to be used for staging in SY 10)

Elementary schools

· Askew

· Franklin (Program to move to Faxon building)

· Knotts

· Ladd

· Longan French Immersion (Program to be added to Foreign Language Academy)

· McCoy

· Moore

· Northeast Elementary

· Pinkerton

· Richardson (Program moves to Weeks/King complex)

· West Rock Creek

· ACE Lower Campus (Relocation: ACE Upper Campus/former Southeast High building)

· Swinney

· Woodland

Alternative schools (Status of programs to be determined)

· C.R. Anderson High at Fairview

· Teenage Parent Center

· Central Academy (Middle School)

Early Childhood Centers (Buildings to close – programs to move to elementary schools)

· Douglas ECH

· Clymer (Building is leased for Head Start – will no longer be used)

· Guinotte Manor (Building is leased for Head Start – will no longer be used)

· Mohart (Building is leased for Head Start – will no longer be used)

· Scarritt ECH

Administrative/support facilities

· Board of Education building – 1211 McGee

· Adult Basic Education Center (21^st and Charlotte)

Reconstitution –The following schools will be restructured per the federal No Child Left Behind Act. Districts may take this action when a school has been ruled academically deficient.

· Central High School

· King Elementary/Weeks Early Childhood Center

· Melcher Elementary

· Rogers Elementary

· Troost elementary

3/2/2010

Supplemental Education Services (SES) - Second Application Window begins Feb. 16

The second enrollment window for the District's Supplemental Education Services (SES) effort will be Feb. 16 to Feb. 27.

To learn more about the program, including FREE TUTORING, click here!

2/23/2010

Trailwoods Elementary gets a jump start on spring cleaning

Saturday, March 6 is spring cleaning day at Trailwoods Elementary, and the school is looking forward to an early spring spruce-up with the help of community partner Kansas City Baptist Temple. Volunteers working 7:30 a.m. to noon will clean, paint, and complete some general housekeeping chores in and around Trailwoods.

“We really appreciate this jump start on our spring cleaning,” said Principal Craig Waters. “Our students love coming to school, and our friends at Kansas City Baptist Temple are making sure Trailwoods is always welcoming and safe.”

3/5/2010

Central High students take the lead in “Read Across America”

Young students at Banneker, Ladd, Longan, and King elementary schools were all ears as Central High students stepped up as guest readers on Dr. Seuss’ birthday, March 2. Members of the National Honor Society and multimedia students took the opportunity during “Read Across America” to share the importance of literacy and the joy of books.

Central High students built momentum into their effort by taking pictures of elementary school students and creating posters specific to each school. Children enjoyed the teens’ visits, as the older students provide relevant role models.

Central High students were also able to practice their photography, graphic, and academic skills, with librarian Donna Williams-Kubic coordinating the events. The following students participated: Sydnie Brown, Ryonita Byers-Myles, Shayla Cooper, Rheyna Lewis, Jules Maxi, Cheryl Nuckols, Rodnesha Pegues, Marie Sanders, Marquan Walker, and Rahnesha Woodson.

3/5/2010

Garcia Elementary hosts Spanish language immersion course for Kansas City police officers

The Kansas City, Missouri Police Department (KCPD) will hold its fourth year of a Spanish Immersion Program on March 8-12 at Primitivo Garcia Elementary. Twenty officers are selected to complete the 10-week intensive language course that has helped the department bridge the communication gap between the KCPD and the community.

The course is taught by a native of Moralia, Mexico. Officers learn basic fluency skills such as speaking, reading and writing, as well as culture and customs. During a one-week break, officers will visit seven sites throughout the Hispanic community to interact with residents as community volunteers.

The police department chose to house the program at a local school to help officers form close bonds with the community, as well as the businesses and organizations located in it. You may find them at the Guadalupe Center or the Don Bosco Senior Center playing bingo and dominos with the residents. They will also assist teachers at Primitivo Garcia and St. Stephen’s Academy, or simply read to the students of Plaza de Nino’. All will be practicing their Spanish and creating lasting relationships.

On the final day, the officers will show up in uniform and surprise their new friends. What they hope to have accomplished by the last day of class is demonstrate their commitment to the communities they serve.

3/5/2010

Central Academy students play their part in the 21st Century African-American Read-in Project

On Feb. 24, Central Academy took part in the 21^st African-American Read-In Project with the community.

A public reading and presentation featured works by African American writers, read by representatives from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, the Kansas City Health Department, Penn Valley Community College, Kansas City Kansas Community College, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Students in grades five through eight shared poems, songs, and writings that impacted them.

The community shared poems, stories, and excerpts of plays, with a dramatic interpretation of John Steptoe’s “Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters” as the grand finale. Fifth graders especially connected to the presentation, as they had just finished reading the book. Volunteers and students discussed the power of narrative, as well as the historical perspective of the African American heritage.

Jacquelene Wheeler, Pat Ernst, Debra Ellis, Scharley Barry and Brenda Smith of Central Academy coordinated the event; the community committee included Tiffany Williams, Jacqueline Jones, Tanya Townsend, Kenneth Beene, and Frank Lavender.

Over a million readers nationwide participated in the 21^st African-American Read-In Project this year. The Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) and the NCTE organization sponsored the event at Central Academy. The International Reading Association endorses the program.

3/4/2010

Satchel Paige hosts its annual Career Fair

Satchel Paige Elementary hosted its annual Career Fair this week.

The school would like to present special thanks all of its presenters for their time and dedication.

There was a representative from the following careers and agencies: phlebotomy, author; Avon; Kansas City Police Department; Kansas City, Missouri School District; dentistry; U.S. Army; MAST; AMC theatre; Rosebrook; American Red Cross; M&I Bank; Kansas City Fire Department; clergy; Salaam Café; pharmacy; Kissick Construction Co.; Carter Broadcast Group; neurology; YouthFriends; U.S. Census; Wayside Waifs; Kansas City Star; Ace White Construction; Outback Steakhouse.

3/4/2010

Garfield Elementary collects 1,500 canned good items for Harvesters

The students at Garfield Elementary have donated 1,500 canned good items to Harvesters Food Network.

the donation was made this week.

3/4/2010

The Cottonwood Group donates $400 in books to Banneker Elementary

The Cottonwood Group, a consulting firm specializing in corporate retirement programs, donated about $400 worth of books to the Banneker Elementary library media center.

“The Cottonwood Group recognizes how important reading is in the education process and wanted to help in some way,” said library media specialist Diedre Stratton. “The students are so thankful for their willingness to support our school. We truly appreciate corporate sponsors like The Cottonwood Group.”

3/4/2010

Banneker school community to host art benefit for new playground equipment

3/4/2010

School Board schedules special meeting to review right-sizing proposal

The Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) Board of Directors will meet during a special session at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 3 to a review and discuss a revised version of the District’s “Right Sizing the District” proposal.

The meeting will be at the Board of Education building, 1211 McGee St., KCMO.

The School Board voted to schedule the meeting following nearly an hour of impassioned commentary from the community tonight. Superintendent Dr. John Covington will forward the information to the Board by March 1. The Board will consider the proposal during its regularly scheduled meeting on March 10.

Click here for more Right Sizing information.

Last week more than 1,400 parents and community stakeholders attended five community forums to express their concerns and suggestions about the right-sizing plan. Even more weighed in through an on-line survey and via e-mail.

District enrollments have declined from 35,712 in the 1999-2000 school year to 17,275 in 2009-10. This reflects a decline in enrollment of 18,437 students, and projections for future enrollments indicate that this trend will continue.

The closing of 30 of the district’s 61 schools is the first phase of right-sizing the district.

“Closing schools is hard – and it is tough on the community,” said Covington. “Closing schools and making the remaining schools much stronger academically is unquestionably the right thing to do for kids. Keeping all of the schools open with too few children in them is draining the resources we need to improve the education of ALL students.”

Following the closure process, the Superintendent and his leadership team will present a comprehensive plan to deliver the necessary instructional and support systems needed to move the District forward in achieving its mission as a transformational, multi-cultural urban education system.

2/24/2010

Lincoln Prep’s “Golden Tigers” compete in FIRST Robotics LEGO League Capitol Invitational

The Golden Tigers robotics team will represent Lincoln College Preparatory Academy in the FIRST® Robotics Capitol invitational in the Capitol rotunda, 10 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., Thursday, March 4. The Missouri METS Coalition is hosting a robotics competition as part of the festivities marking Math, Engineering, Technology and Science Week.

More than 100 teams across Missouri compete in FIRST LEGO® League, with students running LEGO MINDSTORM® robots and displaying research work. The league introduces students ages 9-14 to a new real world challenge every year. Students are confronting some of today’s transportation safety and efficiency problems by applying robotics, sensor technology, and fresh thinking to solve issues. These “missions” include efficiency planning, object avoidance, climbing steep bridges with no guard rails, passenger transport, and crash tests.

Legislation was passed during the 2009 legislative session designating the first week of March as “Math, Engineering, Technology and Science (METS) week. The Capitol Invitational is sponsored by the Missouri METS Coalition, a group of business, education, government, and community stakeholders who have come together to foster collaborations to ensure Missouri citizens are equipped with knowledge and skills in mathematics, engineering, technology and science to prosper in a global economy.

3/3/2010

Business, civic leaders announce support for Right-Sizing effort

More than 40 individuals, businesses and civic interests issued a full-page joint announcement of support for the Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) Right-Sizing Proposal in today’s edition of The Kansas City Star.

The announcement, on page A17, comes hours before the KCMSD Board of Directors reviews the proposal during a special public meeting at 5:30 p.m. TONIGHT at 1211 McGee St., Kansas City, MO 64106. The Board is expected to consider the proposal for adoption on Wednesday. March 10.

“The support of the community is invaluable as the District nears the end of this challenging yet rewarding right-sizing process,” said KCMSD Superintendent Dr. John W. Covington. “The quality of our schools is a reflection of our community, and buy-in from civic and community leaders is crucial. We thank those organizations and individuals who are willing to step forward in support of our students.”

3/3/2010

English Language Learners Newsletter No. 4

Please click the attached filed below to view the ELL Newsletter from the Language Services Department.

3/3/2010

“Urban Edge” hits the runway at Paseo Academy’s fashion show

Fashion and costume design have become a branded commodity at the Paseo Academy of Fine & Performing Arts. The public is invited to a dinner and preview showing from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, March 12. The $15 ticket includes dinner at 6 p.m., with reserved seating for the fashion show at 7:15 p.m.

This year, the annual sell-out fashion show will include a tour of the new Urban Edge Boutique, a student-owned and operated business located at the school site.

Look for eye-catching, wearable originals created by Paseo’s fashion design students that run the gamut from leisure to professional to glamour and glitz. Have something in mind for your student’s athletic team or your own special group? Production at Urban Edge is of the highest quality. For instance, specialty tees include embroidery rather than just transfer patterns for a durable product, and everything is competitively priced. Stop by after the fashion show and share some of your thoughts with the student managers of Urban Edge. They’ll bring your ideas to life.

“They’ve done all the work,” said Fashion and Costume Design teacher Pam Lucas. “They came up with the business plan, researched the store location, and their target market. Urban Edge is something that works for our student clientele.”

Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts is located at 4747 Flora, Kansas City, MO 64110. Call Pam Lucas at (816) 418-2275 for ticket information.

3/3/2010

District students sweep citywide DEBATE-KC competition

Approximately 100 Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) students participated in the DEBATE-KC City Championships on Feb. 27. Several students were successful.

The event is expected to draw more than 200 students to debate pressing issues of the day. The results are as follows:

High School Sweepstakes

Central High School

Lincoln College Preparatory Academy

Middle School Sweepstakes

Lincoln College Preparatory Academy

Middle School Congress

Lincoln College Preparatory Academy Shkyra Johnson
Afrikan-centered Collegium Campus Alison James
Afrikan-centered Collegium Campus Kivon Graves

Lincoln College Preparatory Academy Derrick Parker

Lincoln College Preparatory Academy Helima Jackson

Lincoln College Preparatory Academy Ashley McBride
Lincoln College Preparatory Academy Latasha Ellis

Afrikan-Centered Collegium Campus Terez Lewis

High School Congress

Lincoln College Preparatory Academy Kalib Keith
Lincoln College Preparatory Academy Palma Hagens
Central High School Jay Walters

Lincoln College Preparatory Academy Kristina Gardner
Lincoln College Preparatory Academy Darius Griffen

Afrikan-centered Collegium Campus Solomon Ward

Middle School Policy Debate Teams

Lincoln College Preparatory Academy Roderick Smith & Sean Timmons

Middle School Policy Debate Speakers

Lincoln College Preparatory Academy Jonae Wells

Lincoln College Preparatory Academy Hanna Keneally

Novice Policy Debate Teams

Central High School Brianna Thompson & Corrie Mills

Novice Policy Debate Speakers

Central High School Brianna Thompson

Northeast Elementary School Joe Lesar

Central High School Corrie Mills

Northeast Middle School Darell Clarke

Varsity Policy Debate Teams

Central High School Sydnie Brown & Marquez Waldrup Banks
Central High School Larry Coats & Reeyanna Segheg
Lincoln College Preparatory Academy Anya Doynov

Varsity Policy Debate Speakers

Central High School Larry Coats
Central High School Marquez Waldrup Banks
Lincoln College Preparatory Academy Cory Fisher
Central High School Sydnie Brown
Lincoln College Preparatory Academy Anya Doynov
Lincoln College Preparatory Academy Riley Kelly
Lincoln College Preparatory Academy Jared Freeman
Lincoln College Preparatory Academy Jeanisse Webb-Nelson
Central High School Josh Chapman
Lincoln College Preparatory Academy Olivia Taylor Butler

The competition, drawing over 200 students from the greater Kansas City area, was sponsored by the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association, and hosted by Lincoln College Preparatory Academy and the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

3/2/2010

District staffer to be inducted into Kansas Music Hall of Fame

Jim Pritchett, a building mechanic at Northeast High School, will be inducted into the Kansas Music Hall of Fame on Saturday, March 6. He will be inducted as a member of the Green River Ordinance, a popular band in Kansas in the 1960s and 1970s.

The event will be at 7 p.m. at Liberty Hall, 644 Massachusetts Street, Lawrence, KS.

3/2/2010

Students to speak out on future of schools during radio show at Bluford library branch

Graduates and current students of the Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) will discuss the April Kansas City School Board elections on the KCUR 89.3 FM show “KC Currents” on Sunday, March 7. The theme of the discussion will be “The Future of Kansas City Schools.”

“KC Currents” is a magazine-style show covering Kansas City’s minority communities. The show will air live at 5 p.m. at the Lucile H. Bluford Library Branch, 3050 Prospect Ave., and replay at 8 p.m. Monday, March 8. Graduates and current KCMSD students will take part in a dialogue, along with students of neighboring districts.

This featured event is part of the grand re-opening celebration of the Lucile H. Bluford Library Branch.

3/1/2010

Community and District leaders to encourage Wheatley Elementary students during “Read Across America”

Alvin Brooks of the AdHoc Group Against Crime and Brandon Carr of the Kansas City Chiefs lead the line-up of guest readers that will challenge Wheatley Elementary students to enjoy reading on “Read Across America” day. The festivities at Wheatley begin at 9:15 a.m. Tuesday, March 2.

The reader’s group also includes Anthony Moore, Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) Director of Elementary Education; school board member Airick Leonard West; Karen Lott, author of “The Binkie Fairy”; plus other community leaders and KCMSD staff members.

“We want to send a clear message that reading is both fun and important,” said Covington, “and to challenge adults to read to their children every day.” Dr. Seuss always maintained, “You're never too old, too wacky, too wild, to pick up a book and read to a child.” He epitomizes a love of children and learning, and his use of rhyme makes his books an effective tool for teaching young children the basic skills they need to be successful.

3/1/2010

Westport Tiger Battalion wins third place in regional competition

Westport Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC) Tiger Battalion won third place in the unarmed drill division at the Smith-Cotton Regional Invitational Drill Meet on Feb. 20. Competing against 21 schools—some nationally ranked—the Tiger Battalion marched with precision, discipline, and some fancy moves to secure a top ranking under the direction of Cadet Commander Marticka Curry.

Smith-Cotton High School hosted the meet in Sedalia, Mo.

3/1/2010

James Elementary newsletter

Please click the attached file below to view the James Elementary school newsletter.

3/1/2010

Weeks Early Learning Center to celebrate African-American heritage

Mary Harmon Weeks Early Learning Center will celebrate the heritage of African-Americans with a special program at 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 26. The program will be in the gymnasium at the school, 4201 Indiana, Kansas City, MO 64130.

A soul food meal will be provided following the program.

2/25/2010

Paige Elementary librarian to lead workshop on the Holocaust

Rebecca M. Parker, the librarian at Paige Elementary, will present a workshop on the Holocaust at the Missouri Association of School Librarians spring conference, April 18-20 at Tan-Tar-A Family Resort in Osage Beach, MO.

This will be Parker’s second year to present information at the conference. She is a participant in the Isak Federman Holocaust Teaching Cadre of the Midwest Center for Holocaust Education.

2/25/2010

You're invited: First District Advisory Committee (DAC) Leadership Development Retreat

School Advisory Committee (SAC) Officers, District Advisory Committee (DAC) Delegates, Title I Delegates, Exceptional Education Delegates, and English Language Learners Delegates are invited to the First District Advisory Committee (DAC) Leadership Development Retreat.

Attend for a weekend of invaluable training designed to educate and empower you to be a key asset in improving student achievement and enhancing your child’s school climate.

When: Friday, Feb. 26, from 6 to 9 p.m.

Saturday, February 27th, 8am-completion (around 8 p.m.)

Where: UMKC - Union Station, 4th Floor

You may visit the link below fill out the form and fax it to the Parent Resource Center (PRC) at 418-8617.

DAC Leadership Training Link

2/25/2010

Paseo Academy creation ready for Breakaway robotics soccer game

“The Pasiliens” robotics team of Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts put their creation, No. 1637, through its paces at a special open house on Feb. 22 hosted by sponsor Midwest Research Institute (MRI). The students are readying for FIRST(For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics regional competition March 4-6 at Hale Arena.

The student-built robot scooted forwards, back and sideways in some fancy moves to score goals while the Pasiliens and MRI administrators took turns “driving.” While there are no goalies in this game, the challenge was intense. During the first 15 seconds at the competition in March, No. 1637 will be on its own in a “solo” drive towards the Breakaway goal.

Each year, FIRST Robotics provides high school students with a “problem” to solve in designing and building their robots for the Hale Arena regional competition. This year, the Breakaway soccer game will test the ingenuity and skills of the Paseo “Pasiliens” as never before.

Admission and parking are free for the family-friendly venue. Visitors will have a chance to see the robots up close in a Pit Tour, and all can take turns at “driving” with interactive game simulators. Lego League demonstrations are sure to interest middle school students in the games as well as STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) disciplines.

Hale Arena is located at 1701 American Royal Court, Kansas City, MO 64102. Practice rounds are scheduled for Thursday, with seeding matches at 9 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Awards ceremonies are scheduled 5:45 p.m. Friday and 5 p.m. Saturday.

2/25/2010

Woodland Elementary teacher joins ranks of local television station weather bloggers/storm spotters

Woodland Elementary’s William Walberg is now a “certified storm chaser” as he joins other NBC Action weather bloggers/storm spotters at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 25. After the meeting, participants will tour the Weather Center at the station.

The introductory meeting will be going over storm spotting and chasing, plus LRC (Lezak’s Recurring Cycle). New storm chasers will meet the NBC Action News weather team. Stormy the Weather Dog will entertain as well.

Catch the daily blog at http://community.nbcactionnews.com/blogs/weatherblog/default.aspx.

2/24/2010

Parents Raise a Reader School Challenge

Would you like to win $5,000 for your school library?

The International Reading Association is sponsoring a competition worth $5,000 to the school whose students are able to log the highest number of reading minutes per student. Individual students can also earn prizes. In order to participate in the challenge, parents/guardians of your students log the number of minutes their children read at home beginning March 8 and ending May 31.

The registration form takes about a minute and can be completed online. The deadline for registration is Feb. 28. All Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) schools are invited to join the campaign.

To register your school or to learn more information, follow the link below.

http://www.parents.com/reading/school

2/24/2010

State education commissioner issues statement in support of District

Missouri Commissioner of Education Chris L. Nicastro announced today her strong support for the current efforts by Kansas City school board members and Superintendent John Covington to assure the long-term viability of the school district. She commended Covington and his team for leading a responsive process which aggressively addresses the district’s severe financial issues.

“It is clear the school board needs to make some difficult decisions,” Nicastro said. “They are doing the right thing in putting together a sound and fiscally responsible plan to assure its students will receive a quality education.”

After years of significant student population decline, the district is now considering major facility and staff reductions in response.

“The community needs to be aware and actively engaged, and it also needs to support the board and the superintendent as they work tirelessly on behalf of their students,” she emphasized.

2/24/2010

Eight District students selected for Missouri Fine Arts Academy 2010

Eight “gifted and talented” students of the Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) will be participating in the 2010 Missouri Fine Arts Academy (MFFA) on the campus of Missouri State University June 6-26.

District participants were selected from 200 nominees across Missouri. This year, all nominees submitted were accepted to MFFA. As participants, our students will be guests of the state of Missouri, the city of Springfield, and Missouri State University.

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education administers the Fine Arts Academy in cooperation with Missouri State University. The academy was established to provide enrichment opportunities which are not provided in most high school programs. Students will benefit personally from this unique experience, and go on to play a role in the development and improvement of programs for advanced students throughout Missouri’s schools.

Our 2010 MFFA participants are as follows:

Abdullhamid-Ahmed Ali (Visual Arts) – Lincoln College Preparatory Academy

Victor Cole (Instrumental-Violin) – Lincoln College Preparatory Academy

Gabrielle Davis (Dance) – Paseo Academy of the Fine and Performing Arts

Melvin Gibson, Jr. (Theatre-Drama) – Paseo Academy of the Fine and Performing Arts

Montanna McDaniel (Instrumental-Trumpet) – Paseo Academy of the Fine and Performing Arts

William Newman - (Theatre-Drama) – Paseo Academy of the Fine and Performing Arts

Lucas Piercy - (Theatre-Drama) – Paseo Academy of the Fine and Performing Arts

Cedric Woodcuff (Vocal) – Paseo Academy of the Fine and Performing Arts

Congratulations to these outstanding students and their Gifted and Talented Teachers: Sharon McIntosh, Janice Lile-O'Donnell and Elaine Monroe Lucas.

2/24/2010

Faxon Montessori celebrates Black History Month with literacy activities

In celebration of Black History Month, Faxon Montessori School carried out two literacy activities on Feb. 18– “African-American Read-in Chain” and “Reading is Fundamental.”

Four school-wide read-in activities were organized by librarian Jane Pettman. Also, Kellie Jones, Parent Involvement Liaison, invited guest readers Christine Taylor-Butler and Sterling Brown to read books by Black authors to the students.

Taylor-Butler is a local African-American author who has written several fiction and nonfiction books. She read her own book and gave students an inside look into the writing process involved in the making of the book.

Meanwhile, Brown, a local musician, read and played the harmonica for students.

The read-in activities are part of the school’s participation with the annual African-American Read-in Chain, sponsored by the National Council of Teachers of English. The school has participated in this event for several years. Last year Faxon Montessori was one of two organizations in Kansas City (the other was the University of Missouri-Kansas City) that participated in the African-American Read-in Chain.

Every student also took home a book courtesy of the Reading is Fundamental program, a program that is financially supported by Faxon’s School Advisory Committee (SAC) and PTA.

2/22/2010

District students contend in FIRST regional robotics “Breakaway” soccer game

Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) students kick up the friendly rivalry a notch at the FIRST Robotics Competition beginning at 9 a.m. daily, Thursday through Saturday, March 4-6. In addition to the seeding matches, robot demonstrations, and visits to the pit stops, look for the exciting new entry a “Breakaway” robotics soccer game.

The regional competition takes place at Hale Arena, 1701 American Royal Court, Kansas City, MO 64102. Practice rounds are scheduled for Thursday, with seeding matches at 9 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Awards ceremonies are scheduled 5:45 p.m. Friday and 5 p.m. Saturday.

The objective of FIRST(For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) robotics is to inspire young people to be science and technology leaders, by engaging them in exciting mentor-based programs that build science, engineering and technology skills, that inspire innovation, and that foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership.

2/22/2010

Covington to share insights on the District at community leadership seminar

Superintendent John Covington will offer commentary about the present and future of the Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) during a meeting of the Midwest Center for Non-profit Leadership. The meeting will be from 7:30 to 9 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 22, at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC).

The theme of Covington’s comments will be “Special Insights on the Kansas City, Missouri School District.” This session of the 2009-2010 Nonprofit Breakfast Forum Series for Non-profit Board and Staff Members will be held at Pierson Auditorium, UMKC University Center, 5000 Rockhill Road, Kansas City, MO.

See http://bloch.umkc.edu/mwcnl/programs/Bfast%20Forum/2009-2010/02-22-10.htm for more information and on-line registration.

2/19/2010

Manual Career Technical Center hosts regional SkillsUSA competition

Nineteen Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) students will compete with 400 regional participants in the SkillsUSA West District Skill and Leadership Conference beginning at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 23.

This year, KCMSD plays host to competitors from a six-county area in the Kansas City region. All events are scheduled at the Metropolitan Community College-Business & Technology Campus, 1775 Universal Ave., Kansas City, MO 64120.

East High senior Jorge Negrete, last year’s third place winner in the Plumbing competition, hopes to take first this time. He comes with plenty of construction experience: his father owns a remodeling business, and Negrete plans to take over the family business after completing his education.

Students will compete in two areas: Construction Technology and Leadership & Action Skills. Expect to find exciting demos automated manufacturing, architectural drafting, computer technology and more. The leadership segment highlights presentation and job skills, plus the SkillsUSA Quiz Bowl, coordinated by KCMSD’s Textbook Coordinator, Thomas Sullivan.

2/22/2010

Midwest Research Institute unveils Paseo Academy’s 2010 creation at robotics open house

Midwest Research Institute (MRI), sponsor of the robotics team “Pasiliens” of Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts, will host a robotics open house from 3 to 5 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 22. Features include the Paseo team, Pasiliens, a demo with its robot built for regional competition in March, and a meet-and-greet with the corporate sponsors.

The open house will be held at MRI’s Mag Auditorium, 425 Volker Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64110. The schedule is as follows: refreshments with meet-and-greet at 3 p.m.; remarks and unveiling at 3:15 p.m.; demonstration and opportunities to drive the robot from 3:45-5 p.m. Media is welcome.

2/19/2010

Garfield Elementary students learn “secrets” of the writers’ craft

Local author Grace LaJoy visited with Garfield Elementary students on Feb. 17 to share snapshots of her journey, from foster care to gifted student to successful author.

“I was so unsure of myself, I could never believe they put me in a gifted program,” LaJoy said, relating a middle school memory of coming in late one day and being surprised with the news when she found out her seat had been taken.

“Who loves to write poetry?” she asked yesterday’s class. A full third of the class raises hands. An early work of LaJoy’s was accidentally picked up by a teacher, who declared her an “inspired writer.” LaJoy clearly recalls the delight she felt, and when asked by a student, “What makes you happiest in life?” she still replies, “When someone tells me I have written a great piece.” This is one person living out her childhood dreams.

The secret of her perseverance? Her ability to take joy in life and in her craft despite inner insecurities and external difficulties. Students fascinated by this concept asked about life in foster care, maintaining ties with separated siblings and absent parents, and her family today. They were not only curious about the facts of her life, but the “why?” of her success.

“What inspired you most?” was a question put to LaJoy. “Can I give an honest answer, she replies, and then says simply, “God.” LaJoy spoke of a life innately good, even though living through an experience of abandonment and hunger, both physical and psychological. She said she had the faith that she should go on creating, although she had no belief in her own abilities. “My songs came to me in my dreams,” she said, as she spoke of published lyrics she had provided to a songwriter friend. “I wake up, write until it’s finished, and then I’m done.”

LaJoy provided all with her books “A Gifted Child in Foster Care: A Story of Resilience,” complete with participant and teacher workbook, as well as autographing copies of “Diversity in our Schools” for students.

2/18/2010

District agriculture students to commemorate National FFA Week

Agriculture students in the Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) will participate in a series of activities to commemorate the 2010 National Future Farmers of America (FFA) Week – Feb. 20-27, 2010.

The activities include:

Monday, Feb. 22 – Technical Agriculture Skills Day
Tuesday, Feb. 23 – Blue and Gold Day
Wednesday, Feb. 24 - FFA Spirit Day
Thursday, Feb. 25 – Fun and Safety Day
Friday, Feb. 26 - Invitational Faculty Breakfast

FFA chapters from across the nation regularly conduct activities each February to celebrate the scope and diversity of the agriculture industry. More information can be obtained by visiting www.ffa.org .

2/19/2010

Gladstone Academy to host a family math night to prep for annual state tests

Gladstone Academy will open its doors to students and their families Thursday, Feb. 25 to host “Math is “Awe-sum,” a fun-filled night of Math measurement activities for students and parents. The event will be from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the school, 335 N. Elmwood, Kansas City, MO 64123.

The planned activities are designed to help students boost their MAP scores. Each grade level has created a couple of “awe-sum” activities. The information the students will receive will be helpful at home as well; they will leave with some different math tools and activities for practice at home. Dinner will be served.

2/17/2010

Garfield Elementary is set to “Read from the Start”

Parents and community members are invited to the kick-off meeting of “Read from the Start” by the Missouri Humanities Council, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, Feb. 16 and 18. The sessions are designed to introduce parents to the joys of storytelling and reading to young children. Light refreshments and childcare will be provided.

Parents can expect to learn about the role of language and stories in the early years, as well as come away with techniques to continue story exploration. All will receive a selection of seven free children’s books to keep, plus two clock hours towards their parental involvement goals.

“Read from the Start” is based on the conviction that parents are children's first and most influential teachers. If parents take pleasure in books, that pleasure will be conveyed to the child. Infants are awesome learners, as well as school age children.

The Local Investment Commission (LINC) sponsors the presentations.

2/16/2010

Trailwoods Elementary students hit the slopes

Click here to view a slideshow of photos of a trip by seventh and eighth-grade students at Trailwoods Elementary to learn about skiing.

2/12/2010

President responds to reflections from East High students

Tenth-grade English and Read 180 students at East High School reached out, and the office of U.S. President Barack Obama has reached back.

In September, students of Cheryl T. Madrigal watched a speech by the president and wrote a personal reflection that required them to follow the writing process. The final copies of their hard work were mailed to the White House.

On Feb. 9, a package arrived at East High complete with the White House seal. Inside was a letter, complete with the president’s handwritten signature, to the students. Also included were an 8-by-10 inch autographed picture of President Obama, and a smaller card of their dog, Bo, with his pedigree info on the back.

“The students were in shock and many actually believed I had forged the whole thing. It was difficult for them to believe that the President of the United States actually thought enough of them to respond,” said Madrigal. “Each student received a copy of the letter. It was a true word of encouragement delivered at the right time.”

2/16/2010

Troost Elementary kindergartners celebrate 100th day milestone

Kindergarten students at Troost Elementary School celebrated 100 days of kindergarten on Feb. 9.

As part of the celebration, students made 100-day hats with 100 decorations, had a 100 numbers search, made a snack bag with 100 pieces, and created a 100-bead necklace.

Since the beginning of the year the Troost kindergarteners have counted the days of school in a ones, tens, and hundreds chart, and have also filled out a pattern hundreds chart.

“Wow, one hundred days of kindergarten! It seems like only yesterday it was the students’ first day of school,” said Sharon Adams of Troost.

2/16/2010

Rogers Elementary students and staff celebrate Valentine's Day with a fundraiser

Below are pictures from the delivery of special valentines at Rogers Elementary Feb. 11. The valentines are a fundraiser for school activities.

2/16/2010

Community group to donate furniture to King Elementary

The Centurions, a community group, is extending more than good wishes to students and staff at Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School. The community partner has graciously offered initiate a beautification project at the inner-city school. The group’s plan includes:

Painting kindergarten and first-grade classrooms
Donating desks and chairs to kindergarten and first-grade classrooms
Donating furniture and equipment to the school’s Parent Resource Room.

“The Centurions have chosen to reach out to our students, and we’re pleased to reach back,” said Yvette Hayes, principal.

2/16/2010

Additional Right Sizing public forum scheduled

A fifth public forum for the Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) “Right Sizing the District” effort has been set for 10:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 20, at J.A. Rogers Elementary, 6400 E. 23^rd St., Kansas City, MO.

This fifth meeting will close a week-long effort to interact with the community on this important issue. The forums are designed to give parents and community stakeholders information about the schools located in their particular geographic region.

The original FOUR forums are as follows:

· Tuesday, Feb. 16 – Northeast Elementary School, 4904 Independence Ave. (6:30 to 8:30 p.m.)
(Askew, East, Fairview, Garfield, Gladstone, James, McCoy, Northeast Elementary, Northeast HS, Pitcher, Rogers, Scarritt, TAPC, Trailwoods, West Rock Creek, Whittier, Woodland)

· Wednesday, Feb. 17 – M.L. King Elementary School, 4201 –A Indiana (6:30 to 8:30 p.m.)
(Carver, Central HS, Central Middle, Delano, Faxon Montessori, Franklin, King, Ladd, Melcher, Moore, Richardson, Weeks)

· Thursday, Feb. 18 – Paseo Academy, 4747 Flora (6:30 to 8:30 p.m.)

(ACE, Ace 6^th Grade, ACE Lower, Banneker, Holliday, KCMSA, Knotts, Paige, Paseo, Pinkerton, Troost)

· Friday, Feb. 19 – Foreign Language Academy, 3450 Warwick (6:30 to 8:30 p.m.)

(Attucks, Border Star, Douglas, Foreign Language Academy, Garcia, Hartman, Lincoln College Prep, Lincoln Middle, Longan, Longfellow, Manual, Phillips, Southwest, Swinney, Westport, Westport Middle, Wheatley)

These important meetings will allow the public to view key data and provide direct input as the District seeks to improve student achievement by reducing the size of the district and redeploying key personnel and material resources.

2/16/2010

East High students learn their agriculture curriculum covers every bloomin’ thing

Students at East High’s Agriculture Science II took part working at hands-on projects in floral arranging and design in honor of Valentine’s Day. One of the hottest curriculums in the country today, agriculture opens students up to many green (and profitable) career possibilities.

After instruction in the art of floral arrangement, students designed and assembled a bud vase arrangement using carnations, baby’s breath and leather leaf. Afterwards, they took it home to keep or give away just in time for a Valentine’s Day celebration.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, florists earn from $23,200 to $25,160 annually. East High School’s agriculture program is coordinated through Manual Career Technical Center. Students also receive help with career planning, postsecondary preparation, and internships while attending East High School.

2/16/2010

Right-Sizing Public Forum DATES

A series of four community forums will take place throughout the district next week to gather input on school closures. The forums will be designed to give parents and community stakeholders information about the schools located in their particular geographic region.

The FOUR forums will be as follows:

· Thursday, Feb. 18 – Paseo Academy, 4747 Flora (6:30 to 8:30 p.m.)

(ACE, Ace 6^th Grade, ACE Lower, Banneker, Holliday, KCMSA, Knotts, Paige, Paseo, Pinkerton, Troost)

· Friday, Feb. 19 – Foreign Language Academy, 3450 Warwick (6:30 to 8:30 p.m.)

“Student achievement is a community goal,” said Superintendent Dr. John Covington. “As we reduce the number of schools in our district, we will continue to assess how we’ll use our remaining resources to benefit all students. We look forward to working directly with our families to shape a plan in the best interest of our young people.”

2/14/2010

Right-Sizing Proposal

The Right-Sizing Proposal was presented by Superintendent Dr. John Covington and the leadership team at a special Board of Education meeting on Feb. 13, 2010.

Click Here to see the proposal.

2/13/2010

Proposed School Status for Right-Sizing Plan

This is a list of proposed school sites under the Right-Sizing plan.

Click here to see the list

2/13/2010

Manual Tech leads the way in prepping students for success

Manual Career Technical Center is gearing up for National Career & Technical Month with guided tours for prospective students from district high schools and an Open House scheduled for Feb. 11.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 18 of the 20 fastest growing occupations within the next decade will require career and technical education.

The District offers programs these types of programs at its local high schools as well as Manual Tech:

Business - Computer Applications, Desktop Publishing, Multimedia, Business Technology, Supervised Business Experience, Accounting, IT Essentials, Marketing, Entrepreneurship and Supervised Marketing Experience.
Family and Consumer Science - Early Care & Education, Exploring Family and Consumer Sciences, Family/Consumer Resource Management, Family & Individual Health, Family Living and Parenthood, Fashion and Costume Design, Housing Environments and Design, Nutrition and Wellness, ProStart I, World Foods, Career & Family Leadership, Child Development Care & Guidance, Intermediate Child Development Care & Guidance, Clothing & Textiles.
Project Lead the Way classes include Gateway to Technology, Introduction to Engineering Design and Principles of Engineering.
Agriculture and Natural Resources at East High School points the way to both high tech and green careers.

MCTC also offers comprehensive programs in Auto Collision, Automotive Technology, Child Care, Construction Technology, Cosmetology Culinary Arts, Health Care, Food Science and Technology, Greenhouse Operations and Management, Landscaping and Small Animal Science. Digital Television Production and Fashion and Costume Design are offered at Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts.

Exploratory classes are also provided in AgriScience at East High School and Introduction to Construction Technology at Northeast High School. All students are invited to participate in career and technical student organizations that add value to their career preparation. These include SkillsUSA, FFA (Future Farmers of America), FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America), and FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America).

2/10/2010

Faxon Montessori fundraisers bring in big bucks

On Feb. 11, Red Cross representatives rewarded young Faxon Montessori fundraisers with a giant honorary check in appreciation for the $618 the school donated to the earthquake relief fund for Haiti. School nurse Leslie Mathews and parent liaison Kellie Jones organized events at Faxon, with the help of early childhood teacher Lessie Merritt.

The total raised by District students adds up to over $4,500 at this point.

2/12/2010

Book club brings new horizons for high school students

East and Central high schools will host a three-part reading and discussion series called the “Great Stories CLUB” to culminate with a webcast at 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 29. The library is one of 265 libraries nationwide receiving a grant from the American Library Association (ALA) to host this series.

Students from each school will meet once a month to discuss one of three books at their respective libraries. School librarians Mary Thompson, Michelle Lowe, and Carolyn Hammond are leading the discussions of the book at each session. In addition, all participating students have a chance to contribute reviews to the Kansas City Public Library’s Teen Blog.

Both schools are receiving programming resources as well as copies of the following books for distribution to teen participants:

· The Afterlife by Gary Soto (Harcourt, 2005)

· Rules of Survival by Nancy Werlin (Speak, 2008)

· One of Those Hideous Books Where the Mother Dies by Sonya Sones (Simon & Schuster, 2005)

The Great Stories CLUB (Connecting Libraries, Underserved Teens and Books) is a book discussion program created to provide teens with an opportunity to read and discuss books that are relevant to the challenges in their lives. The titles selected for the program focus on the theme new horizons.

The program was developed by the ALA Public Programs Office (PPO) and Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA). Funding was provided for this program by Oprah’s Angel Network. Local support for the series is provided by The Kansas City Public Library.

2/11/2010

Satchel Paige Elementary students hold ‘care kit’ drive to aid Haiti earthquake victims

Students and staff of Satchel Paige Elementary completed a successful two-week “care kit” drive for earthquake victims in Haiti. Items included were toothbrushes, bars of soap, shampoo, combs, wash cloths, hand towels, toothpaste, bandages, hand sanitizer, zip lock bags, and Clorox wipes.

“The generosity displayed has made it possible for us to create and deliver multiple ‘care kits’ to the Heart to Heart International organization,” Principal James Jenkins said. “It’s a way the students felt we can really help with the relief efforts in Haiti.”

2/11/2010

Delano School librarian awarded top Boy Scout honor

Karen Shelton, librarian at Delano School, one of eight recipients of this year’s distinguished Boy Scout Award of Merit, was honored at a special dinner on Feb. 6. The Award of Merit is conferred on those who have given exceptional service to the Scouting program.

Shelton has worked with Delano’s Boy Scout Troop 1012 for the past 10 years, striving to bring the full Scouting program to students.

“Boy Scouts teach many of the same skills that we are trying to teach our students,” Shelton said. “The Scout law pretty much sums up what we are about.”

The Scout pledge is as follows: “On my Honor I promise to do my best to do my duty … to help other people at all times, and to obey the Scout law. To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake and morally straight.”

In conjunction with the Rotary Club and Troop 10 from Prairie Village, Shelton has provided Delano youth activities such as Summer Camp, the DeLano Day camp, and our Weekly scout meetings. She also spearheaded Venture Crew 2012 to provide the girls with a similar program.

2/11/2010

Local author celebrates Black History Month at Garfield Elementary

Local author Grace LaJoy celebrates Black History Month with Garfield Elementary fifth graders at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 17. LaJoy will read works of her poetry to the class then answer questions.

LaJoy has authored “A Gifted Child in Foster Care: A Story of Resilience,” complete with participant workbook, and “Diversity in our Schools.”

2/11/2010

Paseo Academy to celebrate African-American history with annual film festival

Paseo Academy of the Fine and Performing Arts will present the annual Paseo Academy Black History Month Film Festival from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19. The festival will take place in the Recital Hall at the school, 4747 Flora, Kansas City, MO.

Students in Stinson McClendon’s digital television production classes will be showing films they produced in honor of Black History Month. There will be a short question and answer segment with each filmmaker. This event is free to the public with parking on the southwest side of the school.

2/10/2010

Manual Tech students among participants in special legislative work day

Three students and three staff members from Manual Career Technical Center were among a group of career and technical student organizations that visited Missouri’s capital on Feb. 10 to participate in the Missouri Association of Career & Technical Education Legislative Day.

Students and staff networked with legislators and visited Governor Jay Nixon’s office for the presentation of a proclamation recognizing Career and Technical Education Month and career and technical student organizations.

Representing SkillsUSA from Manual Career Technical Center are students Vandasha Carter, Tiera Delaney, and Miyata Finley; instructors Jonathan Ewing and Sarah Gay, and principal Tom Levin.

2/10/2010

School board gets session on the “Make a Splash” swim program for urban kids

Representatives of the Kansas City “Make a Splash” initiative and the U.S. Swimming Foundation will be presenting to the Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) School Board at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 10. The city Parks and Recreation Department, in collaboration with many other organizations, is preparing a two-year campaign to raise $1 million to teach 25,000 youth to swim. Lessons would be provided free or at a reduced rate.

The need for this program is overwhelming,” said Mark Bowland, the manager of community services for the parks department. “We’ve got to break this cycle that creates generations of children and parents that do not know how to swim.”

Statistics paint a bleak picture for minorities and swimming. Sixty percent of African-American children don’t know how to swim. Drowning is the second-leading cause of death among children ages 1 to 14. For every child who drowns, five are hospitalized for almost drowning.

The Kansas City “Make a Splash” collaborative has designed a plan to do something about the problem. The Parks and Recreation Department, in collaboration with many other organizations, is preparing its campaign and fundraiser to provide two series of swimming lessons of eight hours each to 25,000 second-grade boys and girls. The program is planned to expand to reach youth up to the age of 14. Each lesson consists of eight one-hour sessions, the minimum deemed necessary for parents to feel their child will be safer in the water.

In addition, swimming has many psychological and health benefits: it boosts self-esteem, is an activity in which physically challenged and obese children may participate, and can be used to teach a healthier lifestyle to the entire family. Young adults and teens may be able to serve as swim teachers and lifeguards in the program scheduled for kick-off this June.

People will be able to make donations at a Web site to launch soon. The coalition is requesting a $250,000 grant from the Health Care Foundation of Greater Kansas City. A fund also is being established at the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation, where donations will be accepted by the 501©3 “Make a Splash.” Bowland wants people to know that just a $20 donation from an individual is enough to pay for a kid to learn to swim. The Black Community Fund has pledged $5,000.

The collaboration includes the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City, the YMCA of Greater Kansas City, Guadalupe Centers Inc., the Kansas City, Missouri School District, the local chapter of the American Red Cross and the Kansas City Sports Commission. Lessons will be offered at 10 pools in the Kansas City area, including KCMSD, the parks department, the Boys & Girls Clubs and the YMCA.

2/9/2010

Rogers Elementary SAC hosts Valentine fundraiser

The School Advisory Committee (SAC) at J.A. Rogers Elementary is hosting a Valentine fundraiser to fund its end-of-year picnic and Field Day.

The treats will be delivered to schools on Feb. 11. For more information, call (816) 418-4770.

2/9/2010

Parents: Attend a class on stress management and possibly earn cash!

2/5/2010

Urban League to host Minority Scholarship Fair on Feb. 20

2/9/2010

Red Cross to present young Faxon Montessori fundraisers with honorary check

Faxon Montessori will recognize students and staff who participated in the Red Cross earthquake relief fundraiser at 2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 11. Red Cross will present Faxon Montessori with a giant commemorative check representing the $618 raised for Haiti by the school.

School nurse Leslie Mathews and parent liaison Kellie Jones organized events at Faxon, with the help of early childhood teacher Lessie Merritt.

The total raised by District students adds up to more than $4,000 at this point.

2/9/2010

Garfield Elementary works to get families reading

Garfield Elementary will introduce the joy of storytelling and reading to parents and young children during a pair of events from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Feb. 16 and Feb. 18 at the school. The event is part of the “Get Missouri Families Reading!” effort.

Light refreshments and child care will be provided. Families will learn about the role of language and stories in the early years of a child’s life. Learn techniques to continue story exploration. Receive a selection of seven free children’s books to keep. Receive two clock hours credit. To RSVP, call Rosisella Villegas at (816) 418-3627.

2/9/2010

M.L. King Elementary raises $700 as they help “Bring CHANGE to Haiti”

M.L. King Elementary has finished the “Bring CHANGE to Haiti fundraiser,” raising more than $700 to give to the American Red Cross in support of the disaster relief in Haiti.

Brittany Hosack's class ran the fundraiser for the week by collecting money and counting money, then graphing the results. They also had the opportunity to learn about earthquakes, study the history of Haiti, as well as the state of Haiti now. Students wrote about their feelings towards their project on Haiti this week.

The class will be featured in the Kansas City Star with pictures of them in action counting. Students discuss how the money and statements and this project has affected them and their learning. Watch for the article in the paper this coming Wednesday in the Kansas City Star’s Neighborhood News section!

District students and staff have raised $4,000 for the Haiti relief fund so far. More fundraisers are underway at various schools.

2/9/2010

Kiwanis honors Carver Elementary Terrific Kids

Carver Elementary celebrates its Kiwanis Terrific Kids from 10:30 to 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 11. Kindergarten through second-grade students have achieved goals developed in conjunction with their classroom teachers that include demonstrating a positive attitude, good character and responsible citizenship. Those who have achieved their goals will be rewarded with a certificate and supply bag.

Terrific Kids is a student recognition program that promotes character development, self-esteem, and perseverance. Students work with their classroom teacher and set objectives to improve behavior, peer relationships, attendance, and schoolwork.

At the end of a designated time period, all students who achieved their goals are recognized as Terrific Kids. Recognition includes being pinned as a Terrific Kid; a pizza, ice cream, or other food-themed party; and presentation of certificates, and other giveaways.

2/8/2010

Metro Sports to begin accepting applications for CityBall Scholarship

During their Feb. 5 broadcast of the Game of the Week featuring Central-Lincoln Prep, Metro Sports will announce that it will be accepting applications for the CityBall Scholarship Fund.

"The mission of the CityBall Scholarship is simple, send as many KC-area kids to summer activity camps as possible," said Stephen Spiegel, the Emmy-winning producer of CityBall, a look into the challenges faced by Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) student-athletes.

Kids from K-12 are eligible to apply for the application, which you can find by going to, www.cityballmovie.com and fill out their online application form or download a hardcopy form, fill it out and send it to us by US mail.

Soon after the deadline (May 1, 2010), the CityBall Advisory Council, made up of members from Metro Sports and the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation, will decide who receives the award or awards.

Recipients will be notified by late May.

2/5/2010

Garcia Elementary conducts annual candy bar fundraiser

Garcia Elementary is conducting its annual candy bar fundraiser to raise money to support field trips and other school programs.

To contribute or learn more about this worthwhile event, please contact the school at (816) 418-8725.

2/5/2010

Delano school librarian awarded top Boy Scout honor

Karen Shelton, librarian at Delano School, one of eight recipients of this year’s distinguished Boy Scout Award of Merit, will be honored at a special dinner Saturday, Feb. 6 at 6:15 p.m.

The Award of Merit, conferred on those who have given exceptional Service to the Scouting program, will be given to Shelton at the Pioneer Trails district recognition ceremony at Colonial Presbyterian Church, 9500 Wornall, Kansas City, MO 64114.

Shelton has worked with Delano’s Boy Scout Troop 1012 for the last 10 years, striving to bring the full Scouting program to students.

“Boy Scouts teach many of the same skills that we are trying to teach our students. The Scout law pretty much sums up what we are about,” she said.

The Boy Scout District Award of Merit is given to those individuals that have given exceptional Service to the Scouting program.

2/5/2010

Longan French Magnet volunteers to be honored by mayor

Barbers, beauticians and volunteers who worked to provide free haircuts to Longan French Magnet School students in December will be honored by Kansas City Mayor Mark Funkhouser at 3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 11. A proclamation by the City Council will be presented to acknowledge all who took part in providing over 200 haircuts. The service was organized by District afterschool partner Local Investment Commission (LINC).

On Dec. 21 more than 16 barbers and beauticians donated their time on their free time to help students look their best for the holidays. The event was organized by LINC site coordinator Jamie Braden in conjunction with the Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD). An estimated 200 haircuts were provided.

Participating businesses included: Rayz ‘R’ Line; Saluzzi’s Shears; New Urban Barber & Beauty; Smart Style; Sportmans House of Coiffures; Doll-Face; Box of Style; Alley Cat Style; Rope's Barbershop; Minc Style Center.

The presentation of the City Council special resolution will take place at its meeting at City Hall, 414 E. 12^th St., Kansas City, MO 64106.

2/5/2010

East High JROTC completes successful blood drive

On Jan. 25, the Junior Reserves Officers Training Corps (JROTC) of East High conducted a blood drive in coordination with the American Red Cross, collecting 28 productive units of blood. The Red Cross staff was most impressed with the organization and generosity of the East High Community.

The drive was a culmination of planning and coordination which began before Christmas. Cadets signed up their fellow students and staff as donors, planned the schedule for converting the gym into a donation center, posted signs, and scheduled volunteer workers. The day of the drive, cadets met the Red Cross staff at 6:30 a.m. to assist in moving equipment and setting up the donation site. Throughout the day cadets manned the reception area, the canteen and assisted where needed as well as donating themselves.

2/5/2010

Troost students launch Great American Spell Check fundraiser

Troost Elementary students are fundraising through the innovative—and educational—Great American Spell Check beginning Jan. 29. The event culminates Friday, Feb. 5 with a spelling bee contest.

Each grade level was given a list of words that were grade level appropriate. Students collected pledges to see how many words they will be able to spell from a list of 50 words. Pledge cards have gone out and the proceeds will go to help purchase classroom supplies at Troost.

The Great American Spellcheck is a benefit of enrollment in the Scripps National Spelling Bee program. All funds raised benefits Troost Elementary, involve no students knocking on the doors of strangers and are rooted in academics. See http://www.spellingbee.com/enrollment for more information.

2/5/2010

District JROTC team places first in regional finance competition

Central High’s JROTC (Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps) team placed first in the Kansas City Secondary I region of the Missouri Stock Market Game. Maj. Roger Stoll utilizes the game as a supplement to the personal finance curriculum offered in the District-wide JROTC program.

The Stock Market Game™ (SMG™) is a 10-week Internet educational simulation that encourages students to learn about stock markets and the American economic system. Participants develop skills in personal finance, economics, math, language arts, social studies, business education, and technology while building and maintaining a stock portfolio. Teams use the Internet to follow their portfolios, research stocks, study how the financial markets work, enter trades with real time prices, manage budgets, and see their daily regional and state rankings as they compete with 20 –30 teams in their region. Regions are set using grade level and geographic locations.

2/4/2010

Business partner rewards Westport High’s top students

When QC Holdings branch manager Latoya Lavalois presented $25 Wal-Mart gift cards to Westport High achievers on Thursday, Feb. 4, she stated “Our office wanted to help those who are doing all they can to succeed. Specifically, we wanted to contribute to high school students, and Westport really impressed us.”

Principal Harold Hawkins also attended the special gathering to congratulate 12 students at Westport High for their academic achievement:

Senior

Caviar Keys

Katheryn Morales

Dominique Williams

Junior

Johnisha Black

Danielle Hurt

Antonia Martin

Sophomore

Ivan Macias

Dajuan McClanahan

Chandra Swatosh

Freshman

Dalia Carbajal

Joshua Lockhart

Sabrina Norris

Principal Harold Hawkins also attended the special gathering to congratulate 12 students at Westport High for their academic achievement:

Senior

Caviar Keys

Katheryn Morales

Dominique Williams

Junior

Johnisha Black

Danielle Hurt

Antonia Martin

Sophomore

Ivan Macias

Dajuan McClanahan

Chandra Swatosh

Freshman

Dalia Carbajal

Joshua Lockhart

Sabrina Norris

2/4/2010

Esoke African dance clinic at Weeks Early Learning Center offers a new take on traditional arts

Beginning Jan. 19, young scholars at Mary Harmon Weeks Early Learning Center have participated in the Esoke African Drum and Dance African clinic, offered from 4 to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through March 10. The eight-week course provides afterschool lessons in traditional performing arts to meet the needs of the fullest range of diversities.

Directed by Yaminah Muhammad, the trans-cultural Esoke Cultural Arts Center promotes theatre for all ages that is educational and entertaining, embracing issues contemporary to today’s society.

2/2/2010

Foreign Language Academy students to spend Saturdays learning math and science

The science classes of Wanda Morales, a teacher at Foreign Language Academy, have willingly enrolled in Saturday Academy at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), set to begin Saturday, Feb. 6, 2010. The enrichment program strengthens math and science skills, helping students to recognize and develop their potential in not only mathematics and the sciences, but in reading and test-taking as well.

Sessions are free, totally educational, and run concurrent to the school year. It has motivated middle school students in the Kansas City metropolitan area to careers in science and mathematics. The program is funded by the UMKC School of Medicine and a R. A. Long Foundation grant.

2/3/2010

Deadline to express interest for Strategic Planning Action Teams is Feb. 8

The deadline for community members seeking to participate in the Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) strategic planning effort is Feb. 8.

The District is seeking more than 500 individuals to participate on the Strategic Planning Action Teams. Community members will be responsible for developing specific strategies for improving areas such as curriculum, student safety, assessment and achievement, customer service, family participation, and early childhood education.

Community members interested in participation may visit www.kcmsd.net and download an interest form. Once completed, the forms may be e-mailed to strategicplanning@kcmsd.net, faxed to (816) 418-7550 or mailed to the District offices – 1211 McGee St., Kansas City, MO 64106 Attn: Public Relations.

The Action Teams will provide tactical guidance to ideas and goals formulated by a community-led 60-person Core Team in December 2009. Once complete, Superintendent John Covington will ask the School Board to adopt the finalized plan as official policy.

Again, the deadline to submit an Action Team interest form is Feb. 8.

2/3/2010

Thirty District students join the Health Sciences Acceleration Academy

At a reception on Jan. 26, the Health Sciences Acceleration Academy (HSAA) welcomed 30 Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) 10th graders and their families to the unique program.

The program provides students from the Health Sciences Small Learning Communities at East and Northeast high schools with the opportunity to take classes at the Metropolitan Community College-Penn Valley Health Institute. Through early college scholarships, provided by PREP-KC, these students will learn about career pathways in health sciences and will earn college credit while they complete high school. The 30 students participating in the HSAA were selected from 120 applications received for the pilot program.

The idea of college can become a reality for the high school students and for their families, friends, and neighbors. Principal Thomas Herrera of East High School, noted this program is not only benefiting these 30 students, it is also creating a stronger school-wide interest in attending college. “Students are coming up to me every day asking, ‘How do I get into the Health Sciences Academy?’”

The HSAA is a partnership between PREP-KC, Metropolitan Community College-Penn Valley, and the Kansas City, Missouri School District, and is designed to prepare students for post-secondary education and careers in health sciences.

2/3/2010

Faxon Montessori and Gladstone Elementary raise over $1,100 for Haiti

Faxon Montessori and Gladstone Elementary each held week-long fundraisers for Haiti earthquake victims from Jan. 25-29. Students, staff and communities participated for a total $602 at Faxon and $581 at Gladstone.

School nurse Leslie Mathews and parent liaison Kellie Jones organized events at Faxon, with the help of early childhood teacher Lessie Merritt. The American Red Cross will present the students with an oversized check which they may display at the school.

“We’re so proud of our Faxon staff and families. To date, they have raised over $1,600 for charity,” Faxon Principal Gordon Way said.

Seventh and eighth grade social studies students put together the fund drive at Gladstone, raising $581.

These additional funds bring the District total to well over $3,500 for Haiti.

2/3/2010

Milton Moore Elementary receives $2,000 corporate donation

Business partner Assurant Employee Benefits selected Milton Moore Elementary as one of 48 recipients of a special $2,000 corporate donation. Assurant’s community involvement committee is comprised of employees who review all contribution requests

2/3/2010

Youth Engage in 1st School District Candidate Forum

2/2/2010

Free tax preparation help offered to Gladstone Elementary families

Gladstone Elementary School is pairing up with the Local Investment Commission (LINC) Caring Communities to offer free tax preparation to its families from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 10. The service will be provided in the school library.

Required documents include: Individual social security numbers,W-2s, childcare provider name, bank routing and account information, name, address, and phone number of landlord.

2/2/2010

Milton Moore Huskies basketball team earns national ranking

You could say that the fourth graders attending Milton Moore Elementary School are preparing for the day when they will be playing in the Interscholastic League. The team has been ranked No. 13 in the country through their basketball league.

Students playing on the team, coached by Sue Horning, must have at least a 2.0 grade point average as well as zero discipline problems.

2/2/2010

Kudos to Ricky Hollis–Southeast Knight of the Week

Ricky Hollis holds the respect of both students and faculty, and was the choice for Southeast’s Knight of the Week on Jan. 22. His reputation of being respectful, staying on task, and saying what he means and mean what he is saying has given him the label of being a "natural born leader."

The dictionary defines a natural born leader as having a specified innate character or ability by nature. Hollis walks with a quiet yet strong stride down the halls of Southeast High. When questioned about the perception many have of his abilities, he modestly replies that his no nonsense, strong family involvement is responsible for his success as a student. Family members have high expectations and require that he meet them, so every subject is approached with vigor and confidence.

After graduation, Hollis intends to pursue postsecondary education at a junior college, to be completed at a four-year institution. “Stay in school, do your work, don't bend under peer pressure," is the solid advice coming from this young man on the straight and narrow path!

Hollis spends his spare time playing his favorite sport—basketball—and attending family events. Peers and teachers expect that basketball practice will pay off in a scholarship, and later a name brand team. However, this young man believes in having more than one option: he will pursue goals as a sports trainer or a business degree, with emphasis on owning a sporting goods store.

We salute you Ricky Hollis, Southeast Knight of the Week.

2/1/2010

Central Academy launches “Live, Thrive, Survive” campaign for Haiti

On Jan. 27, Central Academy launched a new initiative to support the Haiti earthquake victims called “Live, Thrive, and Survive.” Students, staff, and community members will work together to develop “Heart to Heart” care packages for victims. The school is seeking donations of new hand towels and washcloths, wide-tooth combs, small bottles of shampoo, individually wrapped toothbrushes, toothpaste, band-aids, bars of soap, and zipper seal bags.

All items will be assembled into care packages and sent to Heart to Heart International. Additionally, the school will be sponsoring an essay contest in three categories responding to the question “In the aftermath of the Haiti Earthquake, what does it mean to: 1) Live, 2) Thrive, or 3) Survive”. Students will choose one of the three areas and write an essay to be scored by community members and staff. The winning essay will be displayed at the school and prizes awarded!

2/1/2010

The Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) begins the second semester with Parent-Teacher Conferences from 1:30 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 4. Our focus is the academic success of all students, but we can’t do it without our parents.

In addition to your scholar’s progress and schedule, you can expect to discuss other important items, such as school uniform policies, bell times, parking safety, daily homework, and more. Please bring your questions regarding any other items of concern.

Be sure to ask about your School Advisory Committee (SAC). We invite all parents to look for opportunities to become involved with their schools as well as their scholar’s progress.

2/1/2010

Pinkerton Elementary students raise $400 to benefit earthquake victims

Students at Pinkerton Elementary have raised $400 to benefit victims of the earthquake in Haiti. The school plans to donate the funds to the Red Cross this week.

This donation will be the latest from Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) students. To date, students have raised nearly $2,250 to help those in Haiti through a variety of special clothing days, the collection of change, and other activities.

2/1/2010

District kicks off National Career & Technical Month with Job Shadow Day

Twenty-seven Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) high school students are prepared with questions and resumes as they look forward to National Job Shadow Day on Tuesday, Feb. 2. The students will be following resident professionals and hiring officials for a full day to see what a “dream career” is like in real life.

Tuesday will see aspiring leaders in business, the arts, and science careers off to their first day of observational work. Their assigned professionals are associates at BalancePoint, Barkley Advertising, Brockton Creative Group, City of Kansas City, Kansas City Star, Mazuma Credit Union, Optimal Health Center, T2, University of Kansas Medical Center, and Vedros Photography.

Job Shadow 2010 is a year-long national effort to enrich the lives of students by acquainting them with the world of work through on-the-job experiences and a carefully crafted school curriculum that ties academics to the workplace.

“We encourage young people to explore their futures through career awareness and mentoring opportunities,” said Tineka Fips, College and Career Specialist. “They learn about great jobs but most of all, they will form relationships to encourage them to pursue the education that will make these careers possible.”

National Job Shadow includes America’s Promise, Junior Achievement, the U.S. Department of Education, and the U.S. Department of Labor.

2/1/2010

Southwest Early College Campus recognized by UMKC Curators at special luncheon

Three 10th graders of the Southwest Early College Campus (SWECC) represented the school at the University of Missouri Board of Curators’ honorary luncheon at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) on Jan. 29. SWECC was recognized for excellence and programming geared for urban minority students, and reaching out to first generation college prospects. UMKC’s own Institute for Urban Education was also recognized during the event.

Students and alumni of the District took center stage as keynote speakers, with all present as students and former students of principal Steven Scraggs.

2/1/2010

District counselor honored by Hispanic Collaborative

Congratulations go out to Gene Chavez, counselor at East High School, who was presented with the “2010 Award in Secondary Education” by the Greater Kansas City Hispanic Collaborative. At its annual education awards luncheon on Jan. 21, the collaborative recognized individuals and businesses for their outstanding commitment to the growing program.

See http://www.kchispanicnews.com/ for more information.

East High School is located at 1924 Van Brunt, Kansas City, MO 64127.

1/29/2010

Saturday school a success at James Elementary

Thirty-five students get a boost in their studies by attending Saturday School at James Elementary. The students are aided by seven teachers, who donate their time an effort to improve the lives of Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) students.

The program, begun in October 2009, prepares students for academics at the secondary and post-secondary level by giving them the extra help they need to be successful.

“All tutors are volunteers. The fact that our teachers volunteer their time speaks highly of the dedication and commitment of employees in the Kansas City Missouri School District,” Principal Joyce Jennings said.

1/29/2010

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