FUTURE STRONG
LETTER FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
Thirty years ago, I began my teaching career, filled with hope and excitement for the upcoming school year, eager to make a positive impact on the lives of my students Now, as I begin my 10th year leading the Grandview C-4 School District, I am still filled with those same feelings, ready to ensure all of our students are truly #FutureReady.
In my very first superintendent letter for the “School Report” in 2016, titled “The Future of Grandview Schools,” I envisioned the future we are now living. This year, we're once again in construction mode following the overwhelming community approval of our $50 million bond in 2024 The work currently underway will impact our students in ways previously not possible This summer, we completed renovations on two of our elementary schools and are set to begin work on the remaining three, ensuring a more positive learning environment for our students and staff every day We've also completed the construction of our new baseball/softball field for our student athletes, following last summer's refresh of our football field and track. Over the next few years, we will continue upgrading our aging facilities, maintaining our legacy of excellence, and propelling ourselves into the future Our schools will see more upgrades that reflect the pride embedded in our students, staff, and community
We've completed the first year of our new strategic plan and have already seen significant success, particularly in recruitment and retention Our dedicated bulldog staff continues to work tirelessly to ensure our students have what they need every day Our strategic plan will continue to guide us toward ensuring all students, staff, parents, and community members experience a true sense of belonging in order to feel they are valued members of our school community.
Amid these continual transformations, we're also proud of our academic progress Grandview has been on a literacy journey for several years now to ensure that all of our students are able to read on grade level, regardless of what grade level they may enroll in school Our staff will continue training in the “Science of Reading” to better identify and address any gaps our students may have Over the past four years, as a result of these efforts, we've seen growth in literacy and math rates And, we're just getting started. The dedication and hard work of our staff, students, and the collaborative support of our parents have driven this continued growth that will push us toward our new future
So what's next? The answer is simply, “more ” The new year continues to bring new possibilities and opportunities for success We will renovate, innovate, and educate. We have the absolute best students in the Kansas City metro, and I am excited to see all they can accomplish as we move into an undefined and limitless future The vision of the Grandview C-4 School District is to prepare all students to be future-ready, and I eagerly anticipate all we can achieve when we work together for the benefit of our students
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
“O ur district has a strong, unifie d staf f whose fo cuse d ef for ts to increase literacy are paying of f.”
While the weather still feels like summer, the start of a new year has always marked the beginning of fall to me.
This year brings new adventures on both the professional and personal fronts As Board President, I’m stepping into some new and exciting responsibilities And at home, it’s a milestone year our triplets are kicking off their senior year, and our youngest is officially starting high school
I’m truly inspired by the transformation in the schools and community I’ve witnessed since moving to Grandview 18 years ago Our district has a strong, unified staff whose focused efforts to increase literacy are paying off There have been numerous facility renovations and upgrades to our facilities that have vastly improved the look and function of our buildings and grounds.
So, what’s on the horizon for the 2025-26 school year?
We’ll celebrate Grandview Middle School receiving a statewide award from the PRiME Center for exceptional student growth over 3 years (in English Language Arts) We’ll enjoy a new baseball and softball facility, refreshed parking lots & roofs, renovated classroom spaces, and updated technology We’ll praise our staff and the positive culture that has been built here We’ll rejoice as our graduates head into the world with big dreams, solid plans, and amazing career opportunities straight out of high school
Then we’ll look forward to what new and great possibilities we can create next, because we are all-in on our students having the same opportunities and experiences as any other child in the Kansas City metro.
With gratitude,
Helen Ransom Board of Education, President
HONORING EXCELLENCE:
GC-4 EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR
�� Teacher of the Year: Jeremy Clarkson
A 13-year veteran math teacher at GHS who blends warmth, wisdom, and belief in every student’s potential.
�� Support Staff of the Year: Grace Herman
From GHS classroom to ISC secretary, Grace works behind the scenes to support everyone with empathy and efficiency
�� Volunteer of the Year: Jessica Moore
A literacy champion and weekly Story Time reader at High Grove who brings joy and growth to young learners.
�� Rising Star: Rebecca James
Conn-West music teacher who composed a new school song and transformed her classroom with creativity and core-integrated learning
�� Mentor of the Year: John Sonderman
A coach, leader, and trusted guide who uplifts educators with compassion and care
Volunteer of the Year: Jessica Moore
Suppor t Staff of the Year: Grace Herman
Teacher of the Year: Jeremy Clarkson
Rising Star: Rebecca James
Mentor of the Year: John Sonderman
P O I N T S O F P R I D E
e PRiME Center at Saint Louis University has recognized andview Middle School for exceptional student growth in glish Language Arts from 2022 to 2024 The school ranked 11th growth among high-poverty schools and 16th overall statewide. ngratulations to our students and staff on this outstanding hievement!
e lights were bright, the crowd was loud, and the pride was ong on May 16 as we celebrated the grand opening of our new andview High School Baseball Stadium. Fans enjoyed a special e-game ceremony, senior recognition, and a ceremonial first ch by Superintendent Dr Kenny Rodrequez It was a home run ght for the Bulldogs and the community!
ATE STANDOUTS: TRACK & FIELD BRINGS THE HEAT
e Grandview High School Track & Field teams made a powerful impression at the Missouri State Championships, with multiple top-eight finishes and a 5th place overall finish for the Girls Team
Individual & Team Highlights:
This spring marked a milestone for Grandview High School as we celebrated the first class of welding program graduates, and every student earned their American Welding Society certification That’s a 100% success rate! These skilled trailblazers were honored in a special April 26 ceremony hosted by T&L Welding
Before they even walked across the graduation stage, five Grandview High School students in the Advanced Manufacturing Pathway secured job offers as General Machinist Trainees with KCNSC/Honeywell Congratulations to:
Armando Mancia Guardado
Dennis Cartagena
Jason Correa Luna
Jesus Rocha
Kaden Daniels
These young professionals are stepping straight into meaningful careers
Grandview C-4 is named a Project Lead the Way Distinguished District for 2024–25! GC-4 is one of two districts in the state with this achievement This prestigious recognition honors our efforts to expand access, engagement, and achievement in hands-on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) learning It reflects the power of innovative instruction and student-centered programs throughout our schools.
Jordin McGee: �� Long Jump | �� 100m Dash | �� 100m Hurdles | �� 4x100m Relay
Girls 4x100m Relay – STATE CHAMPIONS
Jordin McGee, Amoya Clay, Lariah Tucker, Iyanna Pope
Alternates: Zion Robinson, Jada Smith
Boys 4x100m Relay – 4th Place
Jordan Smith, Danny Richardson, Cayden Cates, DeMoreay
Franklin
Alternates: Anthony Walker, Ramello Bowie
These Bulldogs sprinted, jumped, and raced their way to statewide success!
NEW LEADERS, SAME COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE
As we prepare for a strong start to 2025–26, we welcome new leaders who bring experience, vision, and passion to their roles:
Stacey Kahleel – Director of Special Services
Dr. Tiffany Reese – Coordinator of Special Services
Charley Buckner & Jered Shaw – Assistant Principals, GHS
Stefanie Forbes – Assistant Principal, GMS
Michelle Howren – Director of Student Services
Dr Kristen Scott – Principal, CAIR
O V I N G
I M P R
O U R S C H O O L S
D i s t r i c t U p g r a d e s a n d R e n o v a t i o n P r o j e c t s
DISTRICT- WIDE CLASSROOM RENOVATIONS & MORE
Thanks to the overwhelming support of our community, the Grandview C-4 School District is moving forward with over $50 million in improvements made possible by the 2024 No Tax Increase Bond Issue. These projects focus on enhancing safety, infrastructure, and learning environments all without increasing taxes for residents
Renovations are planned across the district to create modern, comfortable, and inspiring spaces for students and staff:
Belvidere & Conn-West Elementary will undergo summer 2025 renovations with upgraded finishes, enhanced HVAC systems, modernized restrooms, and refreshed cafeterias.
Grandview High School will see improvements to the Choir Room, Media Center, North Gym bleachers, and corridor graphics starting in fall 2025.
Butcher-Greene Elementary will be transformed with a full interior refresh, modern restrooms, and a more efficient cafeteria by August 2026.
High Grove, Meadowmere, and Martin City K-8 will begin updates in summer 2026, including stylish finishes, upgraded HVAC systems, and revitalized dining areas.
A new Training & Operations Center will break ground in August 2025, featuring a collaboration space, dry storage, and tech infrastructure to better serve the district.
Grandview Middle School is undergoing foundational inspections before any foundation repairs begin CAIR (Center for Alternative Instructional Resources) will be reimagined with sensory rooms and updated learning spaces tailored to student well-being
These exciting updates reflect our shared commitment to providing safe, functional, and future-ready schools. Stay tuned as progress unfolds!
TOP – Grandview High School Choir Room Renderings
BOTTOM– Grandview High School Media Center Renderings
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Carrier Route Presort Postal Customer
distributed to approximately 17,348 households and businesses within the Grandview and Martin City zip codes and displayed on the district’s website It is the official communication tool for parents, students, staff and patrons of Grandview Schools Any information, content and photos in this publication are property of the Grandview C-4 School District and are only to be used with permission of the GC-4 Public Relations Department
Grandview C-4 Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer and there shall be no discrimination on the basis of sex, race, creed, national origin, age or disability The school district is committed to providing appropriate educational services for children with disabilities in compliance with the Individuals of Disabilities Act The district is in compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the 1972 Educational Amendments and the Americans with Disabilities Act.