School Report Summer 2025

FUTURE STRONG GRANDVIEW C-4 SCHOOL REPORT

SUMMER 2025

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POINTS OF PRIDE

IMPROVING OUR SCHOOLS

DISTRICT DIRECTORY

GC-4 BOARD OF EDUCATION HELEN RANSOM, PRESIDENT MONICA TERRY, VICE PRESIDENT

CONTENTS

JOSHUA HILL, TREASURER LEONARD GREENE, MEMBER DAMON GREENE, MEMBER DAWN FOY, MEMBER STACY WRIGHT, MEMBER GC-4 ADMINISTRATION DR. KENNY RODREQUEZ, SUPERINTENDENT DR. STEPHANIE AMAYA, ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT DR. PRISSY LEMAY, ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION DR. ROYCE POWELSON, ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT OPERATIONS AND FINANCE

SUPERINTENDENT'S LETTER

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BOARD PRESIDENT'S LETTER

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2025 GC-4 STAFF OF THE YEAR

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POINTS OF PRIDE

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IMPROVING OUR SCHOOLS

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DISTRICT DIRECTORY

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LETTER FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

WELCOME TO THE 2025-2026 SCHOOL YEAR!

DR. KENNY RODREQUEZ – SUPERINTENDENT OF GRANDVIEW C-4 SCHOOLS

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.

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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT “Our district has a strong, unified staff whose focused efforts to increase literacy are paying off.”

WE ARE ALL-IN

HELEN RANSOM – PRESIDENT

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

SCHOOL REPORT 4

Teacher of the Year: Jeremy Clarkson

Support Staff of the Year: Grace Herman

HONORING EXCELLENCE: GC-4 EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR EACH SPRING, WE CELEBRATE THE EXCEPTIONAL PEOPLE WHO BRING OUR MISSION TO LIFE. MEET OUR 2025 HONOREES:

Volunteer of the Year: Jessica Moore

�� 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 Rising Star: Rebecca James

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.

Mentor of the Year: John Sonderman

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POINTS OF PRIDE

GRANDVIEW MIDDLE EARNS STATE RECOGNITION FOR STUDENT GROWTH The PRiME Center at Saint Louis University has recognized Grandview Middle School for exceptional student growth in English Language Arts from 2022 to 2024. The school ranked 11th in growth among high-poverty schools and 16th overall statewide.

Congratulations to our students and staff on this outstanding achievement!

A NIGHT TO REMEMBER: GRAND OPENING OF GHS BASEBALL STADIUM The lights were bright, the crowd was loud, and the pride was strong on May 16 as we celebrated the grand opening of our new Grandview High School Baseball Stadium. Fans enjoyed a special pre-game ceremony, senior recognition, and a ceremonial first pitch by Superintendent Dr. Kenny Rodrequez. It was a home run night for the Bulldogs—and the community!

Grandview H.S. Welding Student

STATE STANDOUTS: TRACK & FIELD BRINGS THE HEAT The 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.

FORGING FUTURES: WELDING STUDENTS MAKE HISTORY 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.

Individual & Team Highlights: Jordin McGee: Long Jump | 100m Dash | Relay

REAL-WORLD READY: FIVE STUDENTS HIRED BY HONEYWELL

Alternates: Zion Robinson, Jada Smith

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.

NATIONAL SPOTLIGHT: PLTW DISTINGUISHED DISTRICT 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.

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�� 100m Hurdles | �� 4x100m

Girls 4x100m Relay – STATE CHAMPIONS Jordin McGee, Amoya Clay, Lariah Tucker, Iyanna Pope

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

SCHOOL REPORT 5

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IMPROVING OUR SCHOOLS District Upgrades and Renovation Projects

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!

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TOP – Grandview High School Choir Room Renderings BOTTOM– Grandview High School Media Center Renderings

DIRECTORY

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GRANDVIEW HIGH SCHOOL

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CONN-WEST ELEMENTARY

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GRANDVIEW, MO. 64030

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GRANDVIEW, MO. 64030

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STEPHANIE BRADLEY

PRINCIPAL

PRINCIPAL

PRINCIPAL

MEADOWMERE ELEMENTARY

CAIR

HIGH GROVE EARLY CHILDHOOD

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GRANDVIEW, MO. 64030

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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.