Winter 2025 School Report

FUTURE STRONG GRANDVIEW

C-4

SCHOOL

REPORT

WINTER 2025

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FUTURE READY FEATURE

IMPROVING OUR SCHOOLS

DISTRICT DIRECTORY

GC-4 BOARD OF EDUCATION MONICA TERRY, PRESIDENT HELEN RANSOM, 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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DISTRICT’S STRATEGIC PLAN

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BOARD PRESIDENT'S LETTER

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FUTURE READY FEATURE

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IMPROVING OUR SCHOOLS

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DISTRICT DIRECTORY

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LETTER FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

WELCOME TO 2025!

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

As we welcome the year 2025, it fills me with joy and a continued sense of pride to reflect on our district's accomplishments and the promising path that lies ahead. The previous year's milestones were made possible by your steadfast support and the unwavering spirit of collaboration within our community.

Our journey of continuous improvement is highlighted by strategic investments from the 2021 $45 million bond, and now further enhanced by the 2024 $50 million bond. These efforts signify our pledge to the community to enhance our facilities for the betterment of our students, staff, and community. This includes the construction of a state-of-the-art baseball and softball stadium which is now underway. The new fields will not only elevate school spirit but also highlight our school district as a regional landmark. The meticulous planning for renovations in our elementary and secondary schools is also underway. These initiatives will help to modernize our learning spaces and equip students and educators with essential resources for success. In doing so, we further instill bulldog pride throughout our community.

Our focus on future-ready students involves integrating real-world learning experiences across all levels of education.

We continue to enhance career and technical education programs to provide hands-on learning and practical experience that prepares students for their future roles within society. Our partnerships with community stakeholders are crucial as we continue building pathways to success for our students. These alliances empower us to adapt, innovate, and inspire educational excellence. Together, we work tirelessly to ensure every student is equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow.

As we move into the second half of the 2024 school year, I am filled with gratitude and anticipation. Gratitude for your unwavering support and anticipation for the bright opportunities awaiting us. Together, we are not merely preparing students to be future-ready but cultivating a community of passion, purpose, and impactful change.

Thank you for your continued dedication to our district. Here’s to a prosperous and fulfilling 2025!

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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT Dear Grandview Families, Happy 2025!! Every year, I think to myself, where did the year go? Then I reflect on the past 12 months and am reminded about what an amazing year it was and the many things we had to celebrate. The progress, partnerships, and programs that have been created, developed, and expanded, ensure that the students of Grandview have the same or better experiences as those all across the metro.

MONICA TERRY – PRESIDENT

In 2021, voters passed a $45 million bond, signaling to our district leadership that they wanted more for our children. Just three short years later, in 2024, voters again overwhelmingly supported the district by passing a $50 million bond. With this money, improvements to facilities and programs provided experiences that go beyond the classroom. When I speak to a student and their eyes light up when they talk about the amazing new band room, it warms my heart. When a student stands in front of 30 strangers from across the country and excitedly tells them about the new advanced manufacturing facility allowing them to gain certification in high school, that means the world to me. These kinds of experiences, which are so critical to the education of the whole child, could not be available without community support. For that, we are immensely grateful.

I, along with the rest of the Board of Education, continue to support the efforts being made to ensure a successful educational experience for our students. They deserve not only the very best education, but also the very best their teachers, support employees, and administration can give. Every month, we receive updates about programs in place, but we also hear about new experiences available to our students.

Through partnerships with businesses such as the Kauffman Foundation and the Kansas City National Security Campus (KCNSC) managed by Honeywell, among many others, our children and teachers get both in-class and extracurricular opportunities that go beyond the traditional educational setting. This means that upon graduation, students are immediately able to take the next step that is right for them. As a parent, it is encouraging to know that my children will have a path to success as adults because of the opportunities afforded to them while in Grandview. I hope it encourages all of you as well to know the Grandview C-4 School District is producing tomorrow’s leaders, today.

It is a privilege to continue to serve this community on the Grandview C-4 Board of Education. I look forward to many more years of service.

With gratitude, Monica Terry Board of Education, President

SCHOOL REPORT 4

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FUTURE READY

G R A N D V I E W H I G H S C H O O L ’S A D V A N C E D M A N U F A C T U R I N G PROGRAM: SHAPING FUTURES THROUGH HANDS-ON LEARNING Grandview High School’s Advanced Manufacturing Program is setting students up for success by equipping them with the technical skills, soft skills, and industry connections needed to thrive in today’s workforce. Led by teacher Adam Burns, the program is designed to provide students with real-world experiences, preparing them for college, technical school, or direct entry into the workforce.

“The program was completely reinvented after our renovation in 2022-2023,” said Burns. “Our recent growth is largely due to our comprehensive curriculum. We built it by analyzing what other high schools are teaching, aligning it with college-level programs, and incorporating skills that industry leaders value, thanks to input

EXPANDING OPPORTUNITIES Looking to the future, Burns is excited about growing the program further. “We want to offer next-level classes,” he said. Recently, Burns earned certification to teach Computer Integrated Manufacturing through Project Lead The Way. The course will introduce students to robotic automation processes and computeraided design (CAD), enabling them to design and manufacture 3D parts using advanced coding and machinery.

A STUDENT’S PERSPECTIVE

from partners like KCNSC (Kansas City National Security Campus).”

For sophomore Maliyah Wells, the Advanced Manufacturing Program has been transformative. “I chose the class on a whim, and it ended up being my favorite class of the year,” she said. “I’ve

COMPREHENSIVE CURRICULUM

been able to work with so many tools and machinery, using them to complete projects.”

The curriculum is robust, offering students both technical expertise and essential workplace habits.

Hard Skills: Students learn welding, machining on vertical mills,

One of her proudest achievements is a desk organizer she created with the guidance of a mentor. “I learned an easier way to lay

using metal lathes, and mastering drill presses. They gain proficiency in print reading and metrology, the science of

stringers and weaves when welding, and my stringers looked way cleaner. It made me happy,” Maliyah said.

measurement.

Soft Skills: Equally important, students develop workplace

The program has also shaped her future. “This program has given

communication skills, work ethic, critical thinking, problemsolving, and the ability to handle frustration constructively.

me hands-on experience and exposure to machinery that I can use to shape my education plans and future career,” she explained.

“I’ve become stronger in skills like problem-solving and critical

“Soft skills are just as important as hard skills, but they never seem to get the recognition they deserve,” Burns emphasized.

thinking, and I have a deeper understanding of design and innovation.”

INDUSTRY CONNECTIONS AND COMMUNITY IMPACT

Her advice to others? “Go for it! It might be intimidating at first, especially with how overwhelming and loud everything can be, but don’t let that stop you. For the girls thinking about joining (the program), remember that the program might be mostly guys, but that shouldn’t hold you back. You’ll find your place and have a great time.”

The program thrives on partnerships with local industries. Prier Manufacturing has showcased career opportunities in manufacturing, while KCNSC provides extensive support, including weekly process improvement meetings and hands-on mentorship.

“We have two industry professionals from KCNSC who mentor and teach in five different classes each week,” Burns shared. This collaboration ensures students gain real-world insights and stay updated on industry trends.

A BRIGHT FUTURE Grandview High School’s Advanced Manufacturing Program is more than a class—it’s a gateway to career success and personal growth.

With a forward-thinking curriculum, strong industry connections, and a commitment to hands-on learning, the program is making a lasting impact on students and the community.

As Burns summarized, “When we allow students to explore different styles of hands-on learning, we ignite aptitude in them and give them something they can take into their future.”

CREATE FUTURE District Upgrades and Renovation Projects

NEW PLAYGROUNDS The district completed playground renovations for Martin City K8 and Conn-West Elementary in the summer of 2024. These upgrades mark the conclusion of the district’s playground renovation project, which provided new playgrounds for every elementary school. This initiative ensures equitable opportunities for students across the district.

Elementary Playgrounds

TRACK AND TURF REPLACEMENT The Grandview High School track has been resurfaced and updated with a sleek new design that proudly reflects the Bulldog brand. The field’s turf was also replaced, complete with updated endzone and field logos. These upgrades, funded through the 2021 $45 Million Bond program, enhance the functionality and aesthetics of our athletic facilities.

ATHLETIC FIELDS GHS Track and Turf Replacement

The baseball and softball fields at Grandview High School have been prioritized for major upgrades, approved as part of the April 2024 Bond program. The project will include fully upgraded fields, dugouts, a press box, and additional equipment. The enhancements are expected to be completed by March 2025, providing a state-of-the-art experience for our athletes and fans.

DISTRICT SIGNAGE

Every building in the Grandview C-4 School District has been branded with new district signage. Each school received new monument signage and building signs, all designed to provide a consistent and unified representation of the district.

Athletic Fields

UPCOMING UPGRADES CLASSROOM RENOVATIONS Beginning in the summer of 2025, Conn-West Elementary and Belvidere Elementary will undergo classroom renovations as part of the 2024 $50 Million Bond program. These comprehensive updates will include ceiling-to-floor upgrades such as improved lighting, new cubbies, refreshed flooring, and more. Over the next few years, all elementary schools in the district will receive similar makeovers, ensuring modern and engaging learning environments for our students.

NEW DISTRICT WAREHOUSE

District Signage

The district will also construct a new storage warehouse near the Transportation facility on Park Hills Drive. This addition will provide much-needed storage space to support the district’s operational needs.

We extend our gratitude to the community for supporting these essential projects. Together, we are building a brighter future for Grandview C-4! 08

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CELEBRATING OUR ALUMNI

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE: GRANDVIEW HIGH SCHOOL HONORS ALEC BURKS WITH COURT NAMING CEREMONY

This summer marked a historic milestone for the Grandview C-4 School District as Grandview High School celebrated the extraordinary achievements of one of its most accomplished alumni, Alec Burks. On June 17, 2024, the Alec Burks Court Naming Ceremony was held in the North Gymnasium at Grandview High School, bringing together students, staff, and community members to honor Burks’ contributions.

Alec Burks, a proud member of Grandview High School’s Class of 2009, has made waves both on and off the basketball court. As a professional basketball player, Burks has achieved remarkable success in his career. After earning All-Big 12 honors while playing college basketball at the University of Colorado, he was selected as the 12th overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft by the Utah Jazz. Since then, he has played for several NBA teams, including the Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers, the New York Knicks and most recently the Miami Heat.

While Burks’ professional accomplishments are significant, his unwavering support for the Grandview community truly sets him apart. Over the years, Burks has given back generously to his hometown, making a lasting impact on students and the athletic program at Grandview High School. His contributions include hosting an annual free basketball clinic for local youth, providing a state-of-the-art digital scoreboard for the gymnasium, and gifting championship rings to the boys' 2018 and 2019 state championship teams. These acts of generosity reflect his deep commitment to fostering success and pride within the Bulldog community.

“Alec Burks has not only excelled as a professional athlete but has also remained a steadfast supporter of the Grandview Bulldogs,” said Dr. Kenny Rodrequez, GC-4 Superintendent. “This court naming ceremony is a testament to his exceptional contributions and enduring legacy.”

The Alec Burks Court Naming Ceremony was a celebration of excellence, uniting alumni, current students, and community members in recognition of Burks’ achievements. The event featured heartfelt speeches, moments of reflection, and a renewed sense of Bulldog pride.

This momentous occasion underscores the value of fostering strong ties between schools and alumni and serves as an inspiration for current students to pursue their passions while giving back to their communities. Alec Burks’ story is a reminder that success is not only measured by personal achievements but also by the positive impact one makes on others.

Grandview High School’s North Gymnasium will now serve as a lasting tribute to Burks’ dedication and influence, proudly bearing his name as a symbol of excellence, generosity, and community spirit.

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DIRECTORY

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The School Report magazine is published two times a year. It is 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.