Category Archives: Uncategorized

Tapestry of Cultures

Posted on August 17, 2017 by

We opened the doors to a new school year on August 11. As I visited schools to greet our students, I was once again reminded of the rich diversity that is our community. The faces of our students represent the … Continue reading →

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Diversity is Our Strength

Posted on August 11, 2017 by

The doors to a new school year have opened. In Kansas City, Kansas, we have such a rich history. A history that began in 1844 when the first public school was built right here in my community, serving white and … Continue reading →

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Equitable and Adequate School Funding

Posted on June 20, 2017 by

I received this photograph from Alan, a colleague who, like many of us, has spent decades advocating for equitable and adequate funding for Kansas schools. Apparently, the Mayan people of Chichen Itza, Mexico found it entertaining to watch “athletes” transcend … Continue reading →

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Thank You!

Posted on May 25, 2017 by

Dear Teachers, Administrators and Staff, As we close out the 2017 school year, I want to thank you for the role you play each day in supporting the students of the Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools. Your leadership and commitment … Continue reading →

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We Are All Immigrants

Posted on March 21, 2017 by

Can you wrap your mind around the lack of middle ground that seems present in all facets of our society these days? I must admit, my ideas can be pretty fixed. But I was taught to look for the middle … Continue reading →

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Take the Stairs

Posted on March 15, 2017 by

Recently I was clicking through the local news channels, and happened upon the end of a report featuring an event where a large number of determined individuals walked or ran more than 800 steps to reach the top of one … Continue reading →

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Hobson’s Choice

Posted on January 31, 2017 by

I imagine that people who have never visited Kansas might have a narrow view of who we are. When you say “Kansas,” some people probably envision cowboys, cattle, and fields of crops as far as the eye can see. If … Continue reading →

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Journey of a Superintendent: Gloria Dean (Alexander) Willis

Posted on January 2, 2017 by

Just before the New Year, the Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools lost a giant, a woman who influenced the lives of literally tens of thousands of students and their families in this community. It’s hard to know where to begin … Continue reading →

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Journey of a Superintendent: School Finance Formula

Posted on November 30, 2016 by

The current block grant system used to fund public schools in Kansas is set to sunset June 30, 2017. To prepare for the upcoming legislative session, Governor Brownback requested citizens from across the state share feedback with him about what … Continue reading →

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Journey of a Superintendent: Thank You

Posted on November 16, 2016 by

On November 8, 2016, a no-tax increase bond for Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools was authorized with a 79% approval rate. This $235 million bond will keep tax rates the same for residents of KCK, and provide critical resources to … Continue reading →

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