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    • Submit Your News
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  • News
    • Voter Resources
    • Online Puzzles
  • Community
    • Events Calendar
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​news

Good News: "All Together Now" Summer Library program begins June 1st

6/1/2023

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​Mid-Continent Public Library’s 2023 Summer Library Program will begin June 1 and run through August 24. The annual program helps kids stay intellectually engaged over the summer months by encouraging them to read for at least 20 minutes a day.
 
“Whether you’re reading a recipe together while cooking, or sitting down for a traditional storytime, there lots of ways for kids to get those 20 minutes of reading time in each day,” said MCPL Youth Services Manager Katie McDonald. “The most important thing is that reading becomes a daily practice because that’s what helps build those foundational early literacy skills. Summer Library Program is great because it helps make this easy and fun, and kids are ready to learn when they head back to class in the fall!”
 
Kids who read 20 minutes a day will earn a free book at 20, 40, and 60 days of reading, and those who complete 60 days (and log their reading online) will also qualify for a grand prize from the Library’s Community Partners, including the Kansas City Royals, Kansas City Zoo, B&B Theatres, and SEA LIFE Kansas City.

​Adults can also get in on the fun by modeling good reading behaviors, and those who read for 60 days will earn a commemorative Summer Library Program glass.
 
The theme of this year’s Summer Library Program is “All Together Now” in celebration of kindness and friendship. In addition to encouraging reading, MCPL branches will host a variety of Summer Library Program events for all ages related to this year’s theme, such as Kansas City Zoo: Jungle Harmony (for ages 4 and up), during which kids will learn how animals and plants of the rainforest work together to create a harmonious ecosystem.
 
Find a full list of Summer Library Program events, get additional program information, and sign up to participate at mymcpl.org/SLP. Paper logs are also available at MCPL’s 30+ locations to sign up and track reading.

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Missouri rule takes effect putting library funds in jeopardy over ‘obscene’ material

6/1/2023

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by Rudi Keller, Missouri Independent 
Missouri public libraries survived a legislative fight over state aid but now face a new hurdle to obtain the money – they must certify to the Secretary of State that they have policies in place that put parents in charge of what their children read and see.
The most likely response from libraries, leaders of the Missouri Library Association said Tuesday, is to give parents a choice – either allow their child to have a library card, with full access to books and other materials, or monitor the selections in person and check out with the parent’s card.
“If you are that concerned, you need to be in the library helping them select materials,” said Cody Croan, chair of the association’s legislative committee.
On Tuesday, a new rule took effect intended to prevent youths under 18 from accessing “obscene” materials at public libraries. Districts must have a written policy defining what materials are “age-appropriate,” keep non-appropriate materials and displays out of areas designated for minors and post whether events and presentations are suitable for some or all age groups.
The policy must allow the parent or guardian of a child to challenge the designation of any material or event. The rule, first proposed by Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft in October as he was mulling a bid for governor, would deny state funding to any library that does not submit a written policy by July 31.
There are 160 public library districts in the state.
The rule covers all funds distributed through the State Library, a branch of Ashcroft’s office. This year, that would be $4.5 million for direct aid, much of it distributed on a per-capita basis, as well as $3.35 million for computer networks, $3.1 million to support access to materials available online, and $4.1 million in anticipated federal library grants.
“As the keeper of the funds, they have to make an application for those grants through our office,” said JoDonn Chaney, spokesman for Ashcroft. “They have always had steps to follow.”
There is one other rule governing library materials that also deals with obscene materials. Since 2003, libraries have been required to block minors from accessing pornographic material via the internet at public terminals.
The rule doesn’t specify any particular structure for any library to follow, Chaney said.
“What Secretary Ashcroft is saying is, ‘you guys need a policy, you write that policy, and have it in place for people to see,’” Chaney said. “We are not saying what you have to put in the policy, just that you have to have it accessible, and have a way for parents to challenge the policy.”
There have been two significant changes from the original proposal to the final rule. The first was to narrow the definition of what could not be purchased with state funds from obtaining “materials in any form that appeal to the prurient interest of any minor” to materials defined as obscene and forbidden to minors in state law.
The other was to limit those who could challenge the policies from “any person” to “any parent or guardian” of a child who lives in the area served by the library district.
When it was introduced, public comments were mainly negative and denounced the rule as an attempt at censorship. 
While libraries vary widely in the share of their total budget from state funding, Croan said he wasn’t aware of any districts intending to deliberately challenge the rule. Most districts already had written policies on how to select materials based on the age of the user, he said.
Kimberly Moeller, president-elect of the association, said the big challenge of the rule is making sure no minor obtains material that their parent or guardian has not approved.
Many libraries around the state allow access to their collections – and the collections of other libraries – remotely, she said. 
“The libraries can’t control what a child has access to in their own home,” Moeller said.
Library computer check-out systems aren’t set up for parents to insert lists of forbidden books or topics, Moeller said. That is why many parents will be receiving revocation notices for their child’s library card.
Parents need to explicitly agree to a library’s policy governing general access to materials by minors and their rights to challenge the age-appropriate designation for any item. Having them renew their child’s card is the simplest way to accomplish it, Moeller said.
“It is unfortunate it is starting just as school ends and summer reading programs are beginning,” Moeller said. “It is just an additional barrier, an additional hoop that community members have to go through.”
The funding at stake for any district that fails to submit its certification of compliance almost didn’t make it into the budget. 
House Budget Committee Chairman Cody Smith, R-Carthage, cut the $4.5 million line of general aid to zero. Smith was upset because the Missouri Library Association joined the ACLU and the Missouri Association of School Libraries in a suit challenging a new state law limiting the materials available in school libraries.
That lawsuit, in Jackson County, is in its early stages. Schools have removed hundreds of books, PEN America reported. Lee’s Summit spent $19,000 through mid-April reviewing about half of 90 challenged books, the Kansas City Star reported.
The law allowing school library books to be challenged and the new rule for public libraries flows from the same source, Moeller said.
“It is weird because there are so many different pieces related to the same idea, that there needs to be protection from libraries, that libraries are providing these explicit materials,” Moeller said.
The most difficult part of the new rule is allowing parents to challenge the aged designation of any item in the library. Some libraries are receiving lists of 100 or more books and challenges overall are increasing, Moeller said.
“Most of the items being included in these lists relate to identity, race or sexual orientation,” she said. “What we really seeing is the ones that relate to identity are being called ‘inappropriate.’”
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Good News: GVHS and Sni Valley Academy graduates

5/25/2023

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Photo credit: Grain Valley Schools
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Congratulations to the 2023 Grain Valley High School and 2023 Sni Valley Academy graduates. Grain Valley High School's graduation ceremony was held Monday, May 22nd at Cable Dahmer Arena. 

2023 Grain Valley High School graduates:

​Josie Lynn Adams
Rhylan Marcellino Alcanter
Rula Iyad Alkhatib
Annika Rae Allen
Jake Rogers Allen
Mattie Lauren Allen
Nathan Anthony Allen
Cecilia  Alvarado-Damian
Maria Guadalupe Alvarado-Damian
Lexi Jo Arndorfer
Makayla Kawipuilani Arrington
Dru Robert Azcona
Cooper Liam Bailey
Joshua Bradley Bailey
Brock Harvey Baker
Hailey Alexandra Ballard
Tanner Jackson Barker
Kylie Jase Barnett
Lilly Maryn Barszczak
Rylee Jo Bartholow
Athena Rayne Nieves Bates
Peyton Louise Bell
Brianka Noel Benjamin
Mason Matthew Berry
Lindsey Nicole Bertling
Lori Anita Bickham
Clayton West Bivens
Alivia Raye Blackmore
Kaylynn Elizabeth Bly
Carter Anthony Bohanon
Kennedy Lane Bohanon
Pierce Nathaniel Bousselot
Cameryn Alyssa Bown
Dylan Michael Braden
Cydnee Banks Bradley
Bain Alexander Broadhead
Kendrah Alayn Brooks
Grace Ann Brotherton
Amanda Grace Brown
Paige Renee Brown
Piper Lauren Buddemeyer
Anthony Wendell Burch
Averie Rae Burge
Jayden Christopher Burress
Kendall Daveon Butler
Kenya Dave'onne Butler
Adelyn Lottie Bybee
Emma Marie Carey
Chloe Elizabeth Carrillo
Donovan Paul Case
Lillian Grace Cassidy
Dante Santiago Castilleja
Adelyn Paige Caswell
Kyle Michael Cave
Alexander Michael Cerra
Cooper Anthony Cerra
Isabel Kay Chairez
Spencer Gordon Herschal Chase
Olivia Christine Chatburn
Yumiko  Chen
Robert Ethan Clasby
Ella Grace Clyman
Bruno Vanz Collares
Kayley Marie Coney
Aimee Grace Cook
Austin Paul Cook
Xavier McGuire Cook
Shania Shaylee Cope
Hannah Elisabeth Copple
Regan Danielle Costigan
Bracyn Indy Crain
Jeremiah David Creech
Katelynn Michele Deylane Cross
Hannah Elizabeth Crutcher
Andrew Steven Czeschin
Giovanni Rivera D'Angelo
Carson Lee Davis
Jordan Maxine Davis
Caton Linlee Day
Audrey Lynn Deberry
Caitlin Ashley DeBerry
Anthony Jacob Diaz
Beckett Henry Disco
Thomas Jackson Doolin
Colton James Drollinger
Tyeler James Duncan
Makayla Anna Marie Dyer
Fiona Aleen Edwards
Cole Jayden Elliott
Karsen Jacob Emry
Lahndon Lee Silas Faltynowski
Laina Marie Faulk
Cynthia Lynette Ferrer
Reagan Lee Fisher
Christian Dean Fite
Marie Elizabeth Frazier
Mason Rose Frerking
Jonathan Thomas Gann
Avery Jackson Garmon
Ryleigh Nyte Garrison
Michael Ray Gassen
Logan Michael Giese
Tyler Lee Gifford
Jacob Michael Gleich
Luke Thomas Gniotczynski
Leighton Xander Godwin
Alexia Destiny Goodell
Kaitlynn Deanna Goosey
Macey Ann Gower
Alana Reeann Graham
Evan Christopher Green
Tyler Dalton Groves
Nickole Rae Gunlock
Sophia Rachel Hackett
Theron James Hackworth
Jordyn Marie Haile
Trent Leslie Hailey
Skylar Marie Hall
Ryan Hunter Halteman
Keegan Christopher Handy
Joseph Reed Hansuld
Westin Lee Haralson
Ethan Michael Harris
Keagan John Hart
Eiley Gail Hartley
Katelynn Bell Hayworth
Ryan Nicholas Heidrich
Samantha Mercedese Heinrich
Nathaniel Michael Heinz
Hailey Grace Hemme
McKenna Michele Henry
Owen Andrew Herbert
Isadora Elizabeth Herman
Hayden Bruce Hermon
Crysta Marie Hernandez
Conner Scott Herrbach
Landry Elizabeth Hicks
Carson Scott Hill
Katie Nichole Hobbs
Keegan Gabriel Holcomb
Avree Jade Hollis
Gabrielle Diore Holman
Maxwell Christian Hoover
Sara Jacquelyn Hubbard
Taden Michael Huerter
Maddux Dean Hughes
Dru McKenna Iles
Jaydn Elizabeth Jarman
Conner Michael Johnson
Ethan Otto Johnson
Marissa Lynn Johnson
Lynnette Marie Jones
Mallory Paige Jones
Ryan Robert Peter Jones
Kessid Hope Keim
Mackenzie Elizabeth Keller
Olivia Josephine Kelley
Payton Nolan Kennedy
Jasmonee Niyonda Inise King
Rory Daniel Kirkpatrick
Lauren Michelle Kitsmiller
Carly Jo Koerner
Leland Robert Kohne
Zachary Joseph Konko
Dominic Alexander Korycki
Kenzie Marie Lair
Ryan Wayne Lampe
Christian Kaiyon Lanear
Ian Edward Langschied
Alexys Marie Lares
Robert Michael Larkin
Caleb Jeffrey Larson
Dylan Ryan Laughlin
Isaac Douglas Laws
Kyler Lee Lemery
Ava  Lin
Hunter Allen Lingle
Drew Danielle Linthicum
Emmalee Elizabeth Lockwood
Kelsey Ann Loges
Logan Thomas Long
Addyson Mara Lyford
Holly Lynn Malicoat
Jansynn Rylin Kate-Spiva Martin
Seth Patrick Martin
Megan Ashley Mazzarella
Taylor Christine McClain
Drew Douglas McDonald
Trent Alexander Melton
Kaleena Nicole Menzsa
Allison Marie Meyers
Kaitlyn Jean Mickelson
Hannah Roxann Middaugh
Ethan Grant Miller
Gabrielle Nicole Miller
Kiera Jade Miller
Hannah Reese Millier
Aidan Christian Moffet
Alaysha Annette Molina
Diego Ryan Montez
Michael Lon Montgomery Jr.
Mason Stone Morris
Mattie Wambui Mwangi
Carmen Elizabeth Myers
Tyler Keith Lowell Myers
Gavin Gene Mygatt
Quinn Liberty Newgaard
Lexie Cathryn Nicholson
Mara Faith Niemeyer
Stephen Joseph Nuttall
Alayna Christine Patel
Lexie Louise Pederson
William Nicholas Peterson
Jacob Andrew Pittman
Hunter Stephen Pittsenbarger
Chloe Diane Plummer
Katherin Maria Portillo
Blake Layne Prewitt
Asher Owen Randall
William Scott Randolph
Nathanial Louis Rathmann
Maximus Cole Reardon
Juliana Nicole Reece
Peyton Mac Reed
Mia Alison Reeder
Evan Mason Reich
Averi Grace Reynolds
Everett Jake Richards
Cadyn Lewis Riling
Braxton Clark Roach
McKenzie Jordyn Roeder
Madison McKenzie Rogers
Kayla Danielle Rolley
Keren Ivania Rosario
Paige Elizabeth Ryan
Ty Jasper Sanders
Gabriella Isabelle Sanjur
Austin Raymond Schmitt
Avari Elise Schwenk
Ethan Cole Schwirtz
Peyton Wilford Schwirtz
Alexandria Monique Scott
Trae Lelei Craig Selemaea
Allison Ann Shafer
Allison Nicole Shields
Danika Nikole Sickle
Chase Thomas Simpson
Ethan Reed Simpson
Grace Kay Slaughter
Brock Wesley Smith
Emma Victoria Smith
Alexander Thomas Snyder
Mariah Elise Snyder
Carlee Denise Solomon
Katelyn Nicole Spangler
Adler Paul Stahel
Ellie Kristine Stahl
Rhea'leigh Solveig Stanley
Madison Lee Stansbury
Keili Danielle Stevens
Kellen David Stevens
Jackson Lloyd Stewart
Gary Brayden Stolle
Jade Savannah Stone
Payden Rae Stone
Riley Alan Strickland
Chloe Elizabeth Sutton
Caitlin Kaey Ying Tan
Mia Rose Tarantola
Eli John Taylor
Nathaniel Robert Joseph Testa
Delaney Brooke Thompson
Tanner Allen Todd
Norah Gayle Townsend
Reece William Troyer
Christopher Michael Turkaly
Jacob Lee Turman
Wyatt Webb Van Cleave
Aundria Nicole VanHeel
Payton Alexandria VanHook
Jendayah Tamar Vaughn
Daniel  Villegas
Dawson Matthew Wagner
Finley Ella-Brooke Waldren
Sky Ann Marie Walton
Emily Rose Wampler
Cameron Dean Ware
Cory'Onna Marie Wasson
Audrey Kaye Weathers
Jace Dalton Weems
Sydnie Lynn Weimer
James Robert Welzel
Isabella Grace West
Owen Mac White
Riley Marie Wiedenmann
Owen Michael Wiese
Andrea Nicole Wiggins
Vincent William Wilkins
Camihle Amerie Williams
Cooper Chase Williams
Zane Alexander Williams
Jaiden Dean Wilson
Ryan Andrew Withrow
William David Woods
Sni-Valley Academy graduates:

​Jordan Ali Amjad
Shyann Marie Josephine Johnson Becchina
McKenna Faith Bishop
Jacksen Wyatt Broyles
Victor Armon Burnett
Luke Richard Buxton
Alyssa Nicole Cannon
Tyler Abraham Carlos
Alexis Raeann Caulfield
Jackson Connor Chambers
Abbielynn Mary Coleman
Jadyn Reigh Cunningham
Josephine Eve Duckworth
Maggie Sofia Duplantis
Ethan Riley Edmonds
Savana Rain Fletcher
Kelsie JoAnn Frame
Hana May Francis
Bradley Cole Gildehaus
Lucas Michael Gilliland
Kylie Elizabeth Gramiling
Connor Dwayne Heitman
Zoey Jaden Henderson
Macy Jade Horton
Addelyn Darrah Rebecca Howard
Kodi Ann Marie Humbird
Trinidee Marie Hutchison
Josiah S Juarez
John Christopher Keeney
Jaxsen Lee Kennedy
Cooper Patrick Kenyon
Coleson Lee King
Colin James Meece
Payton Lynn Miller
Kameron Lee Naylor
Vanessa Ann Nicholson
Delaney Rhen Nielsen
Dalton James Otto
Bella Kristina Rold
Paul Puaaelo Schiffer Jr
Phebe Lynn Sebastian
Connor Joseph Smith
Jaydon Austin Sprouse
Aldrick Elliott Stirling
Jadon Anthony Wayne Summers
Victoria Ann Swartz
Lillie Rayne Tipton
Jackson Paul Tyler
Sydney Christine Weinzirl
Gavin Lee West
Grayer Ross Wheelock
Najfia  York
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Sni Valley Academy graduates celebrated for hard work and perseverance

5/19/2023

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​by Cole Arndorfer
On a beautiful, mid-May evening in Grain Valley, Missouri, Sni Valley Academy held its commencement ceremony at Grain Valley High School for its 50 graduates. For these 50 young adults, their path to a high school diploma may not have been the easiest route to take, but, through hard work and perseverance, they came out on the other side.

In his opening speech, Grain Valley High School principal, Dr. Jeremy Plowman applauded the work that Sni Valley Academy directors, Ryan Adams and Jill Maxon, do for students.  Plowman noted that across the country, less than half of kids that attend alternative school graduate with a high school diploma. Plowman said that in the Grain Valley School District, that number is over 90 percent thanks to Adams and Maxon.

To recognize his commitment and service to the students of Sni Valley, Dr. Plowman was given an honorary diploma from Sni Valley Academy as a token of their appreciation.

Mr. Adams thanked each of the student’s family and friends for attending as he said, “I know the road to this point wasn’t always smooth, but your support and encouragement helps these graduates cross the finish line.”

Addressing the graduates, Adams said, “you’ve all worked extremely hard to get to this point and it’s very rewarding for us to watch you walk across this stage… you’ve already faced many challenges… overcoming these challenges is the first step in achieving your goals and getting your diploma. Whatever path you choose, be sure you put everything you have into doing it right.”

Mrs. Maxon added on this by saying, “next time you’re going through something hard, remember this exact moment, this feeling, I want you to remember everything about it because things are going to get hard again, but if you believe in yourself and recall this amazing feeling, you will know that all of the hard is worth it.”

Sni Valley graduate Bradley Gildehaus said that graduation was a special moment for him. It was a time of reflection on “all the hard work that went into it. This is an alternative school, so things didn’t go as planned but I made it and I’m happy to be here!” Gildehaus said.

He then added that Sni Valley prepared him well for his future by allowing him to work while attending school. Looking toward the future, Gildehaus said that he may join his father in the construction business now that he has his diploma.

Reflecting on the graduation, Adams says that this night “means a lot, these kids have worked so hard. Their backs were against the wall many times in their student career and for them to overcome that and get to this point, it’s a very cool moment for us to see them do that.”

When asked what is most meaningful to him in his work at Sni Valley Academy, Adams responded, “You get to work with kids that really need your help. The kids that need support, and guidance, and structure. It’s an honor to be able to provide them that."

In his final piece of advice to the graduates, Mr. Adams said, “You’re not alone as you begin your future…remember, success in life is hard to achieve on your own. Surround yourself with good people and good things will happen.”
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Sni Valley Academy students tossed their caps into the air at the conclusion of their graduation ceremony on Thursday evening at Grain Valley High School. Photo credit: Cole Arndorfer
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School Board meeting recap

5/19/2023

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​by Cole Arndorfer
On Thursday, May 18, the Grain Valley Board of Education met for their regularly scheduled meeting.

In the recognitions portion of the meeting, the board recognized five groups.

The board first recognized GVHS freshman, and FBLA state qualifier, Blake Hurley. Hurley was the first freshman to ever hold executive office for FBLA in GVHS as well as the first student to place in Mobile App Development at state, placing eighth.

Next, Ms. Julie Lever, GVHS Spanish teacher, presented Grain Valley’s first ever Seal of Biliteracy to Carson Hill. To achieve this, Hill scored well on an English exam and also took an outside exam to show his proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and understanding Spanish.

Next, Jeff Kramer presented representatives from the Early Childhood Center with an award recognizing 2023 Missouri School-Wide Positive Behavior Support Bronze Tier selection; while Nancy Rogers presented representatives from Matthews Elementary with an award to recognize their 2023 MO SW-PBS Gold Tier selection. Both Kramer and Rogers agreed that these two schools were extremely deserving of the recognition and said that they are used as examples of great schools.

The next recognition was delivered by Assistant Superintendent Dr. Amanda Allen to the district’s Leadership Seminar graduates. Those graduates are: Melanie Brockhaus, Nancy Leaser, Kourtney Michael, Alyssa Thomas, and Teri Turner. In this program, these teachers met monthly for two hours each session for two years to learn about various aspects of leadership within the district.

"It’s our intention then, from this group, to draw future summer school directors, and those seeking leadership positions within the district,” Allen explained.

The last recognition was for the three Speech and Debate students who competed in the state Speech and Debate competition. Gabby Holman and Carmen Myers were recognized for their first-place finish at state in the Policy Debate competition. Myers also placed second in International Extemporaneous Speaking. Freshman Dylan Rucinski qualified for state in the Humorous Interpretation category.

In the new business segment of the meeting, the board held action on the construction contracts for phase six at GVHS as well as the total project budget for phase six. The board approved the contracts for the Newkirk Novak construction partners with a guaranteed maximum price of $22,886,754.

As for the reports segment, the board heard from district superintendent Dr. Brad Welle. Welle explained that the bond issue was passed for $32 million, with the hard costs for phase six approved at just over $22 million, the district has the ability to complete some other projects.

Among the projects Welle named: district-wide HVAC improvements, baseball and softball complex improvements, IT network upgrades, operation department storage addition, gymnasium floor replacement at Sni-A-Bar and Prairie Branch Elementary, door and window replacements at various buildings, a band shed, and playground resurfacing at the Early Childhood Center.

“We know that we have the funds to do those projects…” Welle said.

Welle also mentioned that the district has the opportunity to switch all of the lights in the district over to LEDs, though it would come with an upfront cost that would be made back in energy savings later. The district also would like to do a full reroof at Matthews Elementary as well as purchase some extra, portable, bleachers to use at the high school athletic fields.

Also discussed at length in this section was food services debt and possible solutions to get this money back. At this time, the district has $32,000 in debt from kids/families who have a negative balance in their school lunch money account and district provided lunches to substitute teachers. Assistant Superintendent of Support Services Dr. Nick Gooch said that the district recently received a $7,700 donation from the Grain Valley Assistance Council to cover debts from the highest need families. Gooch said that this is a problem that’s being seen across the area, not just in the Grain Valley School District, and he is welcome to discussing potential solutions to this problem in the future.

Lastly, in the board policies section, the board heard final reading from three policy proposals and took action on each of them. The first was KC – Community Engagement policy. This policy calls for a community engagement plan which the board is in the process of drafting and will leave open to changes as needed through engaging the community.

​The second policy was BDDH-1 – Public Participation at Board Meetings. This policy allows the public to speak on whichever topic they choose at board meetings so long as it is within the law to do so. The last policy was JECA – Eligibility to Enroll. This policy follows new legislature regarding enrollment in schools and provides more flexibility to those wishing to enroll their students in Grain Valley Schools. All three policies were approved by the board.

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Good News: GVHS local scholarship awards ceremony

5/18/2023

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Grain Valley High School hosted its local scholarship awards ceremony on May 10th, presenting more than $146,900 in scholarships earned by graduating seniors. The scholarships presented and each honoree is listed below.
 
Grain Valley Education Foundation Top 15% scholarship:
Yumiko Chen
Cameryn Bown
Evan Reich
Gabrielle Holman
Owen Herbert
Carmen Myers
Grace Slaughter
Jade Stone
Lillian Cassidy
Allison Shafer
Macey Gower
Peyton Bell
Olivia Chatburn
Carter Bohanon
Kylie Barnett
Maddux Hughes
Lynnette Jones
Caitlin Tan
Ava Lin
Allison Shields
Ethan Simpson
Emmalee Lockwood
Holly Malicoat
Ella Clyman
Josie Adams
Chloe Carrillo
Finley Waldren
Mattie Allen
Marissa Johnson
Caton Day
Kiera Miller
Payden Stone
Trent Hailey
Hailey Hemme
Jaydn Jarman
Kayley Coney
Madison Rogers
Austin Schmitt
Avery Garmon
Kaleena Menzsa
Brock Baker
Mason Morris
Kennedy Bohanon

 
John Cianciolo Athlete of Character Memorial Scholarship:
Austin Schmitt
Avery Garmon
Owen Herbert
Cameryn Bown
Lillian Cassidy
Evan Reich
 
David & Patty Hackett Scholarship:
Jade Stone
 
Focus for Grain Valley Scholarship:
Lillian Cassidy
Owen Herbert

Hanneman & Ward DDS Scholarship:
Olivia Chatburn
 
Grain Valley Family Dental Scholarship:
Adelyn Bybee
 
Rachel M. House Hudson Memorial Scholarship:
Olivia Chatburn
Ella Clyman
Lillian Cassidy
Makayla Dyer
Payden Stone
Peyton Bell

Leroy Grubb Memorial Scholarship:
Kellen Stephens

Iron Kettle Foundation Scholarship:
Carmen Myers
Kendrah Brooks

Barbara & Moody Murry Music Scholarship:
Maddux Hughes
 
Mary & Lonnie Harper Speech and Debate Scholarship:
Carmen Myers
 
Kissick Construction Scholarship:
Carter Bohanon
Macey Gower
Ava Lin

Grain Valley Partnership Kissick Construction Scholarship:
Brock Baker
 
Pam Perry "Always an Eagle" Scholarship:
Owen Herbert
 
BR Carpet Marching Eagles Band Scholarship:
Kayley Coney
 
Grain Valley Eagle Booster Club Scholarship:
Peyton Bell
Ava Lin
Carmen Myers
Owen Herbert
Cameryn Bown
Lillian Cassidy
Keagan Hart
Spencer Chase

Dean Sibert Memorial Scholarship:
Cameryn Bown

Jared & Keri English Family Scholarship:
Peyton Bell
Carmen Myers
 
Papa Murphy's of Grain Valley Scholarship:
Madison Rogers
 
Student Government Scholarship:
Jackson Stewart
Jade Stone
 
Dr. Roy Moss Education Scholarship:
Lillian Cassidy
Lynette Jones
 
Athletic Letter-of-Intent Scholarship:
Peyton Bell
Keagan Hart
 
Belcher Scholarship:
Gabrielle Holman
 
Grain Valley R-5 Board of Education Scholarship:
Lillian Cassidy
Evan Reich
Carmen Myers
Peyton Bell
Olivia Chatburn
Ava Lin
Allison Shafer
Hailey Hemme
Cameryn Bown
Trae Selemaea
Owen Herbert
Keagan Hart
Josie Adams
Jade Stone
Emma Carey

Marty Napier Community Service Award Scholarship:
Lillian Cassidy
Olivia Chatburn
Maddux Hughes
Carmen Myers
Avari Schwenk
Allison Shafer

Jerry Mueller Memorial Scholarship:
Mattie Allen
 
Ray Wilson Memorial Scholarship:
Austin Schmitt
 
Jessica Gardner Memorial Scholarship:
Mattie Allen
 
Napier Award Football Scholarship:
Jake Allen
 
Erma & Robert Doty Memorial Scholarship:
Maddux Hughes
 
Grain Valley Historical Society Scholarship:
Ty Sanders
 
Bank of Grain Valley:
Evan Reich
 
Ed McRell Memorial Scholarship:
Makenzie Keller
 
Stayton and Patricia (Davis) Parr Scholarship:
Yumiko Chen
 
Foundation Seed Money Scholarship:
Owen Herbert
Megan Mazzarella
Ty Sanders

Shirley Condra Memorial Scholarship:
Gabrielle Holman
 
OOIDA Scholarship:
Jade Stone
 
Releve Performing Arts Scholarship:
Gabrielle Holman
 
MSHSAA Sportsmanship Award Scholarship:
Owen Herbert
Keagan Hart
Ella Clyman
Keili Stevens

US Marine Corps: Scholastic Excellence Award:
Yumiko Chen
 
US Marine Corps: The Distinguished Athlete Award:
Jake Allen
 
US Marine Corps: Semper Fidelis Award for Musical Excellence:
Lori Bickham
 
Grain Valley Sports League Athletic Scholarship:
Jackson Stewart
Josie Adams
 
Grain Valley Alumni Association Scholarship:
Mackenzie Keller
Kayley Coney
Makayla Dyer

Liquid Soap Products LTD GVHS Scholarship 4 Year College:
Cameryn Bown
 
H. Gene and Michael Gene Butler Memorial Scholarship:
Mattie Allen
 
KC Scholars-Grain Valley Education Foundation Scholarship:
Yumiko Chen
 
KC Scholars Traditional Awards:
Lynette Jones
 
Shelter Insurance Foundation Agents Scholarship:
Rhea'leigh Stanley
 
Adrienne Barber GVHS Scholarship:
Ava Lin
Emmalee Lockwood
 
Elks Most Valuable Student Scholarship:
Lillian Cassidy
 
Phil Roberts Scholarship:
Yumiko Chen
Owen Herbert
Ava Lin
Jade Stone 
 
The Ellis Foundation Scholarship:
Gabrielle Holman
Madison Rogers
Kayla Rolley
 
Masonic Lodge Merit Undergraduate Scholarship:
Lillian Cassidy
 
Nicholas V. Mortallaro, State Farm Agent-Francis Anzalone Memorial Scholarship:
Carter Bohanon
Alayna Patel
Rhea'leigh Stanley
Kaitlynn Goosey

Truman Heartland Community Foundation Blue Springs Rotary Scholarship:
Jade Stone
Carmen Myers

Mary J. Szczepanski "Never Give Up" MS Scholarship Foundation:
Adelyn Bybee
 
The P.E.O. International Star Scholarship:
Lillian Cassidy
 
Doctors of St. Mary’s Scholarship:
Gabrielle Holman

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GVHS seniors were presented with $146,900 in scholarships during the May 10th local scholarship awards ceremony on May 10th at Grain Valley High School. Photo credit: Grain Valley Schools
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Making Sense of College Costs and Financial Aid

5/4/2023

 
(StatePoint) That moment when your child receives an acceptance letter to a coveted college is a time to feel pride in their achievements and excited about their future. It’s also a time to make sense of the school’s price tag. That’s where financial award letters come into play.

“You’ll receive an award letter from each school your student was accepted to listing all the details of the financial aid package,” says Angela Colatriano, College Ave Student Loans. “This information helps you figure out what’s covered and how much your family is expected to pay.”

Unfortunately, if you’re like many parents, you may not be prepared for everything you read in these award letters. In a recent College Ave Student Loans survey, only 30% of parents who received award letters said they received as much aid as they expected, and 74% said they found the expected family contribution surprisingly high. Colatriano also notes that because the layout of these letters varies from school to school, it can be hard to compare their terms.

To help you decipher your financial aid award letters and figure out how to pay for college this fall, consider these tips and insights:

1. Sort grants and scholarships from other aid: If your child was awarded a federal grant or scholarships from the college, they will be listed on your award letter. These do not need to be repaid and are applied directly to the school’s tuition. You can also pursue outside scholarships. 

2. Delve into federal aid: The award letters will show you if your student qualified for the Federal Work-Study program. Likewise, schools will list any federal student loans you’re eligible to receive. Don’t forget to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year to qualify.

3. Meet the gap: If after accounting for grants, scholarships and federal aid there is still a gap between school costs and what you can afford, consider how you can reduce costs or get more funding. For example, you may reconsider your choice of school or have your student take on a part-time job. You might also want to shop around for a private student loan. If you do so, make sure you borrow only what you need. Also, look for a lender offering favorable terms, repayment options and interest rates. 

4. Look before you leap: Remember that most types of financial aid come with terms and conditions. For example, a scholarship may require a student to maintain a certain GPA for it to be renewed the following semester. Federal and private loans will have interest rates and repayment terms. Before accepting or pursuing any type of financial aid, be sure you understand what’s involved.

5. Get assistance: When in doubt, don’t be afraid to reach out to your school’s financial aid office for assistance. They are a great resource to help you and your family navigate the financial aid process.

“With so many competing financial pressures, it’s more important than ever for college-bound families to understand the ins and outs of their financial aid offers and what they’re responsible to cover each year,” Colatriano said.
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Missouri’s governor made access to child care a top priority. Where do his proposals stand?

5/4/2023

 
by Clara Bates, Missouri Independent 
Missouri Gov. Mike Parson made improving access to child care a major part of his 2023 legislative agenda, declaring during his annual State of the State address in January that “early childhood care is essential to our state’s success.”

Since then, lawmakers have worked to enact his recommendations, but the proposals have faced roadblocks on their way to his desk. 

The Missouri General Assembly adjourns for the year at 6 p.m. on May 12. Here are where Parson’s major child care priorities stand: 
  • $56 million to expand pre-k to all four-year-olds eligible for free or reduced-price lunch: The House’s version of the budget removed this funding — some lawmakers raised concerns school districts wouldn’t be ready to host pre-k, or that it was too costly, and others argued a universal program would be fairer. The funding was restored by the Senate, and most expect it to remain as lawmakers finish up their work on the state’s $50 billion budget this week.
 
  • $78 million to increase child subsidy rates: The House also removed this from its budget only to see the Senate restore it. Critics of the increase argued the rates had been improperly set. This funding is also expected to remain in the budget when it heads to the governor for his signature.
Parson has also pushed to create tax credits to “improve child care facilities, support employers who support their workers with child care assistance, and allow more of our dedicated child care workers to earn a pay increase.”
Unlike his budget proposals, the tax credits face a more uncertain future due to opposition from conservative lawmakers in the Senate. 
  • A child care contribution tax credit, which would allow donors to child care providers to receive a credit equal to 75% of a qualifying donation, up to a $200,000 tax credit. 
 
  • Employer-provided child care assistance tax credit, which would allow employers to receive tax credits equivalent to 30% of qualifying child care expenditures.
 
  • Child care providers tax credit, which would allow child care providers to claim a tax credit equal to the provider’s employer withholding tax and up to 30% of a provider’s capital expenditures on costs like expanding or renovating their facilities. 
 
  • The Supporting Use of Child Care for Economic Stability and Security (SUCCESS) Tax Credit, while not a part of Parson’s agenda, was added onto a bill that includes the other three credits. It’s sponsored by Rep. Hannah Kelly and would provide parents up to $1,800 per year, per child, in child care refunds. ​
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Board of Education meeting recap

4/27/2023

 
​    The Board of Education met Thursday, April 20th for its regularly scheduled meeting.
     Recognitions at the beginning of the meeting included recognition of 2023 support staff member of the year Julie Bunton, GVHS senior Evan Reich for his selection as a 2023 Missouri Scholars 100, culinary arts student Peyton Bell who placed second in state competition, student Lynette Jones who placed 3rd in physical therapy at the Health Occupations Students of America state competition, and Fort Osage CTC automotive students Carson Davis and Tanner Todd for their gold medal honors in Job Skill Demonstration A and Mobile Electronics Installation.
     During public comments, resident and current alderman Dale Arnold presented concerns regarding the recently passed $32 million bond issue, raising questions regarding district plans to utilize premium or par bonds, and encouraging the board to be good stewards of tax dollars.
     Mary Porter and Mandi Pollard introduced themselves as chair and co-chair of the Jackson County Moms for Liberty chapter, stating that representatives planned to attend each meeting.
     “Moms for Liberty is dedicated to fighting for the survival of America by unifying, educating and empowering parents to defend their parental rights at all levels of government,” Pollard said.
     Pollard outlined the organization’s stand on the responsibilities of parents and schools in educating students.
     “It is not the school’s responsibility to withhold information from parents of what is happening in the classroom, the playground, the sports field, or any other place. Moms for Liberty will be watching for transparency, and we are here to hold the schools and the school board accountable for this. As concerned parents, we will always approach you, the school board, with respect for your position, and a willingness to work together to build mutual trust.”
     District teacher Mendi Spencer asked the board to reconsider a policy change related to a curriculum review committee and the wording contained therein. Spencer maintained the policy change was unnecessary, unfeasible, and does not address parent concerns.
     Superintendent Brad Welle reported district staff have now relocated to the recently completed leadership center.
     In reviewing the district’s progress toward outlined priorities, pay and benefits as compared to other districts were discussed. A $1500 increase to the district’s base on the salary schedule will be presented to the board in June.
     Sni-Valley graduation will be held May 18th; Grain Valley High School graduation is set for May 22nd.
     Under new business, the board approved grant funding from three sources. The first grant, a DESE School Safety Grant, totaling $300,000, will be utilized to update surveillance cameras and install chain link fencing at elementary schools. A DESE Immediate Responsive Services grant in the amount of $58,331 will be used to hire a family school liaison. Third, a Children’s Services Fund grant totaling $300,000 payable over a three-year period, will be used for training and resources for teachers.
     The board approved the addition of three new staff positions: a family-school liaison, kindergarten teacher for 2023-24, and an immediate paraprofessional opening.
     The board also approved the purchase of a Frontline Education software subscription, which includes comparative analytics software to allow the district to compare themselves to other districts in the area. Assistant Superintendent Nick Gooch explained the service will allow the district to see where they are lacking and assist in building a new salary schedule. 
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Registration open for Safe sitter class

4/27/2023

 
     Central Jackson County Fire Protection District (CJCFPD) will host a Safe Sitter babysitting class on May 27th from 9:00am - 4:00pm. Participants will be taught life and safety skills for staying home alone while babysitting.
     The course offers knowledge on the developmental stages of children, basic first aid, CPR, choking hazards, and diaper changing. The course is designed for students in grade 6-8 but is beneficial for older students as well. The program cost is $75, which includes the student textbook and course completion certificate. All students will receive instruction in American Heart Association Heartsaver CPR/First Aid, and have the option to purchase a CPR certification car for an additional $20.
     The student will need to provide their own lunch and snacks for the day, refrigerators are available if needed.
     To register, please call JCJFPD at 816-463-8540 or email classreg@cjcfpd.org. 
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