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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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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.’”   Photo credit: Grain Valley Schools 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 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.”  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 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.  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  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 (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.  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:
Unlike his budget proposals, the tax credits face a more uncertain future due to opposition from conservative lawmakers in the Senate.
 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. 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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