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PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Lee’s Summit, MO 64063 Permit Number 71 R-7 Board of Education 301 N.E. Tudor Road Lee’s Summit, MO 64086 816-986-1000 INSIDE ! Eight seniors named National Merit finalists | 8 ! Three file for two seats on Board of Education | 3 ! Dr. David Sharp named state’s Principal of the Year | 11 ECRWSS Postal Customer SPECIAL ELECTION ISSUE Our Schools Lee’s Summit R-7 School District’s Community Newspaper MARCH 2015 Proudly presented by the No-tax-increase bond issue on April 7 ballot for Lee’s Summit R-7 schools From the superintendent Lee’s Summit R-7 voters will cast ballots on a no-tax-increase bond issue as well as Board of Education candidates on Tuesday, April 7. Polls are open 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. The $40 million issue includes: • Construction of a new Summit Technology Academy / Missouri Innovation Campus • Numerous school improvements in the areas of classroom instruction, safety and security, health and wellness, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) renovations and special education • Playground safety upgrades to all elementary schools’ soft play areas and replacement of deteriorated play equipment • Maintenance projects at numerous sites designed to protect the district’s investment in its school facilities. The no-tax-increase issue was reviewed by the district’s Citizens’ Advisory Committee, Business Roundtable and PTA Council with each group providing feedback on the recommended components. New Summit Technology Academy / Missouri Innovation Campus A major portion of the bond issue would include construction David McGehee Involving the community in April ballot issue BOND ISSUE | page 16 LS R-7 receives Ethics in Business Award at Mayor’s Character Breakfast The R-7 School District received the annual Ethics in Business Award Jan. 22 during the Mayor’s Character Breakfast. The award is presented by Lee’s Summit CARES. The Ethics in Business Award is a community-wide recognition presented to Lee’s Summit businesses and individuals who exhibit outstanding ethical practices. To be considered for the Ethics in Business Award, an organization Dr. David McGehee is Lee’s Summit R-7 School District superintendent and a Lee’s Summit resident COMMENTARY $40 million issue would benefit all students and schools, expand nationally recognized program, protect investment in facilities and save money or individual must complete a comprehensive application, obtain references and administer a survey to employees. Dr. David McGehee and members of the R-7 Board of Education accepted the award on behalf of the district’s staff members, students and families. During the presentation, Dr. McGehee praised the district’s almost 2,600 employees and R-7 students as well as the entire community for their important roles in the successful school system. The Lee’s Summit R-7 School District has a long history of involving the community in decisions impacting our students and citizens. The upcoming April 7 no-tax-increase bond issue is no exception, and the development of this issue included input from our school principals as well as several stakeholder groups. In early 2014, R-7 administration began discussions with officials at the University of Central Missouri (UCM) about partnering on a facility that would house our school district’s Summit Technology Academy / MCGEHEE | page 16 Fully accredited school district – Winner of state’s Distinction in Performance Award Page 2 March 2015 Park University 2015 CAMPUS VISIT DAYS Discover and explore all we can offer you at an exciting Park University event or a personal campus experience. SPRING PIRATE PREVIEW Get hooked. Stay hooked. Join us for one of our Spring Pirate Preview events. Juniors starting college in Fall 2016 are invited to one of these special days to help you get a jump start on your college decision. The visit will begin with light refreshments along with an introduction and welcome to our campus. You will then have the opportunity to mingle with our devoted faculty and staff. We have representatives from every department eager to speak with you and help you decide where you fit in as a Park Pirate! Then, an admissions counselor will provide you with a fun and informative presentation about the admission process and the various scholarships Park offers. Following the presentation, you will receive a guided tour of our historical, charming campus from one of our Student Ambassadors. Please join us and take advantage of this opportunity to explore all things Park U! • APRIL 25, 2015 JUNIOR OVERNIGHT EXPERIENCE PERSONAL CAMPUS EXPERIENCE High school juniors are invited to experience the life of a Pirate during an overnight visit at Park U. During this visit you will spend the night on campus with Park student hosts and experience life on campus “after hours.” The overnight experience begins Friday afternoon and concludes Saturday after our Pirate Preview Day. Make any day your visit day. Tour the Parkville Campus, meet faculty, talk with current students and discover historic Parkville. • APRIL 24, 2015 To RSVP or for more information please contact Admissions: (816) 746-2533 or parkvilleadmissions@park.edu. You can also visit us on the web at www.park.edu/visit March 2015 Page 3 Three file for two seats on Board of Education Check out a five-minute video about April 7 no-tax-increase bond issue Three candidates have filed for two positions on the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District Board of Education. Filing closed for R-7 Board of Education candidates on Jan. 20. Candidates (listed in filing order) are Julie Doane, Adam Rutherford and William Lindsey. Current Board of Education members Ron Baker and Patti Buie did not file as candidates. Mrs. Buie has served on the Board of Education since 2000. Mr. Baker, who currently serves as the Board’s president, was elected in 2009. The Board of Education election will be held April 7. For more information about the R-7 Board of Education, visit www.lsr7.org/schoolboard/board-members/. Board of Education members are elected to three-year terms during at-large elections. To view a five-minute video about the R-7 School District’s April 7 no-tax-increase bond issue, visit the district’s website at http://tinyurl. com/klalouo. This web page also includes comprehensive information about the bond issue and a question-and-answer document as well as voter registration and absentee voting information. Info about absentee voting If you or a family member will be out of town on April 7, you may cast an absentee ballot in person at the county election office or by mail. Beginning Feb. 24, Jackson County voters may cast their absentee ballot at the Jackson County Election Office just off the Independence Square. Anyone planning to be out of town on election day may vote at the office, which is open 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., until April 6. Contact the Jackson County office for absentee voting times on Saturdays before the election date. Cass County has similar Saturday procedures with information available on the county’s website at www.casscounty.com/clerk/voting.html. Page 4 March 2015 Questions and answers about the April 7 Lee’s Summit R-7 School District No-Tax-Increase $40 Million Bond Issue How was this school bond issue placed on the ballot? The April 7, 2015, no-tax-increase bond issue was unanimously approved for placement on the ballot by the R-7 Board of Education on Jan. 22. Components of the bond issue were based on recommendations from school principals as well as an architects’ audit identifying facility needs across the district. The no-tax-increase issue was also reviewed by the district’s Citizens’ Advisory Committee, Business Roundtable and PTA Council with each group providing valuable feedback on the recommended components. How would the school district utilize the no-tax-increase bond issue? The $40 million issue includes (using approximate dollar figures): • Construction of a new Summit Technology Academy / Missouri Innovation Campus with University of Central Missouri funding 60 percent of the total cost. R-7’s share of the building (40 percent) paid by the bond: $17.5 million • Numerous school improvements in the areas of classroom instruction, safety and security, health and wellness, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) renovations and special education: $5.44 million • Maintenance projects at numerous sites designed to protect the district’s investment in its school facilities such as flooring, carpet, ceilings, painting, roofing, paving, mechanical, doors, windows, FOBS, backflows, water sanitizing and masonry. These projects also include playground safety upgrades to all elementary schools’ soft play areas and replacement of deteriorated play equipment: $17.06 million What is the official ballot language for this issue? Official ballot language for the no-taxincrease bond issue follows. QUESTION Shall the Reorganized School District No. 7 of Jackson County, Missouri board of education borrow money in the amount of $40,000,000 for the purpose of acquiring land, constructing, furnishing and equipping a new building initially to be used for Summit Technology Academy and the Missouri Innovation Campus, completing safety enhancements and deferred maintenance, and constructing school facilities, building additions to and repairing, remodeling, renovating and improving existing district facilities and furnishing and equipping the same and issue bonds for the payment thereof resulting in no increase to the debt service levy? If this proposition is approved, the debt service levy of the school district is estimated to remain unchanged at $1.0700 per one hundred dollars assessed valuation of real and personal property. What is involved in construction of a new Summit Technology Academy / Missouri Innovation Campus and how does the partnership work? Through the partnership with the University of Central Missouri, Lee’s Summit R-7 will save money for taxpayers while creating a school designed specifically for the needs of all students. Partnering with the University of Central Missouri (UCM), R-7 would construct an approximately 140,000-square-foot school that will replace a currently leased space and save money. Through this partnership, R-7 and UCM will construct and operate a shared educational facility housing R-7’s Summit Technology Academy, including the nationally recognized Missouri Innovation Campus, as well as UCM programs currently located in the University’s Summit Center. This shared facility will reduce operating expenses for the R-7 School District, allowing the district to move the school from a leased space into a building owned solely by the school district. It is estimated that the district will save close to $9 million over the next 20 years based on trading leased space for a district-owned school. Approximately $17.5 million of the facility’s cost would be funded through passage of the bond issue, and this is around 40 percent of the facility’s total cost. UCM would pay the remaining 60 percent, and R-7 would be the sole owner. If approved by at least four-sevenths of voters, construction on a new STA / MIC facility would begin soon after the April election with the new school opening in August 2017. Where would the new Summit Technology Academy / Missouri Innovation Campus be located? The R-7 Board of Education approved a letter of intent to purchase land for the new facility at its Feb. 19 meeting. The 15-acre parcel is located adjacent to the Summit Technology Campus, the business complex also housing the current STA / MIC in leased space. The land for the new school is located near Ward and Tudor Road. What projects are included in the bond issue for elementary schools? Elementary major projects total $4.0675 million and include: • Greenwood Elementary ADA access and gym renovation • Hazel Grove Elementary kitchen renovation • Longview Farm Elementary concrete at kindergarten wings • Lee’s Summit Elementary health room renovation, drop-off lane and kitchen renovation • Meadow Lane Elementary track upgrade/repair and basement renovation • Mason Elementary gym expansion, classroom renovation, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) access • Pleasant Lea Elementary health room/ office renovation • Prairie View Elementary north gym isolation • Richardson Elementary additional parking • Trailridge Elementary restroom sink replacement CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE March 2015 Page 5 classroom restrooms • Miller Park Center upstairs renovation, gym floor upgrade and kitchenette *NOTE: Additional special-education projects are included within the $17.06 million designated for maintenance projects at numerous schools. • Underwood Elementary cafeteria renovation. *NOTE: Additional elementary projects are included within the $17.06 million designated for maintenance projects at numerous schools. What projects are included for middle schools? Middle school major projects total $328,000 and include: • Bernard Campbell student entry doors replacement and locker painting • Pleasant Lea locker replacement • Summit Lakes sound system. *NOTE: Additional middle-school projects are included within the $17.06 million designated for maintenance projects at numerous schools. What major projects are included for high schools? High school major projects total $850,000 and include: • Lee’s Summit High School science classrooms renovation What is included in the maintenance projects at numerous schools? • Lee’s Summit North High School entry re-design (safety/security) • Lee’s Summit West High School restrooms/concession area for baseball and softball area (completes projects included in original school design) *NOTE: Additional high-school projects are included within the $17.06 million Kathy Rolfe is a Silver Life Master, American Bridge Teacher Associa tion (ABTA) Master Teacher, 2013 and 2014 Finalist for Teacher of the Year, and an American Contract Bridge League (ACBL) Teacher Accredi tation Program (TAP) instructor—she teaches bridge players how to teach bridge! Kathy taught bridge in many of the Lee’s Summit R7 ASPIRE classes from 2002 – 2011. Contact Kathy www. email at or call Beginning Bridge Classes This Spring! Lessons At: Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 1800 SW 150 Highway, Lee’s Summit, MO Sundays 24, April 12—May 17 ♣Play as you learn lessons for novice, intermedi Mondays 1 –3, April 13—May 18 ate, and advanced players. Don’t know one suit Cost: $12 per person except for 1st lesson from another? Don’t worry, we can start from ( !) there! Already play duplicate bridge? We can help you learn even more! Repeat a lesson for just $2 ◊Earn silver masterpoints Pay as you go, no need to sign up ahead of time. ♥Tour the campus. Stay in college dorms. Eat at These are beginning classes but if you already know a lit the campus cafeteria. Get a feel for college life! tle bridge and don’t feel like you need the first few ♠Tour the Walter Cronkite Memorial classes, that’s OK! Skip those and come to the later ones, ♣Bring your own basketballs, footballs, volley although you’ll learn something new in every class, even if balls, and Frisbees for some outdoor fun. you’ve played this game before. Same lesson on Monday as ◊Get ready for the talent show. ♥Bring board games to play during free time. was given on Sunday. Need to hear and see it again—no problem take the class again! Cost $350, deadline June 13. Download registra tion form from WannaPlayBridge.com Same lesson on Monday as was given on Sunday! Call or email Kathy with questions! #1: #2: #3: #4: #5: #6: April 12 April 19 April 26 May 3 May 10 May 17 April 13 April 20 April 27 May 4 May 11 May 18 Intro—Basics, Mechanics, Let’s Play Opening bids at the 1 Level Responding to an Opening Bid of 1NT Responding to an Opening 1♥or 1♠ Responding to an Opening 1♣ or 1◊ Review—Mix it up! A peek at competing for the Bid designated for maintenance projects at numerous schools. What major projects are included in the area of special education? Special education major projects total $194,500 and include: • Highland Park Elementary life skills A total of $17.06 million is earmarked for maintenance projects designed to protect the district’s investment in its schools. These projects will positively impact each school within the district and include: • Playground safety upgrades to all elementary schools’ soft play areas and replacement of deteriorated play equipment • Maintenance projects at numerous schools including flooring, carpet, ceilings, painting, roofing, paving, mechanical, doors, windows, FOBS, backflows, water sanitizing and masonry. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE “Where Learning Is Fun!” Sarah and Mike Walker with sons Brooks and Hayes “Sunday and Tuesday nights are always exciting at our house. It’s from the anticipation of going to Appletree the next day. Our son loves everything he learns, his teacher and the friends in his class that he refers to as his “family.” We have been extremely happy with Appletree Academy. The teachers make learning fun and exciting through play and structured activities, and they truly care about each student. What a positive place to start a life-long love of learning!” Sarah Walker, 4th Grade Teacher at Meadow Lane Elementary Mike Walker, Social Studies Teacher at Summit Lakes Middle School Academic Preschool for ages 3-5 LL ENRO ! Jan McDonough, BS. Ed, Owner/Director. Preparing Children For Kindergarten since 1994 NOW (816) 537-5659 www.AppletreeAcademy.biz Page 6 March 2015 Happy Spring STEPPIN’ OUT THE STUDIO E SINC 9 198 Phyllis Balagna, Owner/Director Spring Enrollment Begins April 6 Ages 2 and up How many students would be impacted by approval of the bond issue? All students within the school district would be impacted by the bond issue since projects included are designed to benefit all schools. In addition, the approximately $9 million in savings estimated by trading leased space for an owned facility for the Summit Technology Academy / Missouri Innovation Campus would impact each school, program and student. How is it possible to fund a bond issue without increasing taxes? The R-7 School District has experienced significant enrollment growth over the past few decades and has completed many school construction projects using bond funds. These funds are part of the district’s debt service account and are included in the overall tax-rate levy. As bond debt is paid off and retired, newly approved bond issues take the place of the old building debt, maintaining over the past 16 years the same tax levy of $1.07 per $100 assessed value for debt service. Through careful planning and management of the debt payoff schedule, the school district is able to place no-taxincrease bond issues on the ballot while also staying within the state’s required bonding capacity for school districts (15 percent of the district’s total assessed valuation). If approved by voters, how long would it take to pay off these bonds? When the bond issue is sold, the exact term will be determined. Currently, we are planning on approximately 20 years to pay off this issue. OPEN HOUSE and DAY OF DANCE Saturday, May 2nd 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free & open to children ages 2 1/2 - 20 Meet the staff, tour the facility and take classes: Tap • Jazz • Ballet • Hip Hop • Musical Theatre • Acting Tumbling • Contemporary • Acrobatics • Cheer • Voice DANCE FOR FUN! DANCE FOR LIFE! 816-525-7464 750 NW Main St. Lee’s Summit www.steppinoutthestudio.com What efforts have been made by the R-7 School District to contain costs and find alternative methods to provide facilities for growth needs? Lee’s Summit R-7’s top priority is to provide each child with a quality education, making budget decisions with the least possible impact on students. The district has implemented cost COST CONTAINMENT TOTALING $100 MILLION FROM 2008-2015 containment in excess of $100 million from 2008-09 through 2014-15 to make up for reductions in state funding as well as losses in revenue from local property taxes. The R-7 School District has been a leader in seeking innovative and creative methods to finance facilities and pay for district programs and needs. Since 2008, R-7 has saved taxpayers close to $35.7 million through performance contracts, alternative resources, partnerships and low-interest energy-saving loans with an additional $11 million in savings recently finalized through bond series re-financing this year. What type of majority is required for approval of the bond issue? Voter approval of the no-tax-increase bond issue requires a four-sevenths majority or 57.14 percent. If the bond issue is not approved, would taxpayers see an immediate decline in their property taxes? No. The existing general-obligation debt of the district and long-term needs for future bond projects is structured to require the $1.07 levy and takes into consideration fluctuations in the assessed values within the district. Based on longrange debt planning, the $1.07 is required to fund existing debt commitments. How long has it been since voters approved a Lee’s Summit R-7 bond issue? The last Lee’s Summit R-7 bond issue was approved in 2010. This was also a no-tax-increase issue. If you need additional information on the April election issue, visit the R-7 website at www.lsr7.org” www.lsr7.org and select “No-tax-increase Bond Issue.” Paid for by the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District Dr. David McGehee, Superintendent, 301 NE Tudor Road, Lee’s Summit, MO 64086 March 2015 Page 7 Summit Technology Academy/Missouri Innovation Campus: Preparing students for college and high-demand careers with the help of higher education and business partnerships No-tax-increase bond issue includes construction of new facility for this nationally recognized program The R-7 School District opened Summit Technology Academy in 1999 with the goal to prepare students for college and high-demand careers. Over the past 15 years, Summit Tech has grown from just 26 students in one program to a school offering 14 programs and serving approximately 450 students from 11 school districts. Students are enrolled in courses such as information technology, networking, health services, international studies, digital media, education and engineering. Sending school districts from the metropolitan area pay tuition to Lee’s Summit R-7 for their students who enroll in R-7’s Summit Technology Academy programs. The Missouri Innovation Campus is a component of Summit Technology Academy and is operated by Lee’s Summit R-7 in partnership with UCM, Metropolitan Community College and industry-leading businesses. The MIC has been recognized nationally for accelerating the time it takes students to graduate from college while dramatically reducing the cost of a four-year degree. MIC students earn their associate degree just after high-school graduation, receiving their bachelor’s degree two years later – all while participating in high-tech paid internships. Currently, the Missouri Innovation Campus includes approximately 55 students involved in three programs within three cohorts. The Missouri Innovation Campus and Summit Technology Academy are both outgrowing the current facility, located within the Summit Technology Campus business complex. The R-7 School District has leased space for Summit Tech at a favorable rate due to a tax abatement for the local Time to enroll 5-11 year olds Totally fun day camp open all summer! Lee’s Summit Parks & Recreation Includes Summit Waves Season Pass! Visit campsummit.net for form & more info. SAVE $10 on Summit Waves Season Passes business center that dates back to the late 1990s. This low-cost lease will expire when the business facility comes onto the tax rolls in 2018, and R-7 officials have been looking for an alternative that will be both more affordable and designed specifically for the educational programs. Since early in 2014, leaders from Lee’s Summit R-7 and UCM have been discussing a shared facility that would provide a solution to the growth challenges faced at Summit Technology Academy and Missouri Innovation Campus as well as at the UCM Summit Center. Through an agreement approved by both R-7 and UCM governing boards, the two educational organizations would share space and equipment, saving money for the local school district and the university. Plans call for the new school to be funded by both organizations with Lee’s Summit R-7 paying approximately 40 percent and UCM paying approximately 60 percent (through its lease). R-7 and UCM would share in the cost of operating and maintaining the facility. when you purchase by April 30 Birthday Party Packages as low as $155! Includes 15 Summit Waves admissions plus 45 minutes in a designated area & 15 frozen treats! Check availability & reserve online! summitwaves.net Stingrays Swim Team Sign up today! Ages 6-10 and 11-17 Early Bird registration ends 5/13 816.969.1500 • lsparks.net Page 8 March 2015 LS Educational Foundation hosts Taste of Lee’s Summit to benefit R-7 schools and students Annual event raises $125,000 The Lee’s Summit Educational Foundation hosted the 16th annual Taste of Lee’s Summit on March 7 to raise money in support of excellence in education in the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District community. Held at The Pavilion at John Knox Village, the event raised an estimated $125,000. The popular, sold-out event included both live and silent auctions, a Flower Power Grand Prize Board, a Dine-Around Package and an opportunity to help provide classroom PEAK Grants and technology through the Fund-A-Cause portion of the evening which showcased and exceeded a matching $5,000 grant opportunity from the H.B. Oppenheimer Foundation. The Foundation also shared information on how to become a Legacy Donor through estate and/or endowment gifts. More than 630 guests and 75 volunteers also had the opportunity to sample cuisine from the following businesses: Bleu Burger, ‘Bout Thyme Deli, Costa Vida, Edible Arrangements, The Egg & I, Fig Tree Cafe and Bakery, Habanero’s, Longhorn Steakhouse, Mingle, Neighborhood Cafe, Outback Steakhouse, Summit Grill and Bar, Summit Hickory Pit BBQ, Waldo Pizza, Yogurtini, County Beverage Company, Hy-Vee and Post Coffee Company. Volunteer event co-chairs were Bill Baird and Chip Moxley. A number of area organizations also generously helped sponsor Taste of Lee’s Summit, including annual Friends of the Foundation Sponsors at five different participation levels. Superintendent’s Circle Sponsors include CCR Roofing, JE Dunn, Bob and Marlese Gourley, Legacy Touch, Major Saver, Meyer Music, H.B. Oppenheimer Foundation, Paradise Park, Jane and Bob Rutherford, Chris and Audra Storms, Summit Custom Homes, LLC and Tingle Flooring. Benefactor sponsors include George K. Baum & Co., CBIZ, CEAH Realtors, GEHA, Landers’ Vision, Metcraft Industries and Steve and Kristy Young. Leader sponsors include Kent and Wendie Kirby, Saint Luke’s East Hospital and Summit Bank of Kansas City. Patron sponsors include Arvest Bank, Atcheson Lawn and Landscape, BAIRD LS R-7 bond re-financing to save over $11 million Lee’s Summit R-7 current and future students will benefit for years to come thanks to the school district’s re-financing of general-obligation bonds. Based on the re-financing, approved by the Board of Education at its Feb. 26 meeting, it is estimated that the district will save $11.2 million in interest costs until the bonds are paid. R-7 officials have worked over the last few months with investment bankers to secure lower interest rates for this costsaving effort. At the February meeting, the Board of Education approved a resolution authorizing the refinancing of bonds sales from 2005 and 2008. Total amount being re-financed is $71.78 million resulting in a lowered interest rate averaging 2 percent. These bonds were originally approved by voters in previous years as part of notax-increase bond issues that paid for new schools and facilities as well as improvements to existing schools. The re-financing is part of the district’s on-going efforts to reduce costs and is one example of the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District’s continual focus on fiscal stewardship. Since 2008, the district has saved taxpayers close to $47 million through performance contracts, alternative resources, partnerships, lowinterest energy-savings loans and bond re-financing. Frank and Teresa White sample cuisine at Taste of Lee’s Summit. Group Real Estate, Bank of Lee’s Summit, Capital Construction, Carl and Jean Chinnery, Central Bank of the Midwest, Commerce Bank, DLR Group, Edson Research LLC, Larry and Trish Frevert, Hollis & Miller Architects, Jerome and Toni Horne, Hy-Vee, Dr. David McGehee, Thomas E. Moore, DDS, P.C., Piper Jaffray and Company, Stu and Teera Rogers, Charles and Beth Rosemergey Orth, Steppin’ Out - The Studio, Jim and Mary Stilley, UMB Bank/Financial Corporation, Greg and Anna Vahrenberg, Bob and Candy White. Event sponsors include Brad and Sandy Cox, University of Central Missouri, Dave Cross Motors, Minsky’s Pizza and Hunt Midwest. The Lee’s Summit Educational Foundation is a non-profit, 501c3 organization established to raise and manage resources in order to expand and initiate educational opportunities for Lee’s Summit R-7 students and staff. For more information, contact Sheryl Franke, Foundation Director at 816-986-1015 or visit www.lsedfoundation.com. Eight students named National Merit Scholarship finalists Eight Lee’s Summit R-7 seniors were recently named National Merit Scholarship Corporation finalists. Students recognized are Lana Tuong, Lee’s Summit North High School; and Elise Blegen, Cooper Leabo, Ethan Payne, John Reuss, Kayla Shaeffer, Allison Tsay and Franklin Zhong, Lee’s Summit West High School. The students were named National Merit Scholarship Corporation semifinalists last fall. Recognized students have the opportunity to continue in the competition for approximately 8,200 National Merit Scholarship Awards, worth close to $33 million, to be offered this spring. There are approximately 15,000 finalists throughout the United States. Founded in 1955 to conduct the annual Merit Scholarship competition, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation is a privately financed, not-for-profit corporation that operates without government assistance. Nearly 1.5 million students throughout the United States entered the 2015 Merit Program as juniors by taking the preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, which serves as an initial screen of program entrants. March 2015 Page 9 Lee’s Summit R-7 and UCM recognize unique partnership setting stage for construction of shared educational facility at community event New Summit Technology Academy / Missouri Innovation Campus also included in R-7 April 7 no-tax-increase bond issue Lee’s Summit community members celebrated a unique partnership opportunity involving the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District and the University of Central Missouri at a Jan. 28 ceremony and open house, held at Summit Technology Academy/ Missouri Innovation Campus. At the special event, leaders from the two educational organizations officially signed a lease agreement that sets the stage for Lee’s Summit R-7 and UCM to develop a unique shared facility designed to serve both highschool and college students. During the ceremony, Dr. David McGehee, Lee’s Summit R-7 superintendent, and Dr. Charles Ambrose, UCM president, discussed the two entities’ successful partnership and plans for the shared building. The event also included presentations from Summit Technology Academy / Missouri Innovation Campus (STA / MIC) students Brett Burasco, Quinn Cosgrove and Annamarie Hurst as well as tours of STA / MIC. Participating in the ceremonial lease signing were Dr. McGehee, Dr. Ambrose, R-7 Board of Education President Ron Baker and UCM Board of Governors Vice President Dr. Gus Wetzel II. Through the legal agreement, R-7 and UCM commit to coordinating and cooperating with one another in order to construct and operate a shared educational facility that will house R-7’s Summit Technology Academy, UCM programs currently located in the university’s Summit Center and the Missouri Innovation Campus. UCM and Lee’s Summit R-7 are partners with Metropolitan Community College (MCC) and a number of industry-leading businesses in the nationally recognized Missouri Innovation Campus (MIC). Through the MIC, located within R-7’s Summit Technology Academy, the partners are reshaping the way students experience education. The new facility is included on the district’s no-tax-increase April 7 bond issue. More information about this issue is included in the pages of this Student Annamarie Hurst speaks about her publication, beginning on page 1. experiences at the unique school. 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HAMILTON, BS, LMT CHRISTINA KARTSONIS-WOLTKAMP Licensed in Arizona and Missouri Certified Educator of Infant Massage – BS/CEIM Call 816.525.7171 to schedule your appointment today. 3450 NE Ralph Powell Rd., Suite A • Lee’s Summit, MO 64064 816-554-1009 630 NE 291 Highway • Lee’s Summit, Missouri • www.wildchildresale.com Mon. - Sat. 9:30 am - 7 pm | Sun 12 pm - 5 pm Page 10 March 2015 Kindergarten teacher helps student get off to a great start Teri Hansen and Megan Webb named R-7 Learning for Life Award winners Student shines at Hawthorn Hill Elementary thanks to kindergarten teacher Most parents worry when they send their littles off to kindergarten... it’s natural and expected. In August 2007, our first child Lanie started kindergarten under circumstances her dad and I hadn’t “planned” for. She’d been diagnosed with ADHD, OCD and Anxiety Disorder and was under evaluation for an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). She was placed in Beth Pickard’s class, and it was the perfect match for Lanie. We knew immediately that Lanie would shine there. In October 2001, she was officially diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome. Change and transition of any kind are hard, but for Lanie they can be debilitating. We were terrified of first grade and Beth knew that. She called us a few days before school started and offered to meet us at Hawthorn Hill Elementary to personally walk Lanie from kindergarten to her new home in first grade. She did this on her personal time for Lanie ... for us. She showed her around, pointed out the things that were the same and different and did whatever she could to reassure all of us that she would be amazing in first grade. Mrs. Pickard is something special and we will forever be grateful to her for taking that walk with us. --Submitted by Terra Barrows The Story Project features personal stories about our students and their accomplishments in school. If you would like to submit a story about your child, visit www.lsr7.org/static/projects/story/. Megan Webb and Teri Hansen were recently named Lee’s Summit R-7 Learning for Life Award winners. Mrs. Hansen, the February winner, is a registered nurse at Lee’s Summit North High School. Mrs. Webb, the March winner, is a teacher at Woodland Elementary. The award is presented to one employee each month who is nominated by co-workers and selected by a staff committee. “Megan has a true passion for teaching,” said a co-worker. “She goes above and beyond to make her students and their families feel welcome and safe within the Woodland community as well as her classroom.” “Teri goes above and beyond to help the children of our district as it relates to health services,” said a colleague. “She demonstrates loyalty, responsibility and a calming attitude. I can always rely on her.” Megan Webb Teri Hansen HABANERO’S Incredible Mexican Food & Superb Margaritas • MADE FROM SCRATCH DAILY • CARRY OUT DRIVE-UP WINDOW • CATERING SERVICE • GREAT HAPPY HOUR Let us Cater Your Graduation Party! PREFERRED PEDIATRICS James K. McEntire, D.O. Noel M. Graham, M.D. Sherri J. Quick, R.N., CPNP Casey Paris, MSN, FNP-C 241 NW McNary Ct | Lee’s Summit, MO 64086 816-554-1008 www.EatAtHabaneros.com 1008 S.E. Blue Parkway, Lee’s Summit, MO (50 Hwy & 291 N.) Coming Soon..... Cinco de Mayo 816-347-0064 www.preferredpediatrics-ls.com March 2015 Page 11 Dr. David Sharp of LSWHS named Missouri High School Principal of the Year Longview Farm Elementary students musically thank R-7 Board of Education members during the Board’s January meeting by singing “Happy.” Longview Farm Elementary students help celebrate Missouri School Board Recognition Week Students from Longview Farm Elementary School helped celebrate Missouri School Board Recognition Week during a special presentation at the Lee’s Summit R-7 Board of Education’s Jan. 22 meeting. The annual recognition week is Jan. 25 through 31 this year. School Board Recognition Week, sponsored by the Missouri School Boards’ Association, recognizes the more than 3,600 school board members across the state. These public servants are elected by local constituents and do not receive compensation for their tireless efforts. R-7 School District Board of Education members are President Ron Baker, Vice President Terri Harmon, Bill Baird, Phyllis Balagna, Patti Buie, Chris Storms and Bob White. Dr. David Sharp, Lee’s Summit West High School principal, was named 2015 Missouri High School Principal of the Year by the Missouri Association of Secondary School Principals (MASSP) during early February. He will be in the running to represent Missouri in the 2016 National Association of Secondary School Principals’ High School Principal of the Year program. MASSP will officially present the award during the annual MASSP Spring Conference on March 30. Dr. Sharp was awarded the recognition based on his impact in the areas of collaborative leadership; curriculum, instruction and assessment; and his personalization of the learning environment. The selection was made from more than 600 high school principals from throughout Missouri. 3 $ Auditions register grAnd prize 4-9 p.m. • April 23 • m CC-longview CulturAl Art s Center fill out An Audition form At by April 15 At lstAlent.Com $5,000 prize AwArdedduring t he f inAl show on J une 13 @ le esummitcAres # g o t tA l e n t 1 5 Dr. David Sharp Dr. Sharp served as assistant principal at Lee’s Summit West from 2004 through 2006 and was the director of Summit Technology Academy before he was named principal at Lee’s Summit West High School. 00 $ OFF ANY CAKE Good only at Douglas St. location. EXPIRES 05-24-14 K8868 1 00 OFF ANY BLIZZARD 16oz or Larger or ANY ROYAL TREAT Good only at Douglas St. location. EXPIRES 05-24-14 400 SE Douglas, Lee’s Summit, MO • 816-524-7470 Not valid with any other offer. Lee’s Summit, Douglas Street location Page 12 March 2015 Teacher’s positive influence will last a lifetime Greenwood Elementary teacher is shining star in student’s life My daughter Jaudae Johnson started Greenwood Elementary back in August 2014. Jaudae was the new kid, and she felt out of place because of the transition to a totally new environment. Jaudae had some struggles in the beginning and throughout the year. But with help from Mrs. Annette Stewart -- including her sternness combined with her warm, compassionate, caring personality – we have seen a big difference. Mrs. Stewart goes above and beyond to make sure that every student is treated equally. Mrs. Stewart helped Jaudae understand and realize who she really is and how much of an influence and impact she can have on her peers. Mrs. Stewart also works with Jaudae to help strengthen her identity, time management skills and life skills. Jaudae has improved so much by being in Mrs. Stewart’s class in terms of academics, attitude, personality and self-control. She is also a better leader. Mrs. Stewart and Jaudae have built such a warm bond that on Jaudae’s birthday Mrs. Stewart surprised Jaudae and showed up. Jaudae just couldn’t believe her eyes when the doorbell rang and I opened the door and on the other side was Mrs. Stewart. She took time out of her busy schedule on her day off to stop by to wish Jaudae a happy birthday. Jaudae was so happy, saying, “Out of all my years in elementary I never had a teacher come to my birthday party. I’m so honored to have a teacher like Mrs. Stewart.” As a parent it makes me feel great that my daughter has a nurturing teacher who will tell her when she’s wrong and also praise her when she’s right. Mrs. Stewart has taught Jaudae so much that will stay with her for the rest of her life. All it takes is one shining star to brighten someone else’s sky and to make a world of difference. That bright star is Mrs. Annette Stewart. Let your light continue to shine now and forever more. Thank you so much, Mrs. Stewart. We love you. From Jaudae Johnson and Family --Submitted by Aisha Thompson Jaudea Johnson with Mrs. Stewart The Story Project features personal stories about our students and their accomplishments in school. If you would like to submit a story about your child, visit www.lsr7.org/static/projects/story/. Highland Park Elementary sixth-grader wins county spelling bee, qualifying for national competition Sophia Hoffman Sophia Hoffman, a sixth-grader at Highland Park Elementary, captured first place Feb. 28 at the Jackson-Clay County Spelling Bee, qualifying for the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Sophia will travel to Washington, D.C., for the national competition, scheduled for May 2429. Sophia, who qualified at her school contest, won after 25 rounds at the Feb. 28 county event in addition to five preliminary rounds held earlier in the month. Sophia and Kush Sharma, an eighth-grader from Kansas City, both captured national attention during spring 2014 after competing against each other in a record-breaking county bee. The initial competition lasted 66 rounds with Sophia and Kush both remaining in the contest after organizers ran out of words. Sophia and Kush, who ultimately won the 2014 county competition, appeared together on “Good Morning America” and “The New Day” show on CNN. They were also on National Public Radio’s “All Things Considered” and “Inside Edition” as well as other national news outlets. In May 2014, Sophia appeared in an entertaining spelling match with Ellen’s producer Andy on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show.” Sophia’s older sister Jordan Hoffman won the Jackson County Spelling Bee three times, participating in the Scripps National Spelling Bee in 2010, 2011 and in 2012, Jordan placed eighth in the final rounds at nationals. In five of the past six consecutive years, Highland Park Elementary has been home to three National Spelling Bee contestants: Sophia Hoffman, Meah Wilburn (2013) and Jordan Hoffman. March 2015 Page 13 SCHOOL OF ROCK offers summer rock music camps for musicians of all skill levels who play guitar, bass, drums, keyboard, and vocals. Students ages 7-18 can develop their musicianship and learn new skills in a creative and fun environment. School of Rock camps emphasize live performance through workshops, clinics, and group rehearsals, where students learn to play together in a band and develop stage presence. Our Summer Camps are a great introduction to School of Rock, or as a complement to our year-round program. Contact us TODAY for a free trial and tour! 1ST MONTH 20%OFF TUITION 33%OFF CAMP Not valid with any other offers. Limit one per customer. Offer expires 04/30/15. SUMMER Not valid with any other offers. Limit one per customer. Offer expires 04/30/15. CONTACT US TO FIND OUT OUR CAMP SCHEDULES AND SPECIAL DISCOUNTS KANSAS CITY 816.842.7625 KANSASCITY.SCHOOLOFROCK.COM LEE’S SUMMIT OVERLAND PARK 816.272.5216 913.642.7625 LEESSUMMIT.SCHOOLOFROCK.COM OVERLANDPARK.SCHOOLOFROCK.COM Page 14 March 2015 R-7 staff members receive Reflections of Character Awards Two Lee’s Summit R-7 staff members were among 12 local citizens receiving Reflections of Character Awards at the Jan. 22 Lee’s Summit Mayor’s Character Breakfast. The awards are presented to community members who are nominated based on character traits. R-7 employees presented with the award are Jamie Rayburn, a teacher of students with special needs at Lee’s Summit West High School, and Ryan Kelley, a Lee’s Summit North High School physicaleducation teacher. Ms. Rayburn was recognized in the category of family for going the extra mile to help one of her student’s family during a time when the family was facing financial and health challenges. Mr. Kelley, who also coaches soccer at LSNHS, was honored in the category of citizenship for helping organize a community-wide youth soccer clinic for children with special needs. In addition to the two staff members, two R-7 students, a former Board of Education member and a retired employee were honored. Benjamin Edwards, a student at Westview Elementary, received a Reflections of Character Award in the category of perseverance. Sophia Hoffman, a student at Highland Park Elementary, received the award in the area of sportsmanship. Nathaniel Cox, also an R-7 student, and Andrew Shields, formerly of Lee’s Summit R-7, were recognized for courage. Carl Chinnery, a former R-7 Board of Education member, received the Lifetime Achievement Award. Retired R-7 staff member Roby Little was presented with the first Lee’s Summit Community Hero Award. Jamie Rayburn Ryan Kelley BASEBALL ACADEMY • Pitching, Hitting and Fielding skills lessons • Batting Cages • Strength Training • Speed, Agility and Quickness Training (816)282-6088 x101 TRAIN MOVE LOOK FEEL COMPETE LIKE AN ATHLETE 800 NW Main Street, Lee’s Summit, Mo 64086 March 2015 Page 15 Deborah Ann Herman Lt Col Nathan D. Flint Dana M. Altieri Oliver F. Hook Amy Elisabeth Rudolph Honorees to be inducted into Lee’s Summit High School Hall of Fame Five distinguished alumni will be inducted into the Lee’s Summit High School Hall of Fame on April 11. Alumni being honored for the 2014-2015 school year are Dana M. Altieri, Class of 1994; Lt Col Nathan D. Flint, Class of 1994; Deborah Ann Herman, Class of 1978; Oliver F. Hook, Class of 1942; and Amy Elisabeth Rudolph, Class of 1987. The distinguished alumni will be recognized at the annual Hall of Fame banquet to be held at 6 p.m. on April 11 at LSHS. Cost per person is $25, and reservations are required. For more information, contact (816) 986-2107 or renee.baxter@lsr7.net. Lee’s Summit High School has inducted distinguished graduates into the school’s Hall of Fame for 19 years. Approximately five alumni are inducted each year during a dinner ceremony. Plaques featuring the honorees are also displayed on the school’s “wall of fame.” The LSHS Hall of Fame inductees are selected by a committee of graduates and staff. Alumni are eligible for this honor 10 years after graduation. Nomination forms for next year are available by calling (816) 986-2000. 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Under the plan, R-7 will pay approximately 40 percent of the new school with UCM paying the remaining 60 percent. Based on the agreement, Lee’s Summit R-7 will be the sole owner of the school which will house Summit Tech / Missouri Innovation Campus (STA / MIC) as well as UCM programs currently located in the UCM Summit Campus. UCM will pay for their space through a rental agreement. The shared facility would reduce operating expenses for the R-7 School District, allowing the district to move STA / MIC from leased space into a building owned by the school district. The R-7 School District has leased space for Summit Tech at a favorable rate due to a tax abatement for a local business center that dates back to the late 1990s. This low-cost lease will expire when the business facility comes onto the tax rolls in 2018, and R-7 officials have been looking for an alternative that will be both more affordable and designed specifically for the growing educational programs. Due to the anticipated increase in rental costs with the expiration of the tax abatement, it is estimated that construction of the shared facility would save approximately $9 million for the school district over the next 20 years. School improvements Approximately $5.44 million within the bond issue would fund improvements at numerous R-7 schools. Elementary improvements include Greenwood Elementary ADA access and gym renovation; Hazel Grove Elementary kitchen renovation; Longview Farm Elementary concrete at kindergarten wings; Lee’s Summit Elementary health room renovation, dropoff lane and kitchen renovation; Meadow Lane Elementary track upgrade/repair and basement renovation; Mason Elementary gym expansion, classroom renovation, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) access; Pleasant Lea Elementary health room/office renovation; Prairie View Elementary north gym isolation; Richardson Elementary additional parking; Trailridge Elementary restroom sink replacement; and Underwood Elementary cafeteria renovation. Middle school improvements include Bernard Campbell student entry doors replacement and locker painting, Pleasant Lea locker replacement and Summit Lakes sound system. High school improvements include Lee’s Summit High School science classrooms renovation, Lee’s Summit North entry re-design (safety/security) and Lee’s Summit West restrooms/concession area for baseball and softball area. Special-education projects include Highland Park Elementary life skills classroom restrooms and Miller Park Center upstairs renovation, gym floor upgrade and kitchenette. Close to $17.06 million in maintenance projects included in the bond issue were identified with the help of school principals and an architects’ audit. These numerous projects would impact each R-7 school. Also included are playground safety upgrades to all elementary schools’ soft play areas and replacement of deteriorated play equipment at each site. Other maintenance projects targeted for schools are flooring, carpet, ceilings, painting, roofing, paving, mechanical, doors, windows, FOBS, backflows, water sanitizing and masonry. Construction schedule If the bond is endorsed by at least foursevenths of R-7 voters, construction on the Summit Technology Academy / Missouri Innovation Campus would begin soon after the election with the new school opening in August 2017. The school improvements and maintenance projects would also begin soon after the election with the majority of projects complete by either fall 2015 or fall 2016. For more information, visit the district’s bond issue web page at: www.tinyurl.com/ klalouo. (Paid for by the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District - Dr. David McGehee, Superintendent, 301 NE Tudor Road, Lee’s Summit, Mo. 64086) Involving community in April ballot issue MCGEHEE | continued from 1 Missouri Innovation Campus (STA / MIC) as well as UCM’s Summit Center. Through this program, we’ve had a successful partnership with UCM and Metropolitan Community College for several years. Examining the possibility of a shared facility seemed a logical next step. As these discussions progressed, it was clear that construction of this shared facility was a win-win for both Lee’s Summit R-7 and UCM. The new school allows our district and the university to move out of leased space and into a facility owned solely by Lee’s Summit R-7. Through a recently approved lease agreement, UCM would fund approximately 60 percent of this new school. The benefit to our district and our taxpayers is significant and would save our district close to $9 million over the next 20 years. This savings is due to both the partnership advantages and the fact that our current greatly reduced rent for STA / MIC would increase dramatically in 2018 when the tax abatement reducing our lease ends. Once we worked out the details of this beneficial partnership, we began to look at other facility needs throughout our school district. Thanks to careful planning and fiscal stewardship, we are able to present a $40 million no-taxincrease bond issue to voters while still ensuring that we would have the bonding capacity to address future growth needs through no-tax-increase issues. Since the district’s share of the new Summit Technology Academy / Missouri Innovation Campus was approximately $17.5 million, we began working with our school principals to determine other facility needs within the district. It has been five years since our district’s last no-tax-increase bond issue, and a number of our schools were in need of building improvements. This plan also utilized an architects’ audit that identified facility needs at our 28 schools. School improvements within the no-tax-increase bond issue total $5.44 million and focus on the areas of classroom instruction, safety and security, health and wellness, Americans with Disabilities Act access and special education. An additional $17.06 million is earmarked for maintenance projects at numerous schools such as flooring, carpet, ceilings, painting, roofing, paving, mechanical, doors, windows, FOBS, backflows, water sanitizing and masonry. This portion of the bond issue also would fund playground safety upgrades to provide all elementary schools with a soft play area while replacing deteriorated play equipment. Earlier this school year, the plan for the bond issue was reviewed by our district’s Citizens’ Advisory Committee, Business Roundtable and PTA Council with all three groups providing favorable feedback. The entire bond issue is designed to meet current and future facility needs and protect our investment in existing schools while taking advantage of a costsaving partnership with the university. The pages of this newspaper contain much more information on this bond issue or you can visit our website at www.lsr7.org. Thank you for your interest and involvement in our school district. We appreciate all you do for the children! March 2015 Page 17 R-7’s Missouri Innovation Campus featured in new book ‘Advancing a Jobs-Driven Economy’ focuses on partnerships The Missouri Innovation Campus was featured in a new book released during February. “Advancing a Jobs-Driven Economy” includes a chapter dedicated to the Missouri Innovation Campus, a partnership operated by the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District, the University of Central Missouri (UCM) and Metropolitan Community College (MCC) with high involvement from industry-leading business. The new book focuses on the employer-driven partnerships demanded by 21st century STEM (science technology engineering math) education and workforce development. The publication includes 62 education, business and non-profit leaders sharing proven models that support the necessary STEM education and workforce development revolution, according to publishers. The book is available on Amazon.com and in bookstores nationwide. Mary Lubaroff Mary Lubaroff receives Educator Award from Missouri association Mary Lubaroff, strings teacher, was recently selected to receive the Elementary Educator Award from the Missouri chapter of the American String Teachers Association (MoASTA). Ms. Lubaroff teaches strings at Bernard Campbell Middle School and Mason, Meadow Lane and Summit Pointe Elementary Schools. Nominated by her colleagues, she was recognized at the MoASTA awards luncheon Jan. 29 in Ozark. EXPERIENCE THE SOUND - EST. 2003 Family Pops Spectacular OUT 0F THIS WORLD MAY 9, 2015 Pre-concert activities at 5:30 p.m. Concert starts at 7:00 p.m. www.lssymphony.org LEES SUMMIT HIGH SCHOOL Bernard C. Campbell Performing Arts Center 400 SE Blue Parkway, LSMO 64063 Adult Tickets $12 & Student Tickets $5 Tickets at LS HyVee stores 4th/5th graders in free with one paid adult admission per student. College students admitted at the student price with valid ID. SUMMER ACTING CLASSES in LEE’S SUMMIT NOW ENROLLING! MCC Longview Campus 500 SW Longview Road Registration & class descriptions online at thecoterie.org or call 816-474-4241 SUMMER SESSION - June 22 - July 31 Week-long half-day and full-day drama classes for students entering grades 3-12; week-long half-day classes for students entering grades K-2. Class options include: Incoming Grades K-2 Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood Imaginary Friend Adventures Incoming Grades 3-5 Monsterologists Shake It Up! Incoming Grades 5-7 Character Study: The Avengers Funny Bones: Intro to Improv Audition Lab Incoming Grades 5-10 Welcome to Musical Theatre Incoming Grades 8-12 Audition Lab Comedy On Your Feet Performance camps include: Incoming Grades 5-8 Charlie & the Chocolate Factory Incoming Grades 9-12 Aliens vs. Cheerleaders Find out more about Lee's Summit acting classes at thecoterie.org Page 18 March 2015 LSHS student among top three finalists in national film competition Jaci Herron, a student at Lee’s Summit High School, is among the top three finalists for the Girls Impact the World Film Festival. The winner will be announced March 28 at a ceremony at Harvard University. Jaci was the only highschool student to be named a finalist. Her film is called “Emerging,” and was made through her broadcasting class at LSHS. In the film, three LSHS seniors share their leadership experience as they emerge as the next generation of female leaders and role models. Terri Sheets Lawrence Whittlesey Cheryl McLaughlin Local VFW Post recognizes R-7 teachers for their citizenship efforts The Lee’s Summit Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5789 recently honored several R-7 teachers for their efforts in the area of citizenship education. Terri Sheets, a teacher at Meadow Lane Elementary, and Lawrence Whittlesey, a teacher at Lee’s Summit West High School, received the Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award. Cheryl McLaughlin, a teacher at Lee’s Summit Elementary, was also honored for her contributions to citizenship. Mr. Whittlesey is in the industrial technology department and teaches computer-assisted drafting, engineering design, civil engineering and architecture. A former Navy Senior Chief Jaci Herron Petty Officer, the teacher was praised for fostering a connection with each student and having a positive influence in their lives while also helping others. Mrs. Sheets was recognized for her dedication to men and women serving in the U.S. Armed Services. Each year, she helps the school organize an assembly recognizing service men and woman on Veterans Day. Mrs. McLaughlin was recognized for helping students in the elementary gifted program plan and implement a re-dedication of a memorial recognizing soldiers from Lee’s Summit High School who died during World War I. Family Owned & Operated for Three Generations THANK YOU FOR HELPING US GROW! STATE-OF-THE-ART SERVICE FACILITY PREMIUM INVENTORY BLOW OUT PRICES. EXCELLENT SERVICE. If you'd love help getting swim suit-ready for Summer 2015, give us a call. Rather try before you buy? 360 days of the year, we offer 3 free sessions yours for the asking! designed for women small group sessions nutrition coaching kw y a r 50 NW Chipman Rd NW Blue Parkway We’re on Ward Rd. across from Hy-Vee | Like us on Facebook! E a eP 554-0153 INTERST 470 NW Blu Small Group Personal Training fun atmosphere results you will love new, local owner 1101 NW BLUE PARKWAY • LEE’S SUMMIT, MO • (816)524-3636 * Terms and conditions apply. Not all customers will qualify for the lowest rates. See dealer for details. March 2015 Page 19 R-7 community group travels to Jefferson City to advocate for public schools Members of several R-7 community groups traveled to Jefferson City Jan. 21 to talk to state elected officials representing this area, advocating for adequate and fair funding for public schools and other legislative priorities. Individuals making the advocacy trip were representatives of the R-7 Board of Education, Citizens’ Advisory Committee and Business Roundtable. The group consisted of Dr. David McGehee (R-7 superintendent), Ron Baker, Phyllis Balagna, Bill Baird, Ying Zurbuchen, David McCaughey, Dorothy Walk, Eric Gibbs and Stephen Hill. The group met with the following legislators: Sen. Will Kraus, Sen. Paul LeVota, Rep. Rick Brattin, Rep. Joe Runions, Rep. Rebecca Roeber, Rep. Sheila Solon, Rep. Donna Pfautsch and Rep. Gary Cross. During the meetings, the community members focused on the district’s legislative priorities for the 2015 Missouri General Assembly session. The R-7 School District’s complete list of legislative priorities is available on the district’s website at www.lsr7.org/ district/2013-legislative-platform/. Participating in the Lee’s Summit R-7 advocacy trip to Jefferson City were (front row, from left) Bill Baird and Ying Zurbuchen, (back row, from left) David McCaughey, Phyllis Balagna, Dorothy Walk, Eric Gibbs, Dr. David McGehee, Stephen Hill and Ron Baker. We Buy. We Sell. We Trade. LOVE YOUR FLOOR Children’s Orchard® makes it easy to recycle your kids stuff for cash and restock at prices up to 80% below retail! We’ll buy your kids’ outgrown clothing, toys, and baby gear and pay you cash on the spot. We buy all seasons. 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Page 20 March 2015 Daughters of the American Revolution chapter presents awards to teacher, students The Prairie Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution recently presented awards to a Lee’s Summit R-7 School District teacher and students. Blake Little, a social studies teacher at Lee’s Summit West High School, was honored as the Prairie Chapter Outstanding Teacher of American History. He has worked for the R-7 School District since 2002 and is also the head boys basketball coach at Lee’s Summit High School. Three high-school seniors also received the organization’s Good Citizen Award, a national awards program designed to encourage and reward dependability, service, leadership and patriotism. Chloe Maberry of Lee’s Summit High School, Erin Barnes of Lee’s Summit West High School and Sarah Welsh of Lee’s Summit North High School were selected by their school’s faculty members. Our Schools Reorganized School District. No. 7 301 N.E. Tudor Road, Lee’s Summit, MO 64086 An Equal Opportunity Employer Published by the R-7 Board of Education ♦ Dr. David McGehee, Superintendent Editor: Janice Phelan, Communications Executive Director Produced by the LEE’S SUMMIT JOURNAL ♦ www.lsjournal.com BCMS student wins Gold Key in Scholastic Art and Writing Competition Tiffany Hughey, an eighth-grader at Bernard Campbell Middle School, recently won the Gold Key award in the Scholastic Art and Writing Competition. This is the highest award available, and she is one of only two eighth-graders to receive the award in the Midwest region. Tiffany will go on to compete at the national level. Tiffany Hughey BOARD OF EDUCATION Ron Baker ........................................................................................................ President Terri Harmon .........................................................................................Vice President Bill Baird .............................................................................................................Member Phyllis Balagna.................................................................................................Member Patti Buie............................................................................................................Member Chris Storms .....................................................................................................Member Bob White ..........................................................................................................Member Regular Board of Education meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Stansberry Leadership Center, 301 N.E. Tudor Road. Info line: 816-986-1001. Web address: www.lsr7.org MISSION STATEMENT We prepare each student for success in life. VISION STATEMENT Lee’s Summit R-7 is an exemplary school district, graduating students who are college and career ready with the competitive advantage necessary to be successful. Lee’s Summit R-7 reflects a culture of respect and acceptance. Collaboration is an expectation that fosters mutual understanding and a focus on student achievement and staff development. Lee’s Summit R-7 encourages innovation and creativity, recognizing student learning as our fundamental purpose. Parents of 2015-16 kindergarteners invited to registration Registration for 2015-16 kindergarten students will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. March 31 at all R-7 elementary schools. Parents should bring their children’s birth certificates or legal birth document, immunization records and current proof of residency. Proof of residency includes an original utility bill (only electricity, gas or water) that shows the resident’s name. During the March 31 registration, parents will set appointments for kindergarten screening, scheduled on May 12 and 14 at all elementary schools. Completion of registration and screening are necessary for student assignment to a class list. March 2015 Page 21 Advance your career, or start a new one. Whether it’s a bachelor’s or master’s degree, or a certificate program to help you get ahead, the University of Central Missouri – Lee’s Summit offers affordable, in-demand programs with the flexibility to fit your busy life. UNDERGRADUATE COMPLETION PROGRAMS: •Criminal Justice •Management •Psychology (coming fall 2015) •Social Work GRADUATE PROGRAMS: •Computer Information Systems and Information Technology •Computer Science •MBA in Ethical Strategic Leadership •Occupational Safety Management Check out your options at ucmo.edu/summit. Page 22 March 2015 LSHS Concert Choir invited to perform at Lincoln Center in New York City The Lee’s Summit High School Concert Choir was recently invited to participate in a special performance of “The Music of Ivo Antognini” through the Distinguished Concerts International New York City (DCINY) Concert Series. The local choir will perform March 22, 2016, at Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall in New York City. The Concert Choir, directed by Chris Munce, will perform under the baton of Dr. Jerry McCoy at the New York venue. Ivo Antognini will be present as visiting composer for the residency. The Lee’s Summit High School singers will spend five days and four nights in New York City in preparation for their concert. Members of the community may help with financial support in sending these singers to New York by contacting Mr. Munce at chris.munce@lsr7.net. www.summitlanes.com Sunset Valley Elementary student wins Price Chopper Bag Your Favorite Book Award KIDS BOWL FREE ALL SUMMER LONG! 15 and under bowl 2 FREE* games a day all summer long! Registration at www.kidsbowlfree.com/summitlanes *Shoe rental extra 2 HOURS OF BOWLING, A LARGE PIZZA AND A 16 OZ DRINK PER BOWLER. ONLY $46.95 ($60 value) Pizza Pins and Pop! Shoe rental extra Max of 6 on a lane. Reservation and coupon required | Expires 6/30/15 816.524.3322 803 SW Oldham Parkway, Lee’s Summit, MO Derek Robb, a student at Sunset Valley Elementary, won the third-grade division in the Price Chopper Bag Your Favorite Book contest. Price Chopper received more than 9,000 entries from students in the Kansas City metro area. Just one winner per grade level was selected. This is Derek’s second win in two years. He won a $500 check to be used by the Sunset Valley for library purchases as well as a party for his thirdgrade class. Derek is pictured with his teacher, Erica Hough (right) and the school’s library media specialist Sara Benke. March 2015 Page 23 Business partner helps students with special needs learn about coordination, flexibility and strength through karate lessons There are moments when time stops, you forget everything and you sit still, mesmerized and watching. That is what many of the spectators did as they witnessed students from the medically fragile program and life skills classroom at Sunset Valley Elementary show off their coordination, flexibility and strength, as well as their perseverance and selfcontrol during a recent karate lesson. Cassy Walker, parent of Livia Walker, shared, “It is a huge honor for any parent to see their child accomplish any life challenge, but for me it’s so much more since my daughter has special needs. I was extremely moved by how much the instructor was involved in each and every child’s special abilities. Seeing how much excitement was in each and every child’s expressions was heartwarming and exciting.” The students earned their yellow belts in karate from Tamashii Black Belt Academy, the state’s only certified adaptive martial arts program. Life Skills Teacher Laura Brown with Sensei Wendy Myers and student Caden Peter. GO GREEN & SAVE BIG! ! We Refill All Major Printer Brands Dell • Hp • Canon • Brother Test Preparation Services 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed • 16 Hours of one-on-one, in-home tutoring • Delivered in 1.5 hour sessions • Each student will tutor 3 hours per week • 2 tutors • Test Anxiety Strategies • Tutoring six weeks prior to each ACT testing date • ACT homework and practice tests 965-0090 www.clubztutoring.com 412 SW Ward Road, Lee’s Summit, MO 64081 816-246-4845 | www.cartridgeworldusa.com/Store216 SAVE $ Ink Refills 1 Off Limit one per customer. 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