Citizens Connection
October 13th, 2025
October Food Pantry This Thursday
The October pop-up food pantry is happening this Thursday, the 16th, from 3:30-6 pm in the lobby. We'll have fresh produce, canned fruit and veggies, tuna, spaghetti, and more. If you have any questions, email Jessie Cox: jessica.cox@cwckansascity.org
Fall Fun Fest - Thursday, October 23rd
We are still in need of families and community members to sign up to help at the Fall Fun Fest, which will take place on Thursday, October 23rd from 6-7:30 pm in the school parking lot and playground! Volunteers are needed to host trunks, run game booths, donate candy, and assist with setup and cleanup. Community partners and area businesses are invited to host trunks, as well, so please help spread the word. Please sign up to help today!
Scholastic Book Fair - October 29th-30th
The Scholastic Book Fair is back this month! Families are encouraged to stop by the book fair while at school for family conferences on Wednesday, October 29th and Thursday, October 30th. A variety of books for all ages and other items will be available for purchase.
The book fair will be open for purchases during Family Conferences only, so please do not send money to school with your students.
We’re looking for volunteers to help make this event a success! Please consider signing up for a 2-hour shift during conferences to help our book fair run smoothly!
Educator Spotlight - Ms. Sydney Clark (Art)
In Ms. Clark’s art classroom, creativity begins with choice. Whether students are painting, drawing, or experimenting with mixed media, they’re encouraged to decide what materials, subjects, and styles speak to them. “When students get to choose materials and subjects,” Ms. Clark says, “they can find meaning in whatever they’re doing because it’s fully their own.” That sense of ownership helps students see themselves not just as artists, but as thinkers, creators, and lifelong learners.
Ms. Clark inspires a love of learning by helping students take charge of their creative journeys. From kindergarteners exploring color and texture to middle schoolers researching reference images and diving into self-driven projects, every student learns to ask questions, seek resources, and follow their curiosity. Over time, that mindset extends well beyond the art room. Students who learn to trust their ideas in art begin applying that same confidence and curiosity in every subject they study.
Each class ends with a share time, where students present their artwork, explaining their methods and meaning, and celebrate each other’s growth. When fifth graders told their new classmates about art class, their first thought was, “Ms. Clark gives us creative freedom!” This is a sure sign that they’ve come to value not only what they make, but how they learn.
Community involvement and opportunities outside of the classroom are a cornerstone of Ms. Clark's teaching philosophy. Student art has been displayed at the Show Me KC Schools Art Gallery, Post Coffee during our Night on Broadway, and at art showcases each semester during Family Conferences. Last year she brought 8th graders to participate in the Nelson-Atkins Middle School Summit, and this year there are plans for students in her Wearable Art class to showcase their designs in a school fashion show. Families can also enjoy students’ creations on Artsonia, a digital gallery where Ms. Clark uploads their work.
We are so thankful to have Ms. Clark at Citizens!
If you would like to nominate your child's teacher or another staff member to be highlighted as an educator who inspires a love of learning, please email Ms. Lineberry!
Middle School Counselor's Message
Talking with Your Middle Schooler
As kids grow into middle school, they want more independence but still need your attention and support. Try to listen more than you talk and show interest in their world, even when they seem quiet or moody. Conversations often go better when you’re not face-to-face so try talking while driving in the car, going for a walk, or doing an activity together. Ask open-ended questions like, “What made you laugh today?” instead of “How was school?” Keeping your tone calm can make them feel safe opening up. Even small chats build trust and remind them they can count on you!
-Ms. Kriefall, Middle School Counselor
Contact Us
Email: info@cwckansascity.org
Website: www.cwckansascity.org
Location: 3435 Broadway Boulevard, KCMO, 64111
Phone: (816)499-8000
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cwckansascity
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cwckansascity