The C-2 View Newsletter
January 2026
Save the Date! Summer School 2026
It's almost that time! Summer school 2026 will take place from May 29th through June 30th. There will be no school on June 16th, June 19th, and June 25th. Enrollment will begin on March 23rd. Visit our website for more information.
Leiua Iatala I February Ray of Hope Award 💫
Northwood Family Friendship Party
Northwood School enjoyed a wonderful night of games, crafts, and fun during their Family Friendship Party.
Students and families came together for an evening filled with laughter, connection, and special memories. It was a joyful celebration of friendship and community!
Academies of Raytown Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Academies of Raytown?
The Academies of Raytown are a personalized, career-connected learning model designed to help students explore interests, build real-world skills, and prepare for life after high school. Through smaller learning communities and focused career pathways, students connect classroom learning to college, trade school, the military, and high-demand, high-wage careers.
This model is part of Raytown Quality Schools’ long-term commitment to transforming the high school experience so every student graduates academically strong, confident, and prepared for the future. The district partners with Ford Next Generation Learning, a national nonprofit that supports school systems in reimagining education around career readiness and student success.
What is the Freshman Academy?
The Freshman Academy is a dedicated learning experience for all 9th-grade students at Raytown High School and Raytown South High School. Every freshman is automatically enrolled.
The Freshman Academy is designed to:
Support students as they transition from middle school to high school
Build strong academic habits and confidence
Introduce students to career exploration and future planning
Through the Freshman Seminar course, students learn study skills, test-taking strategies, and explore careers connected to college, the workforce, and the military. Students also participate in career fairs, pathway speakers, college and technical school visits, and activities that help them plan their next steps.
What pathways are available to students?
Beginning in the 2026–2027 school year, students in grades 10–12 will select a “home” academy and pathway aligned to their interests and goals. The eight career pathways are:
Healthcare
Human Services
First Responders
Environmental Science
Business & Marketing
Arts, Entertainment, & Design
Manufacturing & Industrial Trades
Information Technology
During freshman year, students explore all pathways before indicating their preferences and creating a four-year academic and career plan.
How does the academy model benefit students?
Research shows that smaller learning communities and career-connected instruction lead to better student outcomes. The Academies of Raytown are designed to:
Increase student engagement and sense of belonging
Improve attendance and graduation rates
Reduce behavior issues
Provide clear connections between school and future careers
Students benefit from:
Personalized learning plans and 1:1 technology
Inquiry-based and real-world learning experiences
Opportunities to learn from industry professionals
Internships and career exploration experiences
A structured sequence of courses within their chosen pathway
Each academy is supported by a dedicated team that includes an Academy Principal, Counselor, Interventionist, teachers, and staff who work closely with students and families.
When do students choose a pathway?
Students explore career options throughout their freshman year. During the spring semester, they update their academic and career plans and select a preferred academy and pathway for grades 10–12. Students may explore a different academy at the end of 10th grade if interests change, though remaining in a “home” academy allows students to complete a full program of study. Regardless of academy placement, students can still take electives and participate in activities outside their academy.
Three RQS Students Selected to Missouri All-State Ensembles
Join us as we celebrate three RQS students who were selected to Missouri All-State ensembles through a rigorous audition process.
Joshua H., senior at Raytown South High School, was selected as the sole drummer for the All-State ensemble “The Collective”. This ensemble focuses on contemporary music, and performs original, student-written music.
Jeremiah D., junior at Raytown High School, was selected as the 4th chair trumpet in the Missouri All-State Jazz Band. Adeline S., junior at Raytown High School, was selected as the 1st chair piccolo in the All-State Orchestra. Congratulations!
Raytown High School Theater Presents Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic
The Raytown High School Theatre Department presents Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic. This comedy celebrates the loyal, kind-hearted underdogs of a certain wizarding world.
The winter play will take place February 19 th - 21st at 7:00 p.m. at in the Raytown High School auditorium. Tickets are $5 for students and $7 in advance for adults. Tickets for adults will be $8 if they are purchased at the door. You can purchase tickets at the website below.
Raytown Central Middle School Debate Team Success
The Raytown Central Middle School Debate Team competed in their first tournament of the season at Antioch Middle School. The team earned a second-place trophy in the small school division out of 13 participating schools, finishing just six points shy of first place. A special congratulations to Lillian Robbins, who placed second in both Impromptu Speaking and Storytelling. We are proud of our students for representing their school with confidence and skill!
Community Education Classes Spring 2026
Raytown Educational Foundation Share the Love Community Breakfast
The Raytown Educational Foundation hosted their annual Share the Love Community Breakfast this past week where community members, staff, and students came together to show support for the foundation and see the impact their generosity has had on the students, teachers, and staff in Raytown.
Stay Connected on Social Media
Follow the Raytown School District on social media to stay updated on the latest news, events, and achievements happening within our schools and community. Get an inside look at the programs, student accomplishments, and initiatives that make Raytown Schools a great place to learn and grow. Join us in celebrating the success of our students and staff!
Instagram: Follow @raytownschools
Facebook: Follow Raytown Quality Schools
TikTok: Follow @raytownschools
YouTube: Follow @raytownqualityschools
February 2026 Recognition and Observance Days
February 1st - 28th: Black History Month
February 1st - 28th: Career and Technical Education Month
February 2nd - 6th: School Counselor Appreciation Week
February 14th: Valentines Day
February 15th: School Resource Officer Appreciation Day
February 16th: Presidents' Day
February 17th: Random Acts of Kindness Day
To view our district calendar, visit our website here.
Have something you want to see us share in our newsletter or social media? Email us at communications@raytownschools.org for consideration.