Image of the 2025 Alumni Hall of Fame Inductees: Dr. Kimberly Johnson-Hatchett, Larry Mock, and Jim Stilley.

Alumni Hall of Fame 2025 🏅

Congrats to the Class of 2025 Raytown Quality Schools Alumni Hall of Fame inductees: Dr. Kimberly Johnson-Hatchett, Lawrence (Larry) Mock, Timothy Monsees, and R. James (Jim) Stilley, Jr. During induction day these incredibly accomplished individuals took time to visit each high school, speak with students about their lives and participate in recognition ceremonies. We invite all of those in the Raytown learning community to take time to find out more about these alumni and many others by visiting our website here. You can also see more about the Hall of Fame inductees at display cases at each high school, the Raytown Schools Education and Conference Center and the board room of the Administration building. Thank you to all of our 2025 alumni class for being a part of the celebration and to all of the students and staff that helped make this day special for our esteemed alumni.

We are deeply saddened by the recent passing of Tim Monsees. While his induction came posthumously, we honor his life, legacy, and the many ways he uplifted others through his work, service, and friendship. His memory will remain a lasting part of the Raytown Quality Schools Hall of Fame.

Image of Mr. Hustad, Dr. Penelope Martin-Knox, and Board President Alonzo Burton with Mr. Hustad's Ray of Hope award.

Josh Hustad I October Ray of Hope Award 💫

Congratulations to Mr. Josh Hustad, Executive Director of Facility Operations, on being recognized as our October 2025 Ray of Hope awardee. Mr. Hustad is being honored for his hard work behind the scenes during an unexpected start to the year and his unwavering commitment to getting students back in our school buildings quickly and safely. Your leadership and dedication ensured that families and staff felt supported and connected. Through your efforts, Raytown Quality Schools continues to thrive as a stronger, more resilient, and united community.

Career Days at Robinson and Eastwood Hills Elementary 🚨

Students at Robinson and Eastwood Hills Elementary had an exciting opportunity to explore future possibilities during their recent Career Days! At Eastwood Hills, students heard from a variety of professionals—including representatives from the Kansas City Fire Department, Evergy, St. Luke’s Hospital, Herndon Career Center students, and many more—who shared what they love about their work. At Robinson, students enjoyed presentations from community speakers and more than 30 parents who shared their careers and experiences. A special thank-you goes to counselor Ms. Krickbaum at Robinson for planning such a fun, inspiring day of learning—and to all the students who dressed as their future selves!

National Walk, Bike, or Roll to School Day at Blue Ridge and Spring Valley 🛴

It was a beautiful fall morning as the Blue Ridge and Spring Valley Elementary communities participated in National Walk, Bike, or Roll to School Day! Students, families, and staff came together to promote healthy habits, safe routes, and community connection. At Blue Ridge, the celebration included a special message of appreciation for crossing guard Mr. Darrell, honoring his hard work and dedication to keeping students safe each day.

Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration at Raytown High School 🇮🇹

Raytown High School hosted its first-ever Hispanic Heritage Month assembly, bringing students and staff together to celebrate culture, community, and tradition. The event featured spirited performances from the RHS cheerleaders, a captivating floreo (Mexican cowboy lasso dance) by a talented student, and two traditional dances performed by a group of students. It was a vibrant and meaningful celebration honoring the rich heritage and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities.

Image of Northwood principal Mrs. Barnes, Ms. Yvonne McCay, and Dr. Calcara.

Substitute of the Month 🏆

Congratulations to Ms. Yvonne McCay on being named the Raytown Quality Schools Human Resources Substitute of the Month! Ms. McCay received this award for her commitment, energy, and heart for students. Substitutes like her make a real difference every day!

RQS Staff Wears Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness 🩷

On October 13, RQS staff showed their support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month by wearing pink! Each October, communities across the country come together to raise awareness about breast cancer; the most common cancer among women worldwide. Wearing pink is a simple but powerful way to show solidarity with survivors, honor those we’ve lost, and support those who are still fighting. Thank you to our staff for helping spread awareness and hope.

Image promoting the Academies of Raytown career expo fair on October 27th

Academies of Raytown Career Expo - October 27th 💼

Freshmen from Raytown High and Raytown South will attend the annual Career Expo Fair on Monday, October 27, at Raytown High School’s Auxiliary Gym from 8:00 AM - 1:30 PM.

This interactive event connects students with local businesses and organizations to explore future career opportunities, gain hands-on experiences, and see how education links directly to real-world pathways. With exhibitors representing a variety of industries, the fair is designed to spark curiosity, excitement, and lifelong learning.

If you're interested in becoming an exhibitor for this event, please use this link to sign up: Academies of Raytown Exhibitor Sign-Up

Image promoting the Academies of Raytown career expo fair on October 27th

Rockin in Raytown I An Event for Elementary Families Friday, October 24th 🎸

Get ready to hit the dance floor at Raytown's ultimate family event! Rockin’ in Raytown is for Pre-K - 5 students and their family. Join us on Friday, October 24th, at Raytown South Middle School from 6:00 - 7:30 PM for an unforgettable evening filled with laughter, music, and activities everyone can enjoy. Don't miss out on this special opportunity to create lasting memories with your loved ones, and support the Raytown Educational Foundation!

To register and find out more, click here: Raytown Educational Foundation Rockin' in Raytown Website

Raytown Quality School Community Education Program: Call for Course Proposals and Instructors

Raytown Quality Schools Community Education Program serves to offer a wide variety of educational, recreational, and personal growth experiences for adults in our community. Community education classes give adults 18+ great choices that are offered at a minimal cost. We add new classes every fall and spring. Class proposals are also being accepted from those interested in teaching a class. For more information about community education and submitting a course proposal, please click here: Raytown Quality Schools Community Education Website

Image of October month at a glance with special observance days and no school attendance days.

October 2025 Recognition and Observance Days

October 8: Walk, Bike, or Roll to School Day
October 13: Wear Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness
October 13: Indigenous Peoples Day
October 15: Missouri Day
October 20-26: National School Bus Safety Week
October 24: No Student Attendance, Teacher Professional Development Day
October 30: No Student Attendance, Parent/Teacher Conferences
October 31: No School, Parent/Teacher Conferences

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.