Cardinal Connections Newsletter

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Excitement filled the shop last week at Clinton Technical School as a brand-new 2024 Ford F-350 King Ranch Super Duty diesel rolled onto campus, officially marking a major milestone in hands-on learning for CTS’ Automotive Technology students.

Generously donated by Gregg Smith Ford in partnership with Ford Motor Company, this vehicle, valued at more than $120,000, represents a significant contribution to workforce development and career-ready education at Clinton Technical School.

As vehicle technology continues to evolve rapidly, access to late-model equipment, such as this donation, ensures CTS students train on the same platforms they will encounter in dealerships and repair facilities after graduation. Equipped with advanced diesel engine systems, modern diagnostic technology, updated electrical components, and the latest safety and driver-assist features, the F-350 will allow students to:

• Perform advanced diagnostics using current manufacturer technology
• Train on modern diesel systems and electronic controls
• Conduct real-world repair, maintenance, and multi-point inspections
• Work with industry-standard tools and service procedure
• Build skills aligned with ASE and manufacturer certification pathways

Gregg Smith Ford has long been a dedicated partner of Clinton Technical School’s Automotive Technology program, and their commitment to student success continues to make a lasting impact. Through a strong collaboration with instructor Brad Stone, Gregg Smith Ford has provided valuable internship opportunities, hands-on learning experiences, and mentorship that often lead to full-time employment for graduates.

Mr. Stone’s commitment to delivering hands-on, industry-standard instruction directly contributed to this generous vehicle donation. Through his work with Ford Motor Company’s High School Ford Service Training Program, he has brought factory-level training and certifications into the classroom. Recognizing the outstanding learning opportunities happening in CTS’ Automotive Technology program, Ford Motor Company nominated the school to receive a vehicle, making this F-350 one of only six vehicles donated in the Kansas City region.

Following the truck’s delivery, students had the opportunity to explore the F-350 up close, examining its advanced features and technology. Students and guests then enjoyed a catered lunch, followed by a Ford Motor Company Training Day, where students participated in hands-on activities and gained insight into manufacturer-level training and industry standards.

“We are incredibly grateful to Gregg Smith Ford and Ford Motor Company for their commitment to our students,” said Brad Stone, Automotive Technology Instructor. “This donation strengthens our ability to provide career-ready training and gives our students the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology that mirrors today’s automotive industry.”

Clinton Technical School extends its sincere appreciation to Gregg Smith Ford and Ford Motor Company for investing in our programs, our students, and the future of skilled trades in our community.

Henry Elementary 1st graders have been working hard to memorize and perform the National Anthem, and they did an outstanding job performing at the CHS basketball games earlier this month.

In recognition of their efforts, VFW Post 1894 and Auxiliary honored their music teacher, Mr. Scott Blair with an American Citation as a National Citizenship Education Teacher for promoting Americanism in his classroom and school.

Each first-grade student was also presented with a Young American Award certificate and a small American flag to celebrate their achievement.

A special thank you to Post members Dan LaRue and Jennifer Umland, along with Auxiliary President Andrew Umland, for presenting the awards and flags.

We are so proud of our students for representing Henry Elementary with such heart and patriotism!

More pictures available here.

Has the latest edition of A Bird's Eye View arrived in your mailbox?

February is Career and Technical Education Month, and we are excited to dedicate this issue of our print district newsletter to the meaningful opportunities available to students at Clinton Technical School. These programs help students discover their strengths, explore future careers, and build skills they can use right here in our community to support the local workforce and economy.

An online version is available here.

Earlier this month, CHS sophomore Jace Luttrell had the incredible opportunity to perform at the Meyer Music Band of Angels Heartstrings Gala in Kansas City. This special event raises funds to provide instruments to students in the KC area.

Jace, who received a trumpet from the Band of Angels program this fall, was selected as one of just 16 recipients to perform at the Gala......what an honor!

Even more exciting, the students worked in several rehearsals with Orange Coffee, Beyoncé’s saxophonist of more than 20 years. She coached them on musicianship, showmanship, and stage presence in preparation for the big night.

Jace did amazing and represented Clinton beautifully!

Jace is taught by CHS band directors, Pat Miles and Katie Klinksick.

See more pictures here.

Clinton School District is grateful to OakStar Bank for a generous donation through their School Debit Card Program. Every time customers swipe their Cardinal-branded debit card, they’re helping give back to our schools.

Partnerships like this make a real impact, and we appreciate OakStar’s continued commitment to supporting our students, staff, and community. Thank you for investing in Clinton Schools!

Pictured below are: Shari Stout (OakStar Branch Manager, Clinton), Dan Brungardt (Clinton Schools Superintendent), and Josh Sater (OakStar Community Bank President, Clinton)

Welcome to BEYOND THE NEST, a spotlight on recent alumni and the journeys they’ve taken since graduating from Clinton High School.

We call it Beyond the Nest because, just like young birds leaving the nest, our graduates leave our halls PREPARED, CONFIDENT, and READY to soar into the world. From college, the workforce, trade school, military, and careers, this weekly series celebrates how our alumni are spreading their wings and making their mark. Join us as we share their stories, achievements, and the paths that began right here in our halls.

Since graduating from CHS in 2022, Quincy Crawford has been pursuing a degree in Information Technology at the University of Missouri - Columbia. He is in the final semester of his degree program and plans to pursue a career in cybersecurity. Following graduation, he will travel abroad with Marching Mizzou to perform in London Band Week this summer.

"I had so many positive experiences in the Clinton School District it is hard to pick just one. From the people skills and leadership experience I gained in band ensembles, to the practical skills I developed through the I.T. Program at Clinton Technical School, and the wisdom and encouragement so many of my teachers have given me over the years, each has played an important role in shaping who I am today."

After graduating from CHS in 2023, Lauren Bailey took her talents to Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College, where she became a member of the horse judging team. During her time there, she was involved in several leadership organizations and was awarded the honors of Top 10 Freshman, Homecoming Court, Graduate of Distinction, and named a Distinguished All-American (1 of 5 junior college students in the nation for horse judging). After receiving an associate degree in Agriculture, she was recruited by Texas A&M University to compete on their Horse Judging Team, where her team has already started the season strong, winning the National Reining Horse Association Judging Contest. Additionally, she volunteers with multiple 4-H and FFA chapters judging programs, helps host contests and clinics, giving back to the programs that were the start of her foundation. She is currently pursuing a degree in Agricultural Economics with an emphasis in Finance and Real Estate. Lauren also works as an independent contractor for equine associations such as the American Quarter Horse Association, American Paint Horse Association, and National Reining Horse Association, where she has had the opportunity to travel across the United States and assist at multiple world and national shows.

"My time in the Clinton School District laid the foundation for my educational and professional journey. Through my involvement in the FFA chapter and the guidance of my former advisor, Tanner Robertson, I was introduced to horse judging and the many opportunities that grew from it. I am equally grateful to Coach Johnson, my cross-country coach, who emphasized mindset training and the importance of maintaining a positive perspective, lessons that continue to guide me daily."

Congratulations to those who participated in the 2026 DECA District Competition! The following students will be representing Clinton DECA at State Competition next month.

• Onlee Avis- Automotive Services Marketing (2nd Place)
• Hadley DeLozier- Hospitality & Tourism Professional Selling (3rd Place)
• Charlotte English- Buying & Merchandising Team Decision Making (3rd Place)
• Jocelyn Himes- Buying & Merchandising Team Decision Making (3rd Place)
• Annie Johnson- Entrepreneurship Series (2nd Place), Buying & Merchandising Operation Research (1st Place)
• Nikolas Kamal- Principles of Marketing (1st Place)
• Bailey Klahs- Integrated Marketing Campaign- Product (2nd Place)
• Faith Klahs- Professional Selling (3rd Place)
• Dylan Lutjen- Entrepreneurship Innovation Plan (1st Place)
• Cody Mitchell- Entrepreneurship Innovation Plan (1st Place)
• Kaysen Nold- Food Marketing Series (2nd Place), Integrated Marketing Campaign- Product (2nd Place)
• Jordan Oliver- Sports & Entertainment Marketing (2nd Place), Business Law and Ethics Teach Decision Making (2nd Place)
• Markus Oliver- Business Finance Services (2nd Place), Start-up Business Plan (1st Place)
• Payton Pulcini- Financial Consulting (2nd Place)
• Molly Purinton- Restaurant & Food Service Management (1st Place), Buying & Merchandising Operations Research (3rd Place)
• Allie Vandenberg- Principles of Hospitality (1st Place), Business Law and Ethics Team Decision Making (2nd Place)
• Malachi Wilson- Start-up Business Plan (1st Place)

Students are taught by Jessie Thompson and Haylee Clark.

See more pictures here.

Sometimes the impact of Career and Technical Education hits close to home.

Recently, CHS administrative assistant Kim Greer received emergency care at Golden Valley Memorial Healthcare, provided by graduates and current students of Clinton Technical School’s EMT program. One former student was even driving the ambulance.

Kim shared how professional and respectful the students were and how grateful she is for the program and the outstanding young professionals it is preparing.

Our EMT students don’t just learn in the classroom. Through hands-on clinical experiences and internships, they gain real-world skills while serving the very community that supports them.

Pictured left to right: Megan Weiss (EMT instructor), Owenn Thomas (EMT student), Bella Horton (EMT student), Kim Greer (CHS Administrative Asst.), Maeghan Scott (EMT student), and Kaleb Barkley (EMT student)

Congrats to the employees below who were recently recognized for their outstanding dedication to Clinton Schools!

Clinton Schools will not be in session on Monday, March 2nd, for staff professional development, as well as CHS Enrollment Conferences.

If you have a child who will be in 10th-12th grades NEXT YEAR at Clinton High School, please make plans for you and your child to stop by CHS on Monday at the times listed on the flyer below.

Do you know a CSD employee who has made a difference in your child's life? Someone who consistently goes above and beyond?

Now’s your chance to recognize their hard work! Nominate an outstanding teacher or staff member for one of the three awards below. Finalists will be announced later this school year!

Nomination deadline is March 9th.

• Educator of the Year Nomination Form
• Cardinal Rising Star Nomination Form
• Support Staff Employee of the Year Nomination Form

Thanks to the generous support of the organizations listed below, the Clinton School District is bringing a powerful and potentially life-saving presentation to our community.

Be Alert is a nationally-recognized program designed specifically for parents and guardians. It provides critical information about online safety and the very real risks children face in today’s digital world. This presentation equips adults with the tools and knowledge needed to better protect their children.

This is a FREE event for ALL parents in our community (children are not allowed to attend). Learn more about the Be Alert program here.

Event Details:

• Wednesday, March 4
• 6:00-7:30 PM
• Clinton High School

Thank you to our sponsors:

• Clinton Police Officer Association
• Compass Health
• Month of the Child Committee
• Booster Club
• Education Foundation

Clinton High School Student Council will be hosting a blood drive on Friday, February 27th.

Please use the link below to register.

REGISTER HERE

Sign up for our FIRST-EVER Kindergarten Newsletter today....your guide to all things Kindergarten at Henry Elementary!

Be the first to know about enrollment, key dates, and everything your child needs to feel ready for kindergarten next school year!

SIGN UP HERE

Kindergarten Round-Up is March 24th. Sign-up for our newsletter to learn more about this important date!

The academic calendar for next school year (2026-2027) has been approved by the Board of Education. A printable version of this calendar can be found at the link below.

Important Dates:
• First day of school for students: August 26, 2026
• Last day of school for students: May 19, 2027

PRINTABLE VERSION AVAILABLE HERE

Can you believe that we are already starting to plan for next school year?

If you know of someone who would make a great addition to our team, we encourage you to share the job openings below with them!

26-27 SCHOOL YEAR OPENINGS

• Special Education Teachers (CIS & CMS)
• Classroom Teachers (Henry & CIS)
• Social Studies Teacher (CMS)
• EMT Instructor (CTS)
• Speech Language Pathologist (CIS)
• Paraprofessional (CIS)
• Coaches (CMS & CHS)

If school must be canceled due to inclement weather, the district will make every effort to notify parents by 5:30 am (these communication methods are outlined below). We encourage all families to develop contingency plans if school must be canceled or released early. It is especially important to have plans for younger children who are too young to stay home alone.

When school remains in session during winter weather, please plan for potential bus delays. The bus company may use snow routes if most roads are safe for travel but some rural roads are not. Parents are also encouraged to ensure their children dress appropriately for protection against prolonged exposure to cold weather. Download our bus tracking app here.

On days that inclement weather forces the district to close school buildings, our messaging to you will inform you if the day will be a "traditional inclement weather day" or an "AMI day". Please watch for this information in the communication we provide.

COMMUNICATION METHODS
SOCIAL MEDIA-The first notification you will receive about a school closure will come from our district's social media pages (Facebook and Instagram).
TEXT, EMAIL, AND PHONE-This will quickly be followed by a text message, email, and phone call. The successful delivery of this information is dependent upon accurate contact information obtained from school records. If your contact information changes, please let your child's school office know as soon as possible. Only those who have opted-in to receive text messages (text Y to 67587 from the cell number the district has on file for you) will receive the text message.
WEBSITE-This information will also be placed on our district webpage, www.clintoncardinals.org.
NEWS MEDIA-The cancellation info will be provided to KDKD and Kansas City news stations.
PLEASE BE AWARE-Private social media messages and comments will not be answered by the district when it relates to weather announcements. All decisions will be shared formally by the methods listed above.

LATE START INFO
Please be aware that if the district chooses to have a late start due to weather factors, all buildings will start 2 hours later than normal. Students riding the bus to school, would be picked up 2 hours later than normal as well. Breakfast will not be served.

The following would be the start times for each building for a late start.

• CHS/CTS-9:45 (doors open at 9:15)
• CMS-9:45 (doors open at 9:25)
• CIS-10:05 (doors open at 9:30)
• Henry Elementary-10:10 (doors open at 9:30)
• CECC-morning classes cancelled
  full day classes start at 10:00 (doors open at 9:55)
  1/2 day afternoon classes regular start time

If you have ever considered substitute teaching, we would love to have you join our team and help fill this very important role in our district **(substitute teachers pay has increased to $120/day).**

There are currently two paths to becoming a substitute teacher, 36 hours of college credit or 20 hours of online training.

You can learn more and apply to be a substitute teacher in the Clinton School District at the link below:

https://www.clintoncardinals.org/cms/One.aspx...

If you have questions, please call 660-885-2237.

Know a staff member who deserves some recognition?

Use the form below to give them a Cardinal Compliment.....it’s a quick, meaningful way to say “thank you” and recognize the difference they’re making.

Let’s start the year with gratitude!

Submit your compliment here.

FirstView is a bus tracking and communications app, offered in partnership with First Student, the district's transportation provider. The FirstView app offers parents live bus tracking with custom alerts and notifications.

To get started using FirstView, please use this link. If you should have questions, please contact Transportation at 660-885-2644.

Want to catch our Cardinals in action this year?

You can view a full athletic calendar on the MSHSAA website.

The 2025-2026 school year calendar can be found below.

You can also find a printable version on our website.