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

School Board Candidate Filing Update 🗳️

School Board Candidate Filing ended December 30, 2025 at 5 p.m. There are three positions available with three-year terms. Those who filed for candidacy are: Incumbent Dr. Madelyne Douglas, Incumbent Michael Watson, and Dorothy Tucker Roberts. In accordance with law, since the number of candidates who filed is equal to the number of positions available, there will be no election. Candidates will be sworn in at the April 13 Board Meeting.

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

Sabrin Johnson I January Ray of Hope Award 💫

Congratulations to Sabrin Johnson, 2nd grader at Southwood Elementary, on being recognized as our January 2026 Ray of Hope awardee. Sabrin is being honored for her selfless act of kindness and generosity toward her classmates at Southwood Elementary School. By paying for each student’s portion of the Science City field trip, she demonstrated compassion, empathy, and a genuine care for others. Sabrin's actions reflect the values of Raytown Quality Schools and serve as a powerful example of what it means to be a kind friend, peer, and student.

Images of Superintendent Dr. Penelope Martin-Knox with students during focus groups at RHS, RSHS, and HCC.

Focus Groups at Raytown High School, Raytown South High School, and Herndon Career Center

As we move into the second half of the 25-26 school year, elevating student voices remains a priority. Superintendent Dr. Penelope Martin-Knox recently hosted student focus groups. These focus groups allowed students to share meaningful feedback on topics such as school safety, hands-on learning, school spirit, and the support they feel from staff. These insights help strengthen learning and support across RQS!

Image of 2nd graders at Fleetridge Elementary with the best December attendance.

Fleetridge Elementary School Continues to Celebrate Attendance

Our district continues to focus on the benefits of consistent attendance at each of our schools. This month, we are featuring Fleetridge Elementary! Many students had excellent attendance during the months of November and December, and the clock trophy was officially passed to Mrs. Nelson's 2nd grade class for having over 90 percent attendance during the month of December. Which class will have the best January attendance?

Image of high school students and preschool students outside of Raytown High School last spring.

Baby Jays Preschool - Now Enrolling! 🧸

Baby Jays preschool 2026 is now enrolling for classes starting in February 2026. This learning experience is hosted by Raytown High School Child Development II students and offers a fun and nurturing educational opportunity for children ages 3-5*. Transportation must be provided by families. A $50 non-refundable enrollment fee is required, and spots are held once enrollment is paid in full. For more information or to enroll, contact Rochelle Netten at rochelle.netten@raytownschools.org.

Graphic promoting nominations to be sent in for the Distinguished Leadership Award 2026 with an image of Dr. Andrew McCarthy.

Distinguished Leadership Award Nominations

Now Accepting Nominations! The Distinguished Leadership Award exists to recognize administrators whose work has demonstrated an extraordinary level of commitment to students, staff, families, and the community. All members of the District Leadership Team (excluding the Superintendent's Cabinet) who have been in a leadership role in the district for at least two years are eligible to be nominated for the Distinguished Leadership Award. Nominations are due February 11, 2026.

To nominate a leader, fill out this form: Distinguished Leadership Award Nomination Form

Brian Blankenship Heart of the Matter Award Nominations

The Brian Blankenship Heart of the Matter Award recognizes Raytown Quality Schools employees who exemplify a true heart for education through compassion, kindness, and a genuine commitment to others. This award honors individuals who bring positive energy to the District’s mission, build meaningful relationships, and uplift morale through actions that go above and beyond job expectations. Nominees must be current Raytown Quality Schools employees in good standing. Please note that nominations must be submitted by a current RQS employee and should include a supporting narrative highlighting how the nominee demonstrates compassion, charity, a gentle spirit, and a sense of humor while supporting the District’s mission.

To nominate an employee, fill out this form: Brian Blankenship Heart of the Matter Award Nomination Form

Graphic promoting the Community Breakfast on February 12th

Save the Date for the Raytown Educational Foundation Breakfast 🩷

Mark your calendar! The Raytown Educational Foundation Breakfast is taking place on Thursday, February 12th at 8:00 A.M. at the Raytown Schools Education and Conference Center. The Share the Love Community Breakfast is an annual event that brings together students, educators, donors, and community partners to celebrate the impact of generosity in Raytown. Registration is open now! Use this link to sign up today: Share the Love Community Breakfast Registration Link

January 2026 Recognition and Observance Days

January 1st - New Years Day
January 19th - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day (All Schools and District Offices Closed)
January 2026 - National Mentor Month

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.