Frontier News

Excitement is building for the annual KC STEM Fest, set to take place on November 21st in the FSI Middle School gymnasium. The event will once again transform the space into a vibrant hub of creativity, curiosity, and innovation as students showcase their incredible science, technology, engineering, and math projects.

“This is our 11th year, and we’re so grateful for the growing corporate sponsorships

that make it possible,” said Superintendent Demircan.

Now in its 11th year, Frontier Schools proudly welcomes back its dedicated sponsors — Arvest Bank, Country Club Bank, Turner Construction, and Black & McDonald Engineering. Their continued generosity plays a vital role in inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators.

A heartfelt thank-you goes out to all our philanthropic partners whose ongoing support ensures the success of this beloved community event.

We invite families, friends, and community members to join us in celebrating our students’ creativity, problem-solving, and passion for STEM at this year’s KC STEM FEST — where imagination meets innovation!

Frontier Schools’ Pathways to Tech Careers and College is a hands-on program that equips students for success in college and technology-driven careers. Students earn industry credentials through courses like Applied Math, bi-weekly in-school sessions, and paid after-school experiences ($13/hour) at Operation Breakthrough’s Ignition Lab. Focus areas include Product Design, Graphic Design, Mechatronics, Green Tech, and Multimedia Production.

Our goal: for every senior to graduate with at least one Market Value Asset (MVA)—an industry-recognized certification or credential.

We’re excited to highlight an inspiring achievement from our very own Solar Panthers team! Last weekend, our talented students took part in an incredible workshop and campus visit at the Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T).

During their visit, the team had the unique opportunity to collaborate with the Missouri S&T Solar Car Team, one of the nation’s leading collegiate solar engineering groups. Students participated in hands-on learning sessions, exchanged innovative ideas, and gained valuable insights into the design and technology behind solar-powered vehicles.

This partnership represents an exciting milestone in our ongoing mission to inspire excellence in STEM education. By connecting classroom learning with real-world engineering, our Solar Panthers are gaining the skills and confidence to become tomorrow’s leaders in sustainable innovation.

On October 1, Frontier Schools Central Office hosted an FSE Alumni Panel for current seniors. The event brought together a group of FSE alumni who shared their experiences and insights with students preparing for life after graduation.

The panel covered a wide range of topics, including college life, choosing majors, academics, financial planning and budgeting, mental health and well-being, and career pathways. Alumni responded with honesty and encouragement, offering practical advice as well as personal stories.

The discussion sparked meaningful reflection and inspired seniors to begin envisioning their own futures beyond high school. Events like these highlight the strength of the FSE community and the ongoing support of alumni who are eager to guide the next generation of graduates.

On October 3rd, Frontier Schools held districtwide Parent-Teacher Conferences. These conferences provided parents with the opportunity to discuss their child’s academic progress, learn about classroom performance, and connect directly with teachers.

Congratulations to Frontier STEM High School teacher, Christopher Kramer, for being named one of the 2025–26 Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Outstanding Teachers!

Each year, PLTW honors outstanding teachers and administrators across the nation who go above and beyond to inspire, engage, and empower their students. These educators create transformative learning experiences through PLTW programs, preparing students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in college, career, and beyond.

Mr. Kramer’s dedication to his students and commitment to hands-on, project-based learning has made a lasting impact on the Frontier community. His recognition as a PLTW Outstanding Teacher is a reflection of his hard work, passion, and the difference he makes every day in the classroom.

Frontier Schools is proud to celebrate this incredible achievement and congratulates Mr. Kramer on this well-deserved honor!

On October 21st, our FSE high school soccer team got an incredible surprise! Two players and representatives from Sporting KC — our city’s amazing professional soccer team — stopped by to visit and brought special gifts for our students. The team had no idea what was coming, and their faces lit up with excitement when they walked into the gymnasium. It was such a memorable and joyful moment! Sporting KC truly showed their commitment to the community, gifting our students brand-new cleats, socks, and shin guards, making their day one to remember.

On October 20, Henderson Engineers partnered with FSI Elementary’s 2nd and 3rd graders for an exciting fall STEM activity. Mechanical and electrical engineers from the firm led an engaging, hands-on project that encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity.

During the session, students worked together to guide a small “mouse” through a series of designated locations—including the park, the library, Henderson Engineers, and Frontier School of Innovation. The students were thrilled to successfully navigate the challenge and proudly celebrated their accomplishments.

This interactive experience not only made learning fun but also sparked curiosity and confidence in our young innovators, showing that exploration and collaboration are key to discovery.

In late October, Frontier Schools welcomed Bayer back to our 4th-grade classrooms for an exciting, hands-on Alka-Rocket Lab activity. During the 25–30 minute sessions, students explored how chemical reactions can create gas pressure that produces thrust and motion — the same principles that power real rockets!

Working in small groups, students launched their own safe, horizontal “rockets,” which traveled between 20 to 35 feet. As part of the experiment, they recorded data on reaction rates and energy conversion, turning science concepts into real-world applications.

The activity sparked curiosity, teamwork, and plenty of excitement as young scientists witnessed chemistry and physics in action — a fun reminder of how engaging STEM learning can be!

Frontier STEM High School seniors recently had the opportunity to visit Bayer, where they experienced science and innovation in action. The visit was part of their dual enrollment Critical Thinking course, taught in partnership with Metropolitan Community College (MCC).

During the tour, students explored Bayer’s facilities, observed complex industrial processes, and participated in an engaging Q&A session with a panel of Bayer professionals. The visit provided a valuable opportunity for students to connect classroom concepts to real-world applications, deepening their understanding of how science, technology, and critical thinking intersect in professional settings.

Through this experience, students were able to:

• Analyze real-world problem-solving related to manufacturing and pollution control.

• Evaluate the roles and responsibilities of a major corporation within the community.

• Observe the practical applications of science and technology in diverse career fields.

The trip not only strengthened students’ analytical and communication skills but also inspired them to think critically about their future paths in STEM and beyond.

On October 14th, the Alumni Department hosted a special luncheon celebrating our Frontier graduates. The event brought together alumni from various graduating classes to reconnect, share memories, and enjoy an afternoon of camaraderie.

Guests enjoyed a delicious lunch before diving into a lively round of Frontier Jeopardy, a fun team-bonding activity that sparked plenty of laughs and friendly competition. Congratulations to Team #2, who claimed the victory!

It was a wonderful event filled with great food, community spirit, and school pride

On October 31st, Central Office was full of Halloween spirit as it hosted its annual Trail of Treats celebration! This year’s event was extra special — for the first time, 4th and 5th grade students from FSI Middle joined FSI Elementary students for the fun.

Students and staff dressed in their favorite costumes and made their way to Central Office, stopping at various stations to collect candy, pencils, stickers, and other goodies in their treat bags. Laughter and excitement filled the air as everyone enjoyed the festive atmosphere and creative costumes.

Trail of Treats is a beloved Frontier tradition that students look forward to each year — a joyful way to celebrate community, creativity, and a little Halloween magic!

On two separate days in October, seniors from Frontier STEM High School and Frontier School of Excellence celebrated the season with a trip to the Fun Farm Pumpkin Patch. The annual outing gave students a chance to relax, make lasting memories, and strengthen their bonds during their final year of high school.

From picking the perfect pumpkins to zooming down the giant slide, students took part in a variety of fun activities. They also enjoyed visiting barnyard animals, taking a scenic train ride around the farm, and simply spending time outdoors with friends.

It was a day filled with laughter, photos, and plenty of fall spirit—one that seniors will remember fondly as part of their last year at Frontier.

Throughout October, Frontier campuses came together to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with engaging activities and community events that honored the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans.

At Frontier School of Innovation Middle, students participated in a fun, school-wide Hispanic Heritage BINGO game that helped them learn more about other countries.

Frontier STEM High School hosted a Hispanic Heritage evening, celebrating culture, community, and togetherness! Families came together to enjoy delicious food and take part in engaging activities — including a lively piñata that brought smiles to students, parents, and staff alike.

Meanwhile, Frontier School of Excellence held a Hispanic Heritage Assembly, highlighting student presentations, music, and performances that showcased pride, unity, and appreciation for Hispanic culture.

Each event reflected Frontier’s commitment to celebrating diversity and fostering an inclusive environment where every student feels seen and valued.

This October, Frontier Schools hosted two unforgettable Fall Camps at the Wilderness Camping and Retreat Center in Lawson, Missouri. The boys’ camp took place from October 16–18, followed by the girls’ camp from October 24–26.

Students in grades 6–12 had the opportunity to step away from the classroom and connect with nature while building teamwork and leadership skills. Activities included fishing, archery, hiking, team-building challenges, and many other exciting outdoor experiences.

The camps provided students with a chance to unplug, make new friends, and enjoy the great outdoors — all while creating lasting memories. Frontier Schools is proud to continue traditions like these that foster community, character, and adventure among our students.

On October 10th, Frontier STEM High School proudly hosted its National Honor Society (NHS) Induction Ceremony. It was a wonderful evening celebrating scholarship, leadership, service, and character — the four pillars of NHS.

New members were formally inducted and recognized for their academic excellence and commitment to making a positive impact in their school and community. Families, friends, and staff joined in to honor the students’ hard work and dedication.

Congratulations to all of our new NHS members! We are excited to see the great things you will continue to accomplish as leaders at Frontier STEM High School.

On October 31, Frontier School of Excellence held its annual College and Career Fair in the school gym. During the event, students had the opportunity to walk around and engage with representatives from a variety of colleges, training programs, and career organizations.

The fair’s goal was to help students explore their future options and learn more about educational and career pathways that match their interests and goals. Events like this give students valuable insight and inspiration as they plan for life after high school.

During lunch, we asked FSI-M students what they thought about our new meal provider, Southwest Food Excellence — and they had plenty to say! From the fresh new menu options to the improved quality of the meals, students shared their honest impressions and excitement about the change.

Frontier School of Excellence, Frontier STEM High School and FSI Middle School participate in several college visits throughout the year. During their visits, students learn about the academic programs offered, campus activities, the admissions process, financial aid, and how to apply for scholarships.

October 7th: FSHS Sophomores visit Missouri Western State University

October 22nd: FSE Freshman visit Rockhurst

October 23rd: FSHS Seniors visit UMKC

October 30th: NWMSU visits Seniors at FSHS

October 30th: FSE Seniors visit UMKC

There are many opportunities for students to get involved in after school clubs, such as: Advanced Research Club, Gateway Readers' Club, Girls on the Run Club, Health Occupations Students of America Club, Writer's Workshop Club, Math Club, Fishing Club, Cooking Club, I.T. Club, Kindness Club, Art & Craft Club, Video Game Design Club, Chess Club, Fitness Club, Environmental Club, etc.

Featured this month:

• Greenhouse Club at FSHS
• Solar Car Club at the Central Office Innovation Lab

Since the start of the 2025–26 school year, teachers and staff have completed 430 student visits across 247 homes. These home visits play a vital role in strengthening connections between school and families, helping bridge cultural gaps and build trust. By meeting students in their home environments, staff gain valuable insight that supports stronger relationships and deeper understanding.

A SHOUT-OUT to our teachers & staff! Thank you for everything you do!

Discover rewarding careers at Frontier Schools. Join our passionate team in fostering student success with competitive pay and benefits!

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Email: fsi@frontierschools.org
Location: 6700 Corporate Drive, Kansas City, MO, USA
Phone: (816) 363-1907
Facebook: facebook.com/frontierschoolofinnovation

Email: fsi@frontierschools.org
Location: 1575 Universal Avenue, Kansas City, MO, USA
Phone: (816) 241-6202
Facebook: facebook.com/frontierschoolofinnovation

Email: infostem@frontierschools.org
Location: 6455 East Commerce Avenue, Kansas City, MO, USA
Phone: (816) 541-8200
Facebook: facebook.com/frontierstemhighschool

Email: fse@frontierschools.org
Location: 5605 Troost Avenue, Kansas City, MO, USA
Phone: (816) 822-1331
Facebook: facebook.com/frontierschoolofexcellence

Website: frontierschools.org
Location: 6800 Corporate Drive, Kansas City, MO, USA
Phone: (816) 982-4052
Facebook: facebook.com/frontierschools
Twitter: @frontierschools