Lifelong Learning with KCKPS —

Charting the way for improved student achievement!

Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools are charting a whole new course for improved student achievement among the nation’s school districts. It has resulted in phenomenal gains in student performance on state reading and math tests, dramatic improvements in attendance and higher rates of graduation. A comprehensive school reform model, called First Things First, focuses on improved instructional practice targeted professional development, engaged family, and increased support for staff and schools reorganized into small learning communities. It has changed the way students learn and teachers teach. What had been a twice yearly examination of teaching methods is now a weekly teacher preparation plan designed to improve academic performance. The community is being invited to take a more active role in the education issues, too, through small group discussions and community wide conversations. With each additional year – First Things First – students are more likely to attend school, perform better on state achievement tests, and graduate from high school. Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools … developing life long learners.