Frontier News

Mar 2024

Spring Break

There will be no school from March 18th through March 22nd.

Frontier Schools Joins Verizon Innovative Learning Schools Program

Today, Frontier Schools joins Verizon Innovative Learning, Verizon’s award-winning education initiative which addresses barriers to digital inclusion. In partnership with Digital Promise, the Verizon Innovative Learning Schools program works side-by-side with schools and districts to provide free technology devices, access to the internet and innovative STEM learning programs, giving students in under-resourced schools the technology, education and opportunity they deserve. Being part of the program will keep students connected, helping to facilitate learning wherever it’s taking place.

In addition to reliable access for every student and teacher, Verizon Innovative Learning

Schools also equips each school with a technology coach and provides robust professional

development support for teachers to effectively integrate technology into the classroom.

Frontier School of Excellence, Frontier School of Innovation, and Frontier STEM High

School are among the 34 new schools joining the 11th cohort of Verizon Innovative Learning

Schools, bringing the program to 626 middle and high schools nationwide.

In addition to free Chromebooks with accompanying Verizon data plans for every

student and teacher beginning in fall 2024, participating schools will be assigned a full-time

coach to train teachers in effectively integrating technology into their lessons.

“We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Verizon Innovative Learning and

Digital Promise, marking a transformative step forward for Frontier Schools,” said Ugur

Demircan, superintendent of Frontier Schools. “By providing every student and teacher with

access to Chromebooks, along with comprehensive internet connectivity and specialized

coaching, we are ensuring that our educational environment fosters innovation, engagement,

and excellence. Our inclusion in the Verizon Innovative Learning Schools program is a

testament to our commitment to preparing students for a promising future, equipped with the

skills and knowledge to thrive in the digital age. We look forward to seeing how this initiative will

enhance our teaching and learning processes, making a significant difference in the lives of our

students and the broader community.”

“Verizon is proud to welcome Frontier Schools to the Verizon Innovative Learning

program,” said Josh Miller, manager of municipal and community affairs at Verizon. “Through

this transformative program, we are working to increase digital inclusion and enable students to

acquire the skills they need to thrive in a digital world. In particular, STEM is key in education

and the workforce, and Verizon Innovative Learning will be a great resource for the Frontier

Schools students."

Verizon Innovative Learning is driving academic improvements. In fact, 82 percent of

teachers reported that Verizon Innovative Learning enhanced their ability to differentiate

instruction and 77 percent said the program enhanced student engagement. These efforts to support digital inclusion are part of Citizen Verizon, Verizon’s responsible business plan to move the world forward for all.

Below are photos capturing the comprehensive training sessions attended by Frontier staff for the program.

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Interim President of MCC - Penn Valley Visits Frontier Schools

On February 22nd, we were honored to welcome Dr. Larry Rideaux, Interim President of Metropolitan Community College - Penn Valley, to Frontier STEM High School and our Central Office for an insightful exploration of our Innovation Lab. Thank you for your visit, Dr. Rideaux!

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Funding Partners Assist Students in Need

There are nearly 100 Frontier students who are homeless, in foster care or require special assistance. The school’s social service department works with these families to provide essential student needs including food, clothing, school materials, hygienic supplies, basic medical assistance, emergency transport and other extraordinary needs. The Superintendent is pleased to announce that the R.A. Long Foundation has joined with the Kearney Wornall Charitable Trust and Foundation UMB Bank, n.a. to provide funds that assist the school in helping these students. Says senior social service worker Melissa Meyer, “We are so appreciative of these funding partners that help Frontier give these students a stable place where they can find a home.”

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Solar Car Team Participates in Solar Car Challenge Workshop

Recently, Frontier's Solar Car Team embarked on a journey to Dallas, TX, for the Solar Car Challenge Workshop. This invaluable experience allowed our students to engage with teachers, team advisors, judges, and event staff, enhancing their understanding of the competition and fostering valuable connections within the solar car community.

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Frontier Schools Celebrates Black History Month

February was Black History Month, the celebration of African American history, contributions, and achievements. All campuses celebrated in various ways by honoring the tradition and educating students on Black history and culture. FSI Elementary hosted a memorable black history program in the FSI Middle gymnasium, while FSE organized an assembly and a spirited week where participants dressed up each day, embodying individuals known for their resilience, inspiration, and winning traits. Additionally, FSI Middle's Social Studies classes crafted a captivating display featuring Black History figures within the periodic table of elements, adding an educational and artistic touch to the celebration.

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National School Counselor Week

From February 5th to 9th, we celebrated National School Counseling Week, extending our heartfelt appreciation to our dedicated school counselors for their invaluable support and guidance to our students.

Science Olympiad Qualifies for State

On February 24th, the FSI Middle team competed with full force, boasting 15 students who participated in all 23 events, alongside a partial team of 4 students who tackled 7 events. Amongst 13 competing teams from 11 schools, we proudly secured 3rd place overall, clinching our ticket to the State level competition on April 6th. This marks our 3rd consecutive year advancing to this prestigious event.

Our achievements were abundant, as we medaled in 7 out of 23 events. We secured 3rd place in Air Trajectory, Dynamic Planet, Flight, Fossils, Optics, and Wind Power. Additionally, we took 2nd place in Meteorology.

Furthermore, we're delighted to share that our district had another team advancing. Despite this being FSE's inaugural year in the competition, they secured 5th place overall. With only one advancing team per school, FSE's outstanding performance earns them a spot at the State competition alongside us.

This success reflects our team's dedication and hard work, and we're eager to showcase our talents at the State level.

Career & College Fair at FSE

On February 23rd, Frontier School of Excellence hosted an enriching career fair in their gymnasium, offering students a diverse array of insights into various professions. The event featured representatives from over 30 different career fields, providing students with invaluable exposure to potential career paths.

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Parent Teacher Conferences

On February 9th, all campuses held Parent Teacher Conferences. Conferences are designed to increase communication between school and home, keep parents informed about their child's progress, and develop a plan for the student's future.

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Breakfast With Champions

On February 23rd, mentors from New Western visited our middle school students to discuss their aspirations for future education and life endeavors. They offered insightful advice and engaged students in meaningful conversations within small group settings.

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Students Delight in 'Romeo and Juliet' Opera Experience at Kauffman Center

On March 8, 2024, students embarked on an unforgettable experience at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, where they were captivated by the timeless opera "Romeo and Juliet." Their enthusiastic reception and enjoyment of the performance were evident, as they immersed themselves in the beauty and emotion of the production.

Family Night at FSI Elementary

On February 28th, FSI Elementary hosted a Family Night, providing parents with an array of engaging activities. Attendees had the chance to explore the bookfair selection, access items from the food pantry, engage in interactive games, and admire the STEM projects students have been diligently preparing for the upcoming KC STEM FEST.

FSI Middle Celebrates 100th Day of School

FSI Middle School recently celebrated a milestone: the 100th day of the academic year! Students and staff alike joined in on the festivities, marking this special occasion with enthusiasm and excitement.

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College Visits

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

February 6th: 7th grade students at FSI Middle visit UMKC

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Home Visits

Teachers and school staff have visited 486 students in 406 homes since the start of the 2023-24 school year. Home visits are paramount in bridging cultural gaps that might exist. These visits also provide opportunities for staff to understand their students better by visiting them in their home environments.

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