[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 115 (Tuesday, July 10, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E992-E993]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 IN RECOGNITION OF THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF KANSAS CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. EMANUEL CLEAVER

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 10, 2018

  Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I proudly rise today to recognize and 
celebrate the 150th Anniversary of Kansas City Public Schools (KCPS) 
and its many contributions to youth in Kansas City. As a cornerstone of 
the community, I am truly honored to have this institution in the 
Congressional District that I represent.
  Kansas City Public Schools began humbly as the Kansas City Missouri 
School District in 1867, serving only 2,150 children in the Kansas City 
area. Since its formation, KCPS has faced and overcome many hurdles, 
from segregation and racial barriers in the 1960s, to funding and 
accreditation in the 1980s to the early 2000s. Throughout these 
challenges, KCPS has exemplified true resilience and shaped the future 
of education in Kansas City for the better. In its journey to gain full 
accreditation, KCPS turned times of struggle into opportunities for 
advancement, exploration, and innovation. The KCPS system launched 
mentor programs to conscientiously provide students with support and 
guidance. Recently, it spearheaded the Middle College Program that 
allows students who have dropped out of school to complete their high 
school education and prepare for technical school or a two-year degree 
program at no cost. Moreover, it fostered community partnerships with 
the public sector, private sector, business leaders, volunteers, and 
stakeholders to ensure the district has resources to meet the needs of 
every student and their family. KCPS has faced adversity, but never 
threw in the towel.
  The KCPS system established itself as a source of stability for not 
only education, but also for families and the community. KCPS preserves 
its commitment to fostering a rich, diverse, and inclusive environment 
by providing services for English language learners, homeless students 
in transition, students with learning disabilities, and many others. 
This pledge to both student and family outreach demonstrates true 
assiduity and ensures that education is an equitable opportunity for 
all.
  Today, the Kansas City Public School system employs 2,300 teachers 
and educates nearly 16,700 students annually. Of these, nearly 91 
percent of students come from marginalized communities, and more than 
50 languages are spoken in its 35 schools, centers, and programs. KCPS 
gives students the tools necessary to be college and career-ready, 
empowering them to achieve their dreams.
  KCPS sets itself apart as an innovator, advocate, and champion. 
Undoubtedly, a century and a half of educating youth and serving the 
community is no easy feat. However, the spirit of the district, 
dedication of the administrators and teachers, and the commitment to 
growth is what allows the Kansas City Public School system to continue 
achieving its vision.
  In our diverse city with students from all walks of life, the 
importance of having access to a quality public education is critical 
in ensuring doors of opportunity for the youth of Kansas City continue 
to open. It gives me

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great hope for the future knowing that institutions like KCPS are 
devoted to a holistic support system for its scholars. I can say with 
confidence that the KCPS legacy will continue to shape the minds of 
students for generations to come.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring the students and staff, both 
past and present, who made it possible for Kansas City Public Schools 
to achieve this monumental milestone.

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