Frontier News
April 2024
5th Annual KC STEM FEST
On March 1st, Frontier Schools proudly hosted the 5th Annual KC STEM FEST, marking another year of celebration and innovation in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The event resonated as a success, with students enthralled as they showcased their projects and achievements.
At Frontier, our unwavering commitment to fostering STEM education and equipping students for prosperous careers in these pivotal fields remains steadfast. In recognition of their exemplary advocacy for STEM advancement in Kansas City, Frontier Schools also presented Henderson Engineers with the 2024 KC STEM Leader Award.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors, partners, dedicated staff, enthusiastic students, and the supportive community whose collective efforts made this event possible. Your contributions played an integral role in making KC STEM FEST an impactful event. Thank you for your unwavering support!
Recognizing Excellence: Henderson Engineers Honored with KC STEM Leader Award
On March 1st, Henderson Engineers had the honor of receiving the prestigious KC STEM Leader Award from Frontier Schools. This esteemed accolade signifies our sincere gratitude for Henderson's invaluable contribution to advancing STEM education in Kansas City. We extend our heartfelt thanks for your unwavering support of Frontier Schools throughout the years.
FSI Middle HOSA Excels at Missouri State Leadership Conference
At the Missouri STATE Leadership Conference in Rolla, MO, on March 24th, our FSI Middle HOSA students showcased their skills in Academic Medical competitions and achieved outstanding results:
- Samara R.: 1st Position, Extemporaneous Health Poster
- Emily V.: 2nd Position, Extemporaneous Health Poster
- Joe B.: 1st Position, Health Career Exploration
- Emmy L.: 2nd Position, Health Career Exploration
- Ahmet K.: 1st Position, Life Threatening Situations
- Dyland L.: 2nd Position, Life Threatening Situations
- XaingChi D.: 1st Position, Math for Health Careers
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Demircan and all those who supported our students. Congratulations to our exceptional HOSA team for their remarkable achievements!
Achievements at Missouri STATE Leadership Conference: Frontier STEM HOSA Shines
On March 24th, Frontier STEM HOSA students embarked on a journey to the Missouri STATE Leadership Conference in Rolla, MO, engaging in Academic Medical competitions. The following students showcased their talents:
- Honey Robinson: State Finalist in Cultural Diversity & Disparities in Healthcare
- Valeria Gonzalez: State Finalist in CERT Skills
- Yusuf Yusuf: State Finalist in CERT Skills / Top 5 Healthcare Issue Exam
- Khalid Abdullahi: State Finalist in CERT Skills / Top 5 Healthcare Issue Exam
- Michael Milian: State Finalist in Medical Math / 3rd Place in Biochemistry
- Jose Morgan: State Finalist in Medical Reserve Corps Partnership
- Jaime Leon: State Finalist in Medical Reserve Corps Partnership
- Yamilet Rodriguez: State Finalist in Clinical Specialties
Additionally, Irene Castaneda earned 3rd Place in Health Informatics, with her award graciously accepted in her absence.
Furthermore, the entire chapter received recognition for their outstanding efforts in the National Service Project, earning Awards of Merit.
Congratulations to all the students for their remarkable achievements and a heartfelt thank you to Mr. Kramer for his unwavering dedication and hard work in preparing our students for success.
FSHS Successes at the Greater KC Science & Engineering Fair
Two students from Frontier STEM High School exhibited impressive achievements at the recent Greater KC Science & Engineering Fair held at Union Station. Their notable contributions are deserving of recognition:
Iusuf Akiiuz (10th grade) attained the Silver Ribbon and a White Award, a special mention, along with a certificate for his project "Solar Panel Efficiency under Global Warming Effect."
Safio Hassan (12th grade) received the Silver Award for her project "Sound Insulation Analysis on Miniature Constructions."
Congratulations to both students for their outstanding accomplishments!
Empowering Education: Frontier Schools Partners with Verizon Innovative Learning
Frontier Schools has recently partnered with Verizon Innovative Learning, an acclaimed educational initiative aimed at tackling obstacles to digital inclusion. This collaboration offers complimentary technology devices, internet access, and cutting-edge STEM education programs, ensuring that students in underserved schools have access to the technology, education, and opportunities they deserve.
Starting in fall 2024, every student and teacher will receive free Chromebooks along with Verizon data plans. Furthermore, participating schools will benefit from the guidance of a dedicated full-time coach, who will support teachers in seamlessly integrating technology into their curriculum.
In March, we were thrilled to receive 144 Chromebooks for our staff, marking the beginning of an exciting journey toward enhanced learning opportunities for our entire school community.
FSHS Students Embark on Ivy League Exploration Journey in the Northeast
From March 14th to March 18th, 13 select juniors from Frontier STEM High School embarked on an enriching journey to explore some of the nation's leading universities. Organized by Frontier Schools, the trip took them to three esteemed institutions in the Northeast, including Boston University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Yale University.
Throughout the excursion, students engaged in insightful discussions with admissions officers and current university attendees, gaining invaluable insights into the academic programs and campus life. They participated in informative presentations and immersive campus tours, allowing them to envision their potential future at these prestigious institutions.
In addition to their university visits, students had the opportunity to explore several historic cities, providing them with rich cultural and educational experiences that complemented their academic pursuits.
Musical Triumphs: FSE Falcon Band Soars to New Heights!
On March 13th, the entire FSE Falcon Band delivered an outstanding performance, setting a new standard for musical excellence at our school. Their exceptional talent and dedication promise an unforgettable experience at upcoming contests. Get ready, because they're poised to leave audiences in awe this year!
Then, on March 16th, seven students showcased their musical prowess at Grain Valley High School, performing solos and impressing judges with their heartfelt performances. Every student who took the stage deserves recognition for their remarkable performances, captivating the room with their passion and skill.
A special commendation goes to Rolando Segura and Taurean Fuller for earning "outstanding" ratings, the second-highest possible achievement. And let's give a resounding round of applause to Karen Caballero for achieving an "exemplary" rating, the highest possible accolade. Karen's exceptional performance has earned her the opportunity to showcase her solo once more at the MSHSAA State Solo Festival in Columbia on April 25-27th. Congratulations to all our talented musicians!
Timecraft: FSI Middle Students Design Custom Clocks with Bayer Mentors
On March 26th, Bayer engineer mentors, along with the guidance of Dr. Geyik and Mr. Sanders, collaborated with FSI Middle students to create one-of-a-kind clocks. With the support and expertise of the Bayer mentors, students were given the freedom to select their preferred clock hands and customize their designs, allowing them to showcase their unique styles and creativity.
College Visits
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.
March 5th: FSI Middle (8th grade) visit UCM
March 6th: FSI Middle (8th grade) visit MWSU
March 6th: FSHS Freshman visit NWMSU
March 27th: FSI Middle (8th grade) visit UMKC
March 28th: FSHS top 10 Sophomores visit WashU
Parent Academy Events: March
The Parent Academy is a FREE, district-wide initiative that strives to open the lines of communication between home and school by connecting parents to the resources and information needed to support their child's education.
Throughout the year, all campuses will host several Parent Academy events that will consist of educational and inspirational sessions covering a wide variety of topics; including, Conscious Discipline at Home, College Prep and Financial Aid, FAFSA, NWEA, etc.
- March 8th: MAP Testing (What it is, testing strategies, school/home preparation) at FSI Elementary
Home Visits
Teachers and school staff have visited 488 students in 410 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!
Friends of Frontier is Here!
In connection with KC STEM FEST 2024 on Friday, March 1st at Union Station, the New Frontier Education Foundation welcomed nearly 150 guests to our inaugural VIP Breakfast to officially kick-off our Friends of Frontier student success program.
Frontier Schools and New Frontier Educational Foundation founder, Greg Rieke provided a historical
perspective to set the tone for the event. Greg introduced, Frontier Superintendent, Ugur Demircan who recounted several impressive achievements by Frontier students, including:
- Largest Charter School in Kansas City (serving 1,600 students from Pre-K through 12)
- Strong STEM Focus
- Student Diversity (69% Hispanic, 22% Black)
- 41.9% English Language Learners
- High Academic Achievement (86.3% APR Score in 2023)
- 100% College Acceptance Rate (representing 37 different colleges/universities)
- Students received over $2 Million in college scholarship awards this year
During the event, notable business, civic, and academic leaders as well as alumni spoke on the
transformative power of education – specifically, the importance of Frontier Schools – to enrich all
members of the KC community.
Each speaker covered a different kind of “Friend” that is needed in providing support to help
Frontier students achieve their dreams in life:
- Financial Contributors – Joe Close, Country Club Bank
- Volunteers/Mentors – Poet t.l. Sanders, Frontier Schools
- Corporate Partners – Devin Caruthers, Henderson Engineers
- Academic/Non-Profit Alliances – Lia McIntosh, KC Rising
- Advisory Board/Alumni Support – Nabil Abas, Frontier Alumnus
Our friends at Henderson Engineers received the 2024 KC STEM Leader Award for the tremendous
contributions they made in support of STEM education and our Frontier students in many ways.
If you would like to learn more about how you and your organization can become a “Friend” of Frontier, please visit our website at www.MyNewFrontier.org and contact us.
Let’s be Friends!
Alumni Spotlight!
We are always proud of the amazing work of Frontier alumni. Our spotlight highlights the work of alumni who are using their talents to make a difference.
This month's Alumni Spotlight shines on Riyana Sheikhnoor, a distinguished graduate from Frontier STEM High School's class of 2022. Riyana is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a Pre-med emphasis and a Minor in Chemistry at UMKC. Watch the video below to discover how her experiences at FSHS have paved the way for her journey beyond high school.
Career Opportunities at Frontier Schools
Discover rewarding careers at Frontier Schools. Join our passionate team in fostering student success with competitive pay and benefits!
Exciting News: Our commitment to educators was featured on Fox 4 News KC, showcasing our starting teacher pay of $60K! Read the article here.
Click here to explore our career opportunities now!
Join Our Team: Frontier Schools Seeking Bus Drivers!
Frontier Schools has secured the lease of 8 buses and is actively seeking qualified drivers to join our team. If you know anyone interested in becoming a bus driver for our schools, please direct them to our website at www.frontierschools.org, under Careers>Job Openings.
As an added incentive, bus drivers starting their employment at Frontier this year will enjoy an increased salary of $27.04/hour for the 2024-25 school year, reflecting additional Frontier work experience. Further compensation adjustments will be made for relevant school experience and educational qualifications.
Exciting Summer Leadership Camps Await!
Don't let your student miss out on this year's Summer Leadership Camp. Reach out to your campus front office staff for more details.
Frontier School of Innovation Elementary (Pre K-3)
Email: fsi@frontierschools.org
Location: 6700 Corporate Drive, Kansas City, MO, USA
Phone: (816) 363-1907
Facebook: facebook.com/frontierschoolofinnovation
Frontier School of Innovation Middle (4-8)
Email: fsi@frontierschools.org
Location: 1575 Universal Avenue, Kansas City, MO, USA
Phone: (816) 241-6202
Facebook: facebook.com/frontierschoolofinnovation
Frontier STEM High School (9-12)
Email: infostem@frontierschools.org
Location: 6455 East Commerce Avenue, Kansas City, MO, USA
Phone: (816) 541-8200
Facebook: facebook.com/frontierstemhighschool
Frontier School of Excellence (6-12)
Email: fse@frontierschools.org
Location: 5605 Troost Avenue, Kansas City, MO, USA
Phone: (816) 822-1331
Facebook: facebook.com/frontierschoolofexcellence
Frontier Schools
Website: frontierschools.org
Location: 6800 Corporate Drive, Kansas City, MO, USA
Phone: (816) 982-4052
Facebook: facebook.com/frontierschools
Twitter: @frontierschools