Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Academies of Raytown?
The Academies of Raytown are a personalized, career-connected learning model designed to help students explore interests, build real-world skills, and prepare for life after high school. Through smaller learning communities and focused career pathways, students connect classroom learning to college, trade school, the military, and high-demand, high-wage careers.
This model is part of Raytown Quality Schools’ long-term commitment to transforming the high school experience so every student graduates academically strong, confident, and prepared for the future. The district partners with Ford Next Generation Learning, a national nonprofit that supports school systems in reimagining education around career readiness and student success.
What is the Freshman Academy?
The Freshman Academy is a dedicated learning experience for all 9th-grade students at Raytown and Raytown South High Schools. Every freshman is automatically enrolled.
The Freshman Academy is designed to:
- Support students as they transition from middle school to high school
- Build strong academic habits and confidence
- Introduce students to career exploration and future planning
Through the Freshman Seminar course, students learn study skills, test-taking strategies, and explore careers connected to college, the workforce, and the military. Students also participate in career fairs, pathway speakers, college and technical school visits, and activities that help them plan their next steps.
What pathways are available to students?
Beginning in the 2026–2027 school year, students in grades 10–12 will select a “home” academy and pathway aligned to their interests and goals. The eight career pathways are:
- Healthcare
- Human Services
- First Responders
- Environmental Science
- Business & Marketing
- Arts, Entertainment, & Design
- Manufacturing & Industrial Trades
- Information Technology
During freshman year, students explore all pathways before indicating their preferences and creating a four-year academic and career plan.
How does the academy model benefit students?
Research shows that smaller learning communities and career-connected instruction lead to better student outcomes. The Academies of Raytown are designed to:
- Increase student engagement and sense of belonging
- Improve attendance and graduation rates
- Reduce behavior issues
- Provide clear connections between school and future careers
Students benefit from:
- Personalized learning plans and 1:1 technology
- Inquiry-based and real-world learning experiences
- Opportunities to learn from industry professionals
- Internships and career exploration experiences
- A structured sequence of courses within their chosen pathway
Each academy is supported by a dedicated team that includes an Academy Principal, Counselor, Interventionist, teachers, and staff who work closely with students and families.
When do students choose a pathway?
Students explore career options throughout their freshman year. During the spring semester, they update their academic and career plans and select a preferred academy and pathway for grades 10–12.
Students may explore a different academy at the end of 10th grade if interests change, though remaining in a “home” academy allows students to complete a full program of study. Regardless of academy placement, students can still take electives and participate in activities outside their academy.