Superintendent Communications
As Superintendent, I believe in the power of communication. I will strive to connect, engage, and communicate with all district families, staff, and community members. Follow along as I post superintendent communications throughout the school year.
A Note from the Superintendent
Dear Raytown Quality Schools Families:
The beginning of a new school year is a very exciting time for students and staff alike. The time has come for us to welcome our students to a new school year filled with opportunities for learning and success. Our teachers and staff have worked tirelessly to prepare schools and classrooms that will soon come alive.
Our goal is to ensure students attend school regularly, in a safe and orderly environment, free of distractions. Attendance is
a single indicator that predicts the future success of children. We will continue to hold ourselves and students to high expectations and accountability. Our efforts to focus on a positive culture and school climate will continue to serve as the foundation of our district and allow for strategic focus on instruction.
The safety and well-being of our students and staff is paramount to the work we do every day. Our district has amazing security, staff, and safety protocols and plans in place. In terms of safety, it is most important that we address the most recent weather forecast.
As you may be aware, the Raytown community is under an excessive heat warning until 10 p.m. on Thursday, August 24.
As we prepare for the first week of school, we want to partner with you to keep students safe and as cool as possible in these hot weather conditions.
RQS is taking the following precautions:
- Water will be available on the school bus in the afternoons for students should they need it.
- Students who walk home from school will be encouraged to bring a water bottle and fill it up before dismissal.
- The district will follow guidance from the National Weather Service to determine if recess will be held outdoors or indoors.
- District coaches will follow the Missouri State High Schools Athletic Association’s guidelines for practice and will adjust practice times as needed.
As your student leaves for school in the morning please:
- Encourage them to stay hydrated and stay away from sugary drinks. They should drink water throughout the day even if they aren’t feeling thirsty.
- Carry a water bottle.
- Wear lightweight, loose fitting, light colored clothing.
- Wear sunscreen.
- Limit outdoor activity.
- Review signs of heat related illness.
As our partners in this work, we ask that you remain active by staying informed. We have multiple means to communicate with you, one of which is our C-2 View newsletter, the school and district website, and social media. Please ensure your contact information is accurate so that you receive all communications.
Looking ahead, I know we will have a year filled with HOPE for all of our students. Partnering, we can inspire our students to become leaders and positive contributors to our community and society. We have so many amazing students attending our school district who are eager and ready to demonstrate their ability to learn, and make us proud.
As we begin the 2023-24 school year, I cannot adequately express how fortunate I feel to be part of such an amazing school district and community. It is an honor for me to serve our students, staff, parents and the Raytown Quality Schools community. The entire RQS staff and Board of Education is here to help our children succeed and to develop a lifelong love for learning. Welcome Back!
Respectfully,
Dr. Penelope Martin-Knox
Superintendent