Independence, MO – August 15, 2024 – The Independence School District ushered in the new school year by welcoming back district employees at the 2024 Convocation ceremony. More than 2,500 educators, administrators, and support staff came together to kick off the start of the school year. Facilities Lead Groundsman Jason Whitaker was named this year’s […]
There is a place for you here in the ISD. Our staff is what makes us so wonderful, and it’s the only way we are able to support our students so well. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, please join us for a conversation about how you can join […]
As we gear up for the upcoming 2024-25 school year, we are excited to invite you to be a part of the ISD community through volunteering. Your involvement can make a profound impact on the lives of our students and the overall success of our schools. Why Volunteer? Volunteering in the ISD school district is […]
The Independence School District online registration to enroll for the 2024-25 school year is now open. Register online at: registration.isdschools.org 🚌 IMPORTANT: If your student will need a bus pass, your registration must be completed by July 26! 🚌 Find information about proof of residency, forms, and immunization requirements on our online Admissions Center at isdschools.org/admissions/. You may also […]
Project Shine, the Independence School District Foundation‘s annual community project, refreshed three ISD schools this year: Hanthorn Early Education Center, Fairmount Elementary, and Truman High School. Volunteers spread a total of 2,400 pounds of mulch and covered 322,292 square feet of classroom and hallway walls with 550 gallons of paint. Thank you to all the […]
The ISD is excited to announce two of the newest members of our administrative team: Tierney Solis and Stacy Smith. Tierney Solis is joining the district as the Principal of Glendale Elementary. She is coming to us from the Kansas City International Academy where she has served as Assistant Principal, ELD Coordinator, and Instructional Coach. […]
Fourteen ISD schools have earned the 2023-24 Missouri School-Wide Positive Behavior Support (SW-PBS) Award of Excellence for their exemplary implementation of multi-tiered systems of behavioral support. Spring Branch Elementary was honored as the Dr. Mary Richter School of Distinction Award Recipient for their building-wide strategies to continuously renew and improve their implementation of school-wide positive […]
Following April’s school board election, voters reelected Carrie Dixon who was chosen to serve as board president. Alongside Dixon’s reelection, the board welcomes two new directors: Wendy Baird and Brandi Pruente. Each was elected to serve a six-year term. They were sworn in at the April 9, 2024 board meeting. Carrie Dixon is an active […]
Congratulations to the ISD graduating class of 2024! See galleries from the graduation ceremonies below. All graduation ceremonies can be viewed at this playlist: Youtube Graduation Playlist
William Chrisman High School 2024 Graduation May 17, 6:30PMWatch on Facebook Truman High School 2024 Graduation May 18, 5PMWatch on Facebook Van Horn High School 2024 Graduation May 18, 6:30PMWatch on Facebook
The senior class of 2024 revisited schools in their high school feeder pattern to pay tribute and say goodbye. Truman High School Chrisman High School Van Horn High School Independence Academy
Results from a recent survey conducted by researchers at Missouri State University have shed light on stakeholder sentiments regarding the implementation of a four-day instructional week in the ISD. The survey, which sought to gauge the opinions of various groups, including families, teachers/staff, and students, has highlighted key insights into the perceived benefits and challenges […]
Art Capstone student Bri Thurmon was selected as a 2024 Missouri Senate Student Fine Arts Exhibit honoree. Her work was specially selected by Independence’s Senator John Rizzo to represent his district. Bri travelled to Jefferson City for the exhibition and met with Senator Rizzo. Her artwork now hangs in the Missouri Capitol building.
Through the AVID program, all seventh grade ISD students practiced career-readiness skills in preparation for mock interviews this spring. Students completed interest surveys, practiced resume writing and learned interview skills. Over seventy community members then conducted mock interviews with each student.
Truman High School senior Ian Ferguson was named a recipient of MO Scholars 100, a prestigious honor awarded for his academic achievement and involvement in his school community. Ian will be honored along the other MO Scholars 100 at a luncheon April 21, 2024. Ian was nominated for this award by Truman Principal Ronda Scott. […]
Congratulations to Project Lead the Way Biomedical Innovation senior, Adriana Sarinana from Van Horn for receiving one of the 2024 Grand Awards at the Greater KC Science & Engineering Fair (GKCSEF) with her project titled, “A Hands-Free Approach to Adhesive Bandage Application for Enhanced Sterility and Convenience.” Adriana will present her project at the Regeneron […]
Van Horn High School’s Dr. Justin Woods was named High School Principal of the Year by the Greater Kansas City MO Principals Association (GKCMPA). Dr. Woods will be honored at the GKCMPA banquet April 17th. The ISD is so grateful for Dr. Woods’ leadership at Van Horn and throughout the district.
Congratulations to all Academy Award nominees and winners! Students were nominated by staff for their work ethic, academic achievement and participation within the Academy Pathways. The winners were announced at a banquet attended by their families and school staff. Academy Teacher of the Year: Jim Oatman, Van Horn High School Freshman Academy Student of the […]
Full video: https://youtu.be/LqFELRnH1Vs?si=C9UfQvSlieIYSN69ISD Employee Health Clinic: https://sites.google.com/site/isdhealthclinic/ISD Wellness Center: http://sites.isdschools.org/wellness/wellness-centerHenley Aquatic Center: http://sites.isdschools.org/henley/index In the ISD, we’re not just educating minds; we’re nurturing the health and wellness of our ISD employees and their families. That’s why all district ISD employees and retirees, and their families, have access to the ISD Health Clinic, ISD Wellness Center, and the Henley […]
📣 Online Kindergarten Registration is open! Step 1: Register Online Step 2: Contact Your School You will need to contact your child’s school to complete the enrollment process. This includes completing the in-person screening and providing a copy of your child’s birth certificate and immunization records. Find your school at ISDschools.org/boundary. School contact information can […]
Full video: https://youtu.be/vu4RfMmmgMw?si=NjCez7yh3FcN-FEz The Independence School District is grateful for the partnership of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) in our mission of building a community of support and excellence for the benefit of our students. “‘Home and school should work together for the good of the child’,” reads Board of Education Director Jill Esry from the […]
Full video: https://youtu.be/Ou2bGciSZjc?si=luPvHYLtabXNr7kL In August 2023, Independence voters passed a levy ballot measure that will give all Independence School District employees a raise beginning in the 2024-2025 school year. “We’re doing everything we can do in today’s environment to attract the best in every facet of our school district,” says Board of Education President Eric […]
Full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5diWZdRLt70 The Independence School District has integrated mental health education into the curriculum because we understand the importance of nurturing both academic growth and student well-being. “Mental health care is really important and I believe the ISD is really taking the steps that they need to take to make sure that our kids […]
ISD Academies students had the opportunity to tour a college with a program specific to their pathway of interest. This experience helps to bridge the gap between high school and higher education, giving students a clear vision of their options after graduation. Students toured the following campuses: University of Central Missouri (UCM) Warrensburg CampusBenedictine CollegeKansas […]
