CSDGKC expands its reach, adding another new member this year

Getting support and gaining insights on important issues facing school districts is among the reasons East Buchanan School District joined Cooperating School Districts of Greater Kansas City last year, according to Dr. John Newell, superintendent.

“Our district is uniquely situated as a rural district that is geographically adjacent to a major metropolitan area,” Dr. Newell said. “This unique placement provides opportunities and challenges for our district.”

Membership also allows the rural district to see issues in education from the lens of those in larger suburban and urban districts, said Dr. Newell, a participant in CSDGKC’s Education Policy Leadership and Advanced Education Policy Leadership Programs.

“With education under the microscope and hammer at all levels, we feel it is important to be a part of a coalition of schools that is looking to protect, enhance and promote public education,” he added.

CSDGKC represents urban, suburban and rural school districts with student populations ranging from around 250 to more than 20,000. The 36 districts are located in Bates, Buchanan, Caldwell, Cass, Clay, Clinton, Henry, Jackson, Lafayette, Platte and Ray counties in Missouri.