Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Charter School?
An independent public school is an alternative to the regular public school system. Charter schools are alike in the following ways:
They receive public tax support.
They cannot charge tuition nor discriminate in student enrollment.
They are non-profit organizations governed by a board that assumes legal, financial, and program oversight responsibilities.
They must satisfy their sponsor and the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) that students are progressing academically.
Each can hire and fire its staff.
Each may determine its system for reaching the state's curricular goals.
Who manages the school?
Gordon Parks is led by the Chief Executive Officer, Kirsten Lipari-Braman, and our School Principal is Dr. Kent Yocum. In addition to the leadership on-site, our governing board provides guidance and perspective as needed.
Who may apply to attend Gordon Parks Elementary?
Anyone in the Kansas City, Missouri, School District may apply for Pre-kindergarten through fourth grade. Call the school office (816.753.6700) for more enrollment information.
Is transportation provided?
Complimentary door-to-door transportation is provided to our students within the district's parameters. Feel free to get in touch with the school office (816.753.6700) for more information regarding bus transportation.
What are the school hours?
The school office is open from 7:45 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. every day. Please reach out to the school office at 816.753.6700 for more information.
Is the staff qualified?
Teachers are appropriately certified and highly qualified as state and federal law requires.
What is the student-to-teacher ratio?
The overall student-to-teacher ratio at Gordon Parks Elementary is 11:1.
What is expected of me as a parent?
Please make sure your student arrives on time and with plenty of rest, ready to start the school day at 8:00 a.m. By ensuring your child is present every day, you show your child that you value education. You are also expected to watch for and respond to notes from school, provide updated contact information to the school, spend at least 20 minutes each day listening and reading with your child, come to school meetings and volunteer at Gordon Parks when possible.