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Missouri’s annual back-to-school sales tax holiday begins at 12:01 a.m. Friday, August 4th, and runs through midnight on Sunday, August 6th. During this time, certain back-to-school purchases such as school supplies, computers, clothing, diapers, and other qualifying items as defined by statute are exempt from all state and local sales tax. 💻✏️🎒👕
New this year, in addition to the state sales tax, local sales tax will also be waived in all cities, counties, and special tax districts.
Learn more about qualifying purchases in the Missouri Department of Revenue’s news release.
![red backpack full of school supplies](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4862335/large_-4tjnpGKiBWI47hKLYi_4Q.png)
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Big news!
Retired teachers can return to the classroom without interrupting their monthly pension income! Educators can continue to draw full retirement while earning a full teaching salary and benefits - without retirement contributions! We are looking for retired teachers to join the Ray-Pec School District for 2023-24, as well as special education teachers and more!
Visit our website to view current openings: www.raypec.org/o/rpsd/page/work-for-ray-pec
![calling all retired teachers](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4853868/large_9AR6XfWHFZDZVEwJu-KDNg.png)
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The School Board on Thursday night recognized Bethany Woodson-Roth, a special education teacher at Raymore Elementary School, for going above and beyond and being a special influence in a student's life. She is pictured with Board Member Carol Barnes, at right.
During the 2014-15 school year (Bethany's first year teaching special education and her first at Ray-Pec), she spent much time helping a student academically and socially. At the end of the year, she promised him that she would attend his high school graduation. Although the student later moved to Tennessee, Bethany kept that promise. In May, she drove to Tennessee to be there as he graduated.
![Bethany Woodson-Roth, a special education teacher at Raymore Elementary School, pictured with Board Member Carol Barnes, at right.](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4844052/large_ZvSVILDzJzvgHYPQWU3czw.jpeg)
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One more day of playground equipment installation at Raymore Elementary!
Surface work starts next week but you may notice the overhead power lines being removed this week.
![Raymore Elementary School playground](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4839302/large_R-37UsiiyMq6x83T83k8kw.jpeg)
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Ever considered driving a bus for the Raymore-Peculiar School District? Come give one a test drive on Aug. 3! If you like it, training is provided, pay starts at $19/hour (paid a minimum of 5 hours per day), and you get a $3,500 signing bonus! You can also sign up to just drive activity trips.
![Big bus? No big deal! event information.](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4839237/large_l0urY66gbp_MWbhwGsxd8Q.jpeg)
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Ray-Pec is committed to data-driven decision making.
Our Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) is a framework designed to meet the unique needs of all learners through data-based problem solving and decision making.
MTSS is practiced across all levels of education and is designed to help our schools identify struggling students early and to intervene quickly. Driven by student progress data collection, this approach prompts intervention for those who fall behind — and aligns both academic standards and behavioral expectations to enable every child to reach their fullest potential.
That’s our #RayPecCommitment
Learn more about our Multi-Tiered System of Supports: raypec.k12.mo.us/page/multi-tiered-system-of-supports
![Dr. Mike Slagle speaking to staff members](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4838878/large_i7nyPr5Vv6l2nfHeG75Wng.png)
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Media Makers Studio, the latest summer camp at the LEAD Center, is under way! Middle school students will be working with local businesses to develop promotional plans and marketing materials to promote their business.
Real World Learning and early career exploration are just some of the ways the Raymore-Peculiar School District is becoming a School of Choice.
Today Bobbi Bond, owner of Baked by Bobbi, stopped by with her cookie truck to let students decorate and eat some of her delicious cookies while they discussed ways that they could help her expand her business. Business partners like Bobbi are an invaluable resource to our students.
Thanks Bobbi! 🍪
![Bobbi Bond, owner of Baked by Bobbi, speaks to students while they decorate cookies](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4830393/large_FQAhj4R71zKeVVZAMvLIGw.jpeg)
![Student decorates cookie](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4830394/large_kipeoIwm-j0DKujSKYMmig.jpeg)
![Baked by Bobbi cookie truck](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4830395/large_iLIqQi1k56gG90SwZ16-AQ.jpeg)
![Bobbi Bond, owner of Baked by Bobbi, speaks to students on her cookie truck](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4830396/large_g7AF3oWvKSu0_vZxrzobuA.jpeg)
![Baked by Bobbi food truck](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4830397/large_kecLW3xsmCQNvw3nZXYCjQ.jpeg)
![Student eating cookie](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4830398/large_YY6r8zhp5a5rY-L2J102Dg.jpeg)
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Ray-Pec is committed to building a safe, trusting and collaborative environment.
Safety is our top priority. From comprehensive security protocols to creating inclusive spaces, we work to ensure the physical and emotional wellbeing of everyone within our district.
Trust is the foundation of our district community. We believe that open communication, transparency and respect are essential for learning and growth.
Collaboration drives us forward. We understand the power of teamwork and actively promote collaboration among students, teachers, parents and the broader community.
By working together in each of these areas, we leverage diverse perspectives to create a rich, engaging educational experience.
That’s our #RayPecCommitment
![we're committed to: a safe, trusting and collaborative environment](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4786713/large_sC0p_IRhwipDPzPiOz7xwg.png)
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The new Raymore Elementary School playground equipment has arrived! Installation begins today!
![playground equipment wrapped in plastic](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4806367/large_sHzZT-I5yy4Qpq6W-csWew.png)
![site for playground equipment](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4806368/large_AyppbtvZ8vW_McWtsU7BRQ.png)
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Real-world learning provides students with an unparalleled opportunity for growth, discovery and practical application of knowledge. It is a bridge between the classroom and the world beyond. Through hands-on projects, community partnerships, internships and more, our students develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of their passions.
Learn more about how the Ray-Pec LEAD Center helps prepare students for the future: raypec.org/o/lead
![photo explaining the different options that students have at the LEAD Center and a quote from LEAD Center student Nolana that reads "this has been a great addition to my high school experience... hands-on learning has been life-changing"](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4786646/large_E8iB_SDQrB3QfMh5bVdiiA.png)
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Online registration is now open for the 2023-2024 school year!
Check your email for a message from the school district with instructions to complete the registration forms and submit proof of residency online.
Most families can complete the required registration forms online. This means that you will not need to attend an in-person registration event.
Read more about online registration here: https://www.raypec.org/o/rpsd/page/online-registration
![Online registration is now open for the 2023-2024 school year](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4792883/large_4G4I9sWTQOULxF2ETt2jbw.png)
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Prop S Update!
The walls of the new Performing Arts Center will consist of 112 precast panels ranging from 26 to 55 feet tall.
The larger panels are close to 60,000 pounds each.
![Walls of PAC](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4786909/large_W4cEX2xC6AMZU4SCcm7XMg.jpeg)
![Walls of PAC](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4786911/large_2fhcqa6nJR8x2x1lUF2Ing.jpeg)
![Walls of PAC](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4786914/large_YXpfNz8p7kgh2PPIdbUX7A.jpeg)
![Walls of PAC](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4786916/large_7Ij2YgldMs6kWW8FUi9mpg.jpeg)
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The LEAD Center is hosting RP Camp Innovation this week where elementary school students are learning about 3D printing, robotics, green screen technology and are given the opportunity to use the Maker Space area.
![student learn about green screen technology](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4785576/large_njgN2LtVaSW_KXCSaIZVuA.jpeg)
![student collect arts supplies from boxes](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4785577/large_I_lAc06mhMnEfkoUhvzlvw.jpeg)
![students receive art instruction from a teacer](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4785578/large_klI9RawUGgRoKzLvR_n8hw.jpeg)
![two students operate a robot](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4785579/large_yzc2Ck94XrhNmrGyJDv9TA.jpeg)
![two students work together with robots](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4785580/large_M_Ab0VCIwa9hsM6bPPc0Qg.jpeg)
![high school robotics team teaches elementary students how to solder](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4785582/large_OGl1vZ6QsjXrLmqC7RFanw.jpeg)
![student works with robotics materials](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4785583/large_CpkzV_3PyqePl9PrJADXuw.jpeg)
![student works with Legos](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4785584/large_40kqNE8bFJZ3RMTu4SZGyg.jpeg)
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Concrete and asphalt repair is taking place District wide in preparation for the start of the 2023-2024 school year. (This is the sidewalk in front of Ray-Pec South Middle School)
![Sidewalk work at South Middle School](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4784272/large_15QMjZ408LXQJyHxoQUHiQ.jpeg)
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Camp Innovation is underway! This is the first weeklong summer camp experience for students in grades 3-5 at the LEAD Center in Raymore.
Tammy Novak and Amanda Kilgore are leading the half-day camps for elementary students with a focus on Creativity, Collaboration, Communication, and Choice.
![Students at Camp Innovation](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4783076/large_a1EMwWA7rhBD6EkcR4RIiw.jpeg)
![Students at Camp Innovation](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4783077/large_q1O4lJ9UzxEYnwbBY6qyIQ.jpeg)
![Students at Camp Innovation](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4783078/large_aih_kR3JTNAS8veThHtMbA.jpeg)
![Students at Camp Innovation](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4783079/large_dkeWosVO8XIhGcFF_ujM0A.jpeg)
![Students at Camp Innovation](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4783081/large_cPllmWM3rNru2N2XUAe5dA.jpeg)
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Congratulations to the Ray-Pec High School students who attended the Missouri Boys and Girls State program for 2023 at Lindenwood University!
Boys State participants were: Jaxon Inmon, Patrick Martin, and Hayden Scammacca.
Girls State participants were: Emma Browning, Audrey Mitchell, and Katrina Tilawen.
Thanks to local organizations for sponsoring our students to be able to attend!
![Patrick Martin](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4772494/large_MdwnB5oZ6n9gtKO8ZIgZVw.jpeg)
![Hayden Scammacca, Jaxon Inmon, Emma Browning, and Audrey Mitchell](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4772495/large_7Yqn8r0Hd0gAHiwa5DlXTw.jpeg)
![Katrina Tilawen, Emma Browning, and Audrey Mitchell](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4772496/large_jlTxarayfJrJptN3XnCBAg.jpeg)
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Hey, Panthers! Some Ray-Pec athletic camps are taking place in July and August!
Check here for information about baseball, cross country, football, soccer, softball, volleyball, and orchestra camps: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1gUsUEA-lZpsREfMtPdhhujQFRcljDmTAAh2KbBun4ls/edit?usp=sharing
![Collage of sporting equipment](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4762081/large_uXdX00eacq955s--GaTd2w.png)
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Pictures from last week's Summer School classes for middle & high school students! Including: Latin Cuisine class making fried plantains; Health students showing impacts of tobacco; staff enjoying a refreshing treat; students making paper mache fruit in art class; and a human inchworm competition in P.E.
![Fried Plantains](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4752676/large_KWHNDE_9zdKdAxJ_u3FTzw.jpeg)
![Refreshing Treat](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4752678/large__fjUAN_F5nGWJ7kVxeIz7A.jpeg)
![Paper Mache](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4752679/large_-jrFfsuu1JMUshUG5rwxTQ.jpeg)
![Effects of Tobacco](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4752680/large_Etg5c2UjyshmTPhFJKhOSw.jpeg)
![Inch Worm](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4752681/large_F07VRTqd8OwIUwGn804BgQ.jpeg)
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You are invited to the 2023 Summer School Student Showcase. High School students will share how their team used design thinking to respond to a content-related question. The showcase is open from 10 a.m. to noon, Thursday, June 29, at Ray-Pec South Middle School.
![Flyer explaining dates and times for Summer School Student Showcase](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4746602/large_ewnPKeZkSc3kXONqZ8Fu5Q.png)
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The School Board on June 22 recognized employees who helped make sure the graduation ceremony for the Ray-Pec High School Class of 2023 was a success. It rained for hours on Friday, May 19. Although it appeared that the rain would stop before the ceremony, there was some anxiety about the conditions. Ray-Pec High School proceeded with graduation at 7 p.m., and due to the hard work of many people, the bleachers and chairs were dry and ready for visitors. Armed with towels and leaf blowers, a large group of staff and administrators worked to prepare the venue for the ceremony. From left: School Board Member Bill Lowe, Joe Borgmeyer, Cint Bowman, and Nikki Bowman. Not pictured: Jorge Arvayo, Bob Cantrell, Josh Dawe, Raymond Fann, and Justin McClain.
![Building and Grounds](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/live_feed_image/image/4744333/large_RyYkk9eJ0d8_rpUXwPi1-w.jpeg)