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James Elementary is a K-6 neighborhood school and is part of Kansas City Public Schools. As a neighborhood school, most students walk to school but some are bussed in from the surrounding neighborhood. -
Dr. Mary Bachkora or “Dr. Mary” to her students and staff is principal here. She is working to build a school where kids recognize and support each other and set goals for their own success. -
Before and After School care are free at James Elementary and provided by LINC. Here LINC workers wait for students to be dismissed for the day. (LINC stands for Local Investment Commission which is a community organization with an integrated focus on academics and family support, health and social services, and youth and community development. They supervise the before and after school program for all Kansas City Public Schools with a goal of improving student learning, building stronger families, and fostering healthier communities.) -
When students get to school they are greeted in English or Spanish by front office staff. Ms. Murillo is always ready with a smile. -
Students at James Elementary are taught to use words wisely. This bulletin board reminds them of the rules that govern conversation in school. This acronym is also referenced by teachers when correcting student off task conversations. -
James Elementary uses Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports (PBIS) to encourage positive behavior in their students. In some classrooms, teachers use charts like these to track students’ behavior in class and help them stay on track. -
Students wrote encouraging messages to one another for MAP testing. It is another opportunity to practice positive behavior at school. -
These kindergarteners just got in from recess and are waiting for their teacher to walk them downstairs. This is Ms. Chambers. She is one of two kindergarten teachers. Students at James Elementary wear uniforms. These include khaki pants with white, light blue, or navy tops. -
Students hang their bookbags and coats on hooks like these inside of every classroom. It helps them to stay organized. -
In upper grades, students are given a desk and a place to keep their papers. They are responsible for keeping their belongings together and due dates in mind. Support teachers are available to assist students who are still mastering English. They help with language learning and content understanding at every grade level. -
At the end of the day, students take their belongings with them like these 6th graders who are in the school library for a class. -
In music class students practice with a new instrument. They do sing alongs as well. -
In gym class, these students get to choose what they will play; each student puts a tally mark under their favorite sport. Today a version of dodgeball won the vote. 80% of the students at James Elementary speak more than one language. In elective classes like this one, students have the opportunity to bond no matter the language. -
In class, these first graders work together to read non-fiction books. Some students at James struggle with reading and math skills, technology is a tool teachers use to help students catch up to grade level. (Notice the computer cart in the classroom.) They practice math and reading basics and use technology for classroom instruction as well. -
Upper elementary students generally have more seat time and individualized work than students in the younger grades. Here students work on a logic puzzle given to them by their teacher. The puzzles help them to think critically and use math skills. -
These second graders work on solving math problems with their teacher. Students move throughout the day from their desks or tables to the floor for group instruction. These students are waiting for their teacher to finish so that they can solve the problem in front of their peers. -
Here third grade students are working on an end of the year project after testing for the day. These collaborative groups are another opportunity for students to practice academic, social, and language skills. -
Math literacy is a big part of James Elementary. Stairways like this one are covered with math facts. -
At recess, students can gather in groups and play games. These girls are playing with cups. -
Kids also play on the playground equipment. -
The cafeteria is colorful. Tables are decorated with the school name and other designs. As a part of Kansas City Public Schools, breakfast and lunch are free every day to every child. Students eat all meals in the school cafeteria. -
Students show off their work on bulletin boards outside of classrooms. Here, students wrote about character traits and created characters to match. -
Outside of this class, students have written their goals for the year. They are hung over the door where students can see them every time they come into class. -
Parents have a place too at James Elementary. The Parent Resource Room has books, learning videos, and other training materials that parents can check out any time. -
The school building is very clean, well-maintained and has a dedicated auditorium. Students use the auditorium for special occasions and all school assemblies. -
Everyone at James is recognized for their positive efforts. Here upper elementary students designed a banner thanking kindergarteners for supporting them. -
This bulletin board hangs outside of the principal’s office and contains thank you notes written to her by students.
James Elementary (K-6)
James Elementary
School Leader(s)
David Williams, Principal- NO Tuition
- Availability for 2021-2022
- Transportation provided
- Before and After-Care Available
Quick Facts
Our Mission
James Elementary student will attend school regularly, believe in their academic abilities, work hard to achieve individual goals and be prepared academically, socially, emotionally and intellectually to make positive changes as members of their diverse community by being responsible, respectful and safe.
Points of Pride
- Active participation in recycling and environmental programs.
- Rich, culturally-diverse community and climate.
- Involved, supportive and encouraging families.
School Hours
- School Hours: 8:20 am - 3:20 pm
- Before Care Hours Start: 7:00 am
- After Care Hours End: 6:00 pm
School Details
- Year Established: Information not shared with SMKCS
- Total Enrollment: 270
- Affiliation: KCPS-Neighborhood
- School Type: KCPS-Neighborhood
Feeder Schools
- Middle School: Northeast Middle School
- High School: Northeast High School
Tuition
- Tuition: NO Tuition
Our Demographics
Receive Special Ed Services
English Language Learners
Programs and Features
Specialized Programs
- N/A
Arts Programs
- Vocal Music
Sports Programs
- N/A
Clubs + Activities
- Student Government
Family Engagement
- Evening Family Events
- Field Trip Chaperone
- Parent-Teacher Conferences
- Schoolwide Volunteers
Application Process
Application Details
Although many schools have application deadlines, most continue to accept applications for available seats on an ongoing basis.
- Enrollment Open: Ongoing. More information is available here.
- Kindergarten Cutoff: July 31
- Residence: Students live within James' boundaries in the North Zone in the KCPS boundaries.
How to Apply
Enroll online on the KCPS website
Applications for signature and neighborhood schools open on December 14, 2020
The initial round of applications deadline is February 15, 2021
The week of March 1st, initial seats will be offered, and parents will need to complete the registration form.
You can still apply after the deadline, seats will be offered at a later date.
Submit applications online or in person at the Board of Education building, 2901 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO 64109. Applications CANNOT be submitted at schools.
Student Performance
Standardized Test Results
English
Math
Why It Matters
Missouri Assessment Program (MAP) tests are scored (or graded) according to four achievement levels: Below Basic, Basic, Proficient, and Advanced. The number shown here is the percentage of students who scored Proficient or Advanced. When comparing scores between years, please remember that the test Missouri gives has changed several times.
Please note that private schools are not required to participate in these exams.
In 2019, the average English score in Missouri was 48.7%; the average Math score was 41.9%, source
Attendance Rate 90/90
Why It Matters
Schools strive to have at least 90% of their students achieve a 90% attendance rate because kids learn best when they’re in school.
In 2019, 87.3% of Missouri students were in attendance at least 90% of the time, source.
Third Grade Reading Scores
Why It Matters
Third grade is the important time when kids switch from learning to read to reading to learn and is an important benchmark for a student’s educational development.
In 2019, the average 3rd grade reading score in Missouri was 48.7%, source
Student Growth
English Language Arts
On Track
Why It Matters
This data determines if individual students, compared to their peers, are making achievement gains over time in English Language Arts.
There are three categories possible: Floor (minimum), On Track (doing just fine), and Exceeding (outperforming their peers).
Mathematics
Exceeding
Why It Matters
This data determines if individual students, compared to their peers, are making achievement gains over time in Mathematics.
There are three categories possible: Floor (minimum), On Track (doing just fine), and Exceeding (outperforming their peers).
Parent Perspective
Phyllis Hernandez, James Elementary Parent
My daughter is currently enrolled in the 5th grade at James Elementary. This is her fifth year attending the school. We chose this school because it has an exceptional staff that is dedicated to the success of every student. Teachers work with each student in identifying their strengths and weaknesses. The teachers realize that not all students learn the same way. They have a system which allows teachers and their aids to work with students in small groups. This system allows students that are struggling in a particular subject to get the extra support they may need.
I also enjoy the positive attitude the staff has towards their students. Every morning the students and staff meet in the auditorium for morning announcements. Dr. Mary Bachkora, the principal, does an amazing job at encouraging the students to stay positive. Their motto “If I believe, and I work hard, I will achieve” can be heard echoing throughout the hallway every morning! The students love the enthusiasm!
I’m very impressed with how well the staff work together. Ms. Nayeli Murillo is the bi-lingual secretary. She does a wonderful job at maintaining a very busy and sometimes hectic front office. She’s a wonderful liaison between the parents and staff.
I strongly believe that the teachers work so well because they have a strong leader. With a hard working and dedicated principal such as Dr. Bachkora, it produces a dedicated staff that enjoy their jobs. Dr. Bachkora works hard to make sure students are meeting attendance goals, increased test scores and positive behaviors.
The school has a large gym, library, computer lab, art room, and well maintained classrooms.
The school provides volunteer opportunities for parents. They also encourage and welcome parent involvement during their monthly SAC (School Advisory Council) meetings.
James Elementary provides a LINC after school program. The LINC program allows students to participate in Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and Chess club. The LINC staff work with the students in creating craft projects, science experiments, Lego projects, sports, and dance groups. Every year the LINC staff put together a Cinco de Mayo celebration. The staff spends several months teaching students Folklorico dances which the students perform at the festival.
James Elementary is rich in diversity. It’s located in the Historic Northeast community where there are many different cultures and backgrounds represented at the school. It provides a fun and a safe environment. I highly recommend this school. My daughter loves James Elementary and their superb staff!