KCPS-Neighborhood • PK-6
James Elementary
Our Mission
James Elementary students 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
School Details
Tuition
Demographics
Feeder Schools
12%
Receive Special Ed Services
64%
English Language Learners
Specialized Programs
Electives
- Orchestra
- Visual Arts
- Vocal Music
Sports Programs
Clubs & Activities
- Student Government
Social Services
- BackSnack Program
- Dental Services
- Interpreters
- Learning Support Specialists
- School Breakfast
- School Lunch
- School Nurse
- Uniform Closet
- Vision Services
Family Engagement
- Evening Family Events
- Field Trip Chaperone
- Parent-Teacher Conferences
- Schoolwide Volunteers
Application Details
Although many schools have application deadlines, most continue to accept applications for available seats on an ongoing basis.
How to Apply
Enroll online on the KCPS website.
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.
Enroll at James
Apply: http://www.enrollkc.org
Enrollment Requirements
- Completed application
- Birth Certificate
- Current Immunization Record or Religious Exemption Statement
- Most recent report card/transcript (not required for kindergarten applicants)
Public schools also require:
- Proof of Address (also called “Proof of Residency”)
- Parent or guardian photo ID
Standardized Test Results
English
* Indicates data has been suppressed due to a small student sample.
Math
* Indicates data has been suppressed due to a small student sample.
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.
Please note that private schools are not required to participate in these exams.
In 2024, the average English score in Missouri was 43%; the average Math score was 41.1%, source
Attendance Rate 90/90
60%
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 2024, 78.2% of Missouri students were in attendance at least 90% of the time, source.
Third Grade Reading Scores
0%
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 2024, the average 3rd grade reading score in Missouri was 41.6%, source
Student Growth
English Language Arts
On Track
This data determines if individual students, compared to their peers, are making achievement gains over time in English Language Arts.
There are four categories possible: Emerging, Approaching, On-Track and Target.
Mathematics
On Track
This data determines if individual students, compared to their peers, are making achievement gains over time in Mathematics.
There are four categories possible: Emerging, Approaching, On-Track and Target.
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!