Annual Report-2023-24 - Flipbook - Page 17
interested in art careers had the opportunity to explore murals and street art, learning directly from guides about
the ar琀椀sts and their techniques. “Our goal is to take learning beyond the classroom and make it tangible for
students,” said Jones. “Seeing these murals up close inspired the students and gave them a new perspec琀椀ve on
ar琀椀s琀椀c expression and career opportuni琀椀es in the arts.”
Perhaps one of the most impac琀昀ul aspects of Urban Hikes KC is its ability to reveal hidden gems in students’
neighborhoods. Meyer recounted a hike where students visited a local 昀椀re sta琀椀on, climbed in and out of 昀椀re
trucks, and learned about 昀椀re昀椀gh琀椀ng career paths, which expanded their career horizons. “These experiences
remind students that they are the future workforce, and it bene昀椀ts the en琀椀re community to support their
explora琀椀on of career op琀椀ons,” Meyer added.
“
These hikes are though琀昀ully connected to what students are learning in their classes.
-Eli Jones, Diploma+ Coordinator, Central Middle School
Overall, the partnership between Central and Carl B. Bruce Middle Schools and Urban Hikes KC is
bridging the gap between educa琀椀on and real-world experiences. It allows students to discover their
community in new ways, fostering a deeper understanding of their roots and sparking curiosity about
their futures. Through this collabora琀椀on, students are not only learning about their history—they are also
inspired to explore the possibili琀椀es ahead.
KCKPS PARTNER HIGHLIGHT
Urban Hikes KC o昀昀ers 4-5 mile hikes that blend Kansas City’s history with modern
sights, all while providing a workout. Hikers will enjoy blu昀昀 views, street art, historic
and contemporary buildings, and explore areas above and below major highways,
gaining insight into the city’s revival.
Founder Lisa Peña, a Kansas City na琀椀ve and Sumner Academy alumna, is dedicated
to giving back to the community. She and her team are passionate and engaging, making
Urban Hikes a great way for students to discover hidden gems in their own city.
A CLOSER LOOK
Meet Urban Hike KC
Founder Lisa Peña
Carl Bruce Students
Tour The Crossroads.
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