A History of Kansas City's Woodland School: Century of Evolution for a Historic Landmark

Abstract

The Northeast community always took pride in and supported Woodland. Despair descended and times were difficult as the district was confronted by its ugly segregation past. Woodland did not escape the turmoil, but community support remained strong. When Woodland reopened as an early childhood center, followed by the Global Academy, the community celebrated a bright future for the beloved school. As it always has, the community remains involved in Woodland and hopeful for its relevance in the future. My project explores the history of Kansas City Public School’s Woodland School. From its beginnings, I attempt to give the reader a sense of how important this school was to the Northeast community. I try to give the reader a sense of the despair felt in the community, ending with the closure of Woodland. I try to share the joy with the reopening of Woodland. In addition to archival records, I collected oral histories from people associated with Woodland to give voice to their experiences. I leave this project with a great sense of gratitude that the citizens of the Northeast refused to let this school die. I hope the reader feels the same.