$2 million grant to help add 300+ new seats at metro area charter schools

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - A $2 million grant is expected to help add more than 300 new seats at the elementary, middle and high school levels at a metro area charter school.

Guadalupe Centers Charter Schools leaders have announced that they have been awarded $2 million through the Expanding Opportunities: Missouri Charter School Program. The funds are part of a larger $35.5 million federal Charter School Program - State Entity grant.

istered by The Opportunity Trust, Guadalupe Centers said the funds are meant to bolster the development and expansion of quality charter public schools across the state. The grant will the relocation and expansion of the current High School to create more than 130 new enrollment seats.

School officials noted that an additional 180 seats are also expected to be added at the elementary and middle school levels. The money will help furnish and equip a newly acquired high school building to enable enhancements in college and career programming.

“Every student deserves access to an education that prepares them for life beyond high school,” said Dr. Alicia Miguel, Chief of Schools at GCCS. “This grant helps us fulfill that promise by ensuring our students have the spaces, resources, and technology to match the quality instruction and wraparound services our families have come to expect.”

Leaders indicated that the funds are a direct response to continued demand within the community as GCCS consistently maintains full enrollment.

“Because we are tied to Guadalupe Centers Inc., our students don’t just get a strong academic foundation—they get that helps them thrive inside and outside of the classroom,” added Dr. Miguel. “It’s one of the reasons our graduation rate is over 92%.”

Guadalupe Centers said it stands out with its deep connection to the Latino community in the metro. Founded by the nation’s longest continuously operating Latino-serving organization, GCCS students and families benefit from a range of wraparound services, including mental health , bilingual resources and more.

“To our family, Guadalupe Centers Charter School is so much more than just a school - it’s a second home, a safe haven, and a source of light in our lives,” said parent Josie Sembler. “It’s where my children feel truly seen, valued, and uplifted. Through every classroom, every teacher, and every moment, they’ve grown not only in knowledge but in confidence, culture, and character. Guadalupe Centers has nurtured their voice, inspired their dreams, and helped them stand proudly in who they are. As a parent, there is no greater peace than knowing your child is surrounded by people who care deeply and believe in them. This community has filled our hearts with gratitude, pride, and hope, and for that, we will always be thankful.”

For more information about the Expanding Opportunities: Missouri Charter School Program, click HERE.

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