Skip To Main Content

Program

The Global Academy provides direct and meaningful instruction in English language development, English language arts, mathematics, social-emotional learning and general topics related to culture shock and the transition to life and school in Kansas City. We offer a half-day program to elementary age students. The students will ride the bus to their home school as all other students. Students in grades 4-6 will eat breakfast and board the bus to the Global Academy. They will return prior to lunch. Students in grades K-3 will spend the morning at their home school and come to the Global Academy after lunch. We ensure that all Global Academy students are able to participate in the Arts, physical education and recess at their home schools.

Mission: The Global Academy utilizes best practices and resources to develop both critical thinkers and productive citizens. We create a sense of community by fostering multilingualism, acknowledging cultural assets and celebrating diversity.

Vision: The Global Academy is a safe, welcoming environment as students and their families transition to school and life in Kansas City.

TEACHERS

Gina Baird

Gina Baird - teacher at Global Academy

Hi! I am Gina Baird, a teacher at the Global Academy.  I have been teaching for 18 years.  I taught kindergarten for 11 years before transitioning into teaching English Language Learners 7 years ago. I am grateful to be a part of the Global Academy team and for the opportunity to teach and welcome our new students and their families to Kansas City!

Hello! My name is Beth Jaeger. This is my seventh year of teaching and working in KCPS. Previously, I taught first and third grade. I am honored to be teaching at Global Academy. My experience of living in Jordan for three months game me a small glimpse of what each child experiences when they come here. My passion is to create a safe space for students to learn and thrive. My goal is for each student to use their native language and English to continue building knowledge.

Beth Jaeger

Beth Jaeger - teacher at the Global Academy

Jenny Rathbun

Jenny Rathbun - teacher at the Global Academy

My name is Jenny Rathbun and this is my twelfth year of teaching and my first year at Global Academy. I have a Master’s degree in inclusive education and am currently working on my Master’s degree in Teaching English as an Additional Language. Born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri, I am passionate about this city and all the students that find themselves here.

Rosie is a first-generation college graduate who moved to the United States at the age of 13 without knowing a word of English. She faced many challenges but never gave up on her dream of getting an education. She is now a successful educator and advocate for migrant families.

Rosie began her career in education as an advocate for migrant families in the Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools. She then transitioned into the district's Truancy Program, which she rebranded as Attend to Achieve (A2A). In this role, she worked to limit barriers and implement necessary interventions to help students succeed and attend school regularly. She finished her time with KCKPS as Coordinator of Student Services.

Rosie is currently the Newcomer/Migrant Clinician for the Kansas City Public Schools. She is also involved in a number of other organizations, including Heartland 180 and Jenga Klub. She is a proud Jayhawk and is passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Rosie

Rosie - a teacher at the Global Academy

Rachel Lowry

Rachel Lowry - a teacher of Global Academy

My name is Rachel Lowry and I am the nurse at Global Academy. I have a BSN and bachelor's degree in Child and Family Development. I have been a nurse since 2007 and with Kansas City Public Schools since 2017. My daily work involves not only addressing my students' medical needs but also providing socio-emotional support and fostering a safe and inclusive environment. I am proud to be a part of Global Academy where every child's health and happiness are at the heart of what I do.