Partnering with Local Businesses Is a Model for Success in Kansas City
DERRICK THOMAS ACADEMY
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI
Principal Leah Marktisko
Established in 2002
650 students, serving grades K–8
Students: 91% African American; 4 % Asian/Pacific;
1% Caucasian; 4% Hispanic
Teachers: 29% African American; 65% Caucasian;
3% Hispanic; 3% Other
ABOUT THE ACADEMY
Derrick Thomas Academy (DTA) was created with the vision of the great Kansas City Chiefs linebacker, Derrick Thomas. Derrick dedicated much of his time, energy, and resources to affect a positive change in the lives of children, particularly those young people faced with challenging circumstances. Derrick lived with a mission of “sacking” or eradicating illiteracy for inner city children and constantly worked to accomplish that mission through his philanthropic work with the Third and Long Foundation.
DTA primarily serves at risk, inner-city African-American students who face challenges at home, struggle in the typical public school environment, and/or are in dire need of a strong quality education. DTA provides a safe place for these children to learn, achieve, and feel good about themselves. DTA students will be prepared to think critically and creatively, to solve problems, and to make wise choices that enhance opportunities for success and advancement.
PARTNERING WITH THE COMMUNITY
Partnerships Help Build a State-of-the-Art Sports Field
DTA has worked with the Kansas City Chiefs, Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) of Kansas City, and Edison to secure a grant that has funded the creation of a state-of-the-art synthetic turf football field. Other sponsors, including Kansas City Chiefs, Costco, and Johnson Control have donated money for uniforms for the football team, drum line, and cheerleading and pep squads.
Now DTA has Friday night flag football games like no other in the country. To participate in the games, students have to maintain a certain grade point average and display positive leadership behavior. If their achievement level falls, so do their chances of being a student athlete at Derrick Thomas Academy.
PARTNERING WITH LOCAL BUSINESS
DTA has formed a strong bond with Costco, the membership warehouse giant, receiving donations in the form of backpacks and school supplies. The company not only makes numerous donations to DTA, but also sends employees to the school to tutor third graders. During MAP testing, Costco invited first and second graders to its store to ensure a quiet atmosphere for third and fourth graders taking the test. The younger students received a tour of the store, learned about Costco’s history, and were treated to lunch prepared by Costco staff. Recently, Costco organized a book drive to help DTA fortify its library, encouraging store patrons to bring in new and used books when they come in to shop.