Team

We are a community of educators, employers, and advocates working together to provide equitable experiences through integrated partnerships between students, teachers, and local businesses.

Meet Our Team

Every student should graduate with the tools to pursue their career goals and successfully navigate the rapidly evolving and increasingly complex economic landscape. We are activating a community to ensure that students are able to develop essential skills and understand their professional possibilities. The RWL Team supports districts, schools, and educators in creating opportunities for students to unlock their potential and empowers employers to improve career trajectories.

  1. Bill Nicely

    Educator In Residence

  2. Anna Hennes

    Program Leader

  3. Salvador Ocampo

    Program Leader

  4. Angee Simmons

    Communications & Engagement Program Leader

  5. Dan Tesfay

    Data Strategist

  6. Donna McDaniel

    Educator in Residence

  7. Todd White

    Support Team

RWL Collaborators

These companies have helped shape the RWL initiative, maximizing its impact on individuals, organizations, and our communities.

  1. Aligned
  2. Big Picture Learning
  3. Blue Valley Center for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS)
  4. Getting Smart
  5. Green Works in Kansas City
  6. Junior Achievement of Greater Kansas City
  7. Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce
  8. The Civic Council of Greater Kansas City
  9. KC Common Good
  10. KC Global Design
  11. KC Rising
  12. KC Scholars
  13. KC STEM Alliance
  14. KC Area Development Council
  15. LearnCollab
  16. Mid-America Regional Council
  17. MDRC
  18. Northland CAPS
  19. Prep KC
  20. Pro X
  21. Startland
  22. Young Entrepreneurs Program (YEP) KC

Executive Committee

Comprised of employers and education leaders, our Executive Committee exists to review key resources, ensure equitable access, cultivate support, and advocate for continuous learning and innovation in our community.

CEO Champions Group

As part of the regional Real World Learning initiative our community partner, KC Rising, has recruited a small group of CEOs to help support and champion RWL efforts.

Visit AlignEd's website
Visit The Civic Council of Kansas City's website
Visit KC Chamber's website
Visit Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation's website

Employers

Employers play a central role in RWL by providing experiences that allow students to discover their passion and understand their professional trajectory. There are over 600 employers involved in this work.