Clifford Watkins

Brookside Charter School

Brookside Charter School opened its doors in 1956 as Brookside Day School, as an educational alternative in the Kansas City area. The focus has been: low student/teacher ratio, children are recognized for their individuality, a feeling of community, and a multicultural environment. It was developed to enable all families the right to choose educational options that are not limited to those who have the financial ability to pay for an expensive private education. Brookside Day School operated under these beliefs until 2002. In 2002, Brookside Day School became Brookside Charter School, and has experienced many changes, including: becoming a Leader in Me school (based on Stephen Covey's 7Habits of Highly Effective People), several changes in locations, and a shift in student demographics. We have grown from 137 students (2002-03) to 737 students (2019-20); Free/Reduced Lunch from 35.7% (2002-03) to 99% (2019); and minority enrollment from 44.53% (2002-03) to 97% (2019-20). Brookside Charter does not offer transportation; therefore, staff is able to communicate with parents on a daily basis, which keeps our community strong. When a child enrolls in Pre-K or Kindergarten, we recognize the importance of keeping that student in our school all the way through 8th grade. Brookside Charter began as a neighborhood school, but now, any child who lives within the Kansas City Public School (KCPS) boundaries can attend here. Our parents' personal lives may cause them to move around, but as long as they stay within KCPS boundaries, their child can continue school here. Keeping a child at the same school may be more expensive for a traditional district, but as far as value for the child, it's priceless.