Atlanta is one of several new program sites that will be launching this summer. CAN now has eight locations across three states (Kansas and Oklahoma, in addition to Missouri). The program operates exclusively in rural Midwest communities, which are typically underserved by high-quality summer learning programs.

CAN supplements the education students receive during the school year, helping them to build confidence, develop leadership skills, and prevent summer learning loss. Stacie McVey, superintendent of Atlanta C-3 School District, saw the partnership as a great way to engage students. “This four-week July program will offer a unique opportunity for our district and community,” she said. “It is designed to enrich the educational experience of our high-performing junior high students, while also welcoming students from outside our district, including those in homeschool, private, and traditional school settings. We are excited to partner with Compass Academy Network to make this possible and to expand learning in new ways as part of our Hornet Family.”

Debra Humphreys, founder and CEO of Compass Academy Network, called the expansion “a great step forward for the program,” and noted that she looks forward to seeing its positive impact on the community. “These additional locations mean more enrichment opportunities for students, and more paid internships for college students interested in education.”

About the CAN Program

CAN’s mission is to support education in rural communities by providing free summer enrichment programs for middle school students, with continued year-round support, to foster a love of learning, promote intellectual curiosity, develop engaged citizens, create a foundation for academic success, and cultivate a strong moral compass. CAN also provides college students who are aspiring educators with paid internship opportunities working with veteran rural school teachers to create a strengthened network of inspirational rural educators who become leaders in their classrooms and communities.

The entire 4-week Compass Academy Network program is free for eligible students, including all materials, supplies, healthy lunches and snacks, and transportation to and from a central location. Upon completing the program, students also receive a $45 Walmart gift card for school supplies. School districts with 15 or more students who complete the summer session are eligible to receive a CAN Partner Grant of $5,000 for middle school needs.

To qualify, students must have a grade point average equivalent to a “B” average (3.0) or better as well as a recommendation from a current teacher or administrator. Preference is given to students whose families qualify for the Federal Free and Reduced lunch program.

Applications for Compass Academy Network’s summer programs are currently being accepted online. Space is limited, so interested students and families are encouraged to apply soon. For more information, please visit our website at www.compassacademynetwork.org.

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“I am excited to take this step towards reforming our state government to better serve We the People,” stated Baeza. “Missouri’s heart is in its rural communities. It’s in the families who live here, the farmers who work the land, and the small businesses that are the backbone of our economy. I am running to ensure that those voices are heard in Jefferson City,” Baeza said. “We need common-sense leadership that prioritizes our values, respects our way of life, and stands up for the freedoms we hold dear.”

Baeza has a proven record of standing up for Missouri agriculture and improving local infrastructure without raising taxes. His work has been grounded in the principles of rural Missouri values such as fiscal responsibility, personal freedom, and a commitment to strong families and communities. With a small government platform, he is proud of his successful efforts to reduce government waste and keep big government out of the day-to-day lives of Missourians as the current Eastern Commissioner of Pettis County.

“Less government is the best government. I’ve seen firsthand the impacts of government regulations, taxes, and overreach on our farmers, small businesses, and families. It’s time to push back against policies that hurt rural Missouri and stand up for those that have been left behind by the political elite.”

For Baeza, commonsense leadership means championing policies that strengthen the everyday lives of Missouri’s working families. The Baeza campaign is grounded in core conservative values: protecting Constitutional freedoms, defending the sanctity of life, promoting fiscal responsibility, fighting for smaller government, and reducing crime across the state. Through these priorities, Baeza is committed to creating an environment where Missourians can thrive through hard work, personal responsibility, and independence—not reliance on government.

Israel Baeza is the proud husband to Perla, with whom he has two young children. The couple enjoys raising their children in Pettis County and are active members of the Hispanic Baptist Church of Sedalia. He also serves on the board of the Sedalia Area Chamber of Commerce, Sedalia-Pettis County Economic Development, and the University of Missouri Extension Council.

The post Press Release: Conservative Republican Israel Baeza announces candidacy for state representative appeared first on The Missouri Times.

“I am excited to meet with voters across the city to hear their ideas on how to keep Lee’s Summit on the right path to prosperity,” stated Rader. “During my first term on city council, I’ve realized there is so much work that needs to be done at the mayoral level.”

Highlighted in Rader’s announcement video, support for first responders is a top priority for the campaign, alongside improved infrastructure of major highways. With a determined effort involving cooperation with the city’s business and civic leaders, she plans to foster sustainable job growth and responsible economic development in Lee’s Summit. She also aims to bring a vision of inclusion with all facets of public and private entities coming together to strengthen the future of our city.

“We must carefully consider the long term impacts the city government’s decisions have on our citizens. There’s no room for big egos or entitled mindsets in the mayor’s office. Lee’s Summit needs civic-minded, people-oriented leadership that will listen to and respect constituents and work together as a city council to provide quality service to our city.”

Outside of public service, Rader is a proud mother of three and grandmother of four. As an accomplished local Realtor, builder and developer, and owner of The Cynda Sells Real Estate Company, she knows how to navigate the red tape of doing business in the city and hopes to alleviate the struggles families are facing in the current housing market. Additionally, she aims to attract new industry, manufacturing, and Class A business to create jobs which will allow our citizens to really Live, Work and Stay in Lee’s Summit.

The election for mayor will take place in April 2026.

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With a commitment to strengthening education, supporting veterans, and driving economic development, Gudehus is eager to bring his leadership and experience to the Missouri House as a lifelong conservative.The Republican primary is in August 2026.

“I have dedicated my life to service, both in the military and in my community, and I am ready to take that commitment to the state capitol,” said Gudehus. “The people of Northeast Missouri deserve a representative who will work tirelessly to create opportunities, protect our values, and ensure a brighter future for our families.”

A native of Edina, Missouri, Gudehus brings a wealth of experience to his campaign. After graduating from Truman State University with a degree in Business Administration, he went on to earn master’s degrees in Accounting and Educational Leadership. His career includes 21 years of service as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Army, where he specialized in military financial management and leadership roles in both peacetime and combat environments. After retiring as a lieutenant colonel, Gudehus returned home to dedicate himself to his family, his community, and education—serving as a teacher, coach, and administrator in the Knox County R-1 School District. He currently operates a cow/calf ranch on his family farm.

Gudehus’s campaign is built upon three core priorities:

1. Promoting Economic Development: He aims to attract businesses and create economic opportunities in Northeast Missouri by focusing on workforce development, job creation, and housing solutions to empower hardworking families.
2. Supporting Veterans & Law Enforcement: As a veteran himself, Gudehus will fight for full funding of law enforcement and the Missouri Veterans Commission, promoting policies that make Missouri a welcoming home for those who have served to keep us safe.
3. Strengthening Education: Gudehus will work to keep schools safe and ensure they continue to serve as innovative partners in their communities. This is done by advancing policies that encourage multiple pathways to the workforce, as well as by nurturing leadership development and retention tools for high-quality administrators and teachers.

Gudehus will work for all Missourians to ensure the rights and liberties of individuals “shall not be infringed” by the government—no exceptions.

“I swore an oath to defend the Constitution. I take that very seriously and believe that serving in this new capacity can help me continue to fulfill that promise I made all those years ago.”

Beyond his professional achievements, Gudehus is a dedicated member of several community organizations, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4822, the American Legion Post 261, and the Knox County Community Center Board of Directors. He has been married to his wife, Jackie, for 36 years, and they are the proud parents of four daughters and grandparents to two grandchildren.

Gudehus is running as a principled leader who will bring his experience, integrity, and dedication to public service to the Missouri legislature. He looks forward to meeting with voters across the district and discussing how he can address their concerns and represent their core values in the state government.

Missouri House District 4 includes Clark, Knox, Lewis, Schuyler, Scotland, and Shelby counties and part of Adair and Monroe counties.

The post Press Release: Retired Lieutenant Colonel Keith Gudehus announces candidacy for Missouri House appeared first on The Missouri Times.

“I am so honored to receive this certification,” stated Foley. “Hard work pays off: that’s the message I want to resonate with our staff and students here in Lee’s Summit. Working for quality education isn’t about me—it’s about investing in our future.”

As an ardent champion for public education, Foley has consistently prioritized the needs of students, teachers, and the community. She is a strong supporter of literacy programs and early childhood education programs which provide families with the tools they need to support their child’s educational journey.

Foley has also advocated for staff salary increases while maintaining fiscal responsibility and pushed for policy modifications to ensure veteran educators earn credit for all prior years of service. She has travelled to both the state and federal capitols to promote public education funding.

Foley’s dedication to public education is evident in her work. She remains committed to serving the Lee’s Summit R-7 community with integrity, transparency, and a passion for education.

Jennifer Foley is running for re-election to the LSR7 school board on Tuesday, April 8th. For more information, please visit www.jenniferforlsr7.com.

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The 30-second spot, “Stand Up,” is backed by a six-figure buy and is running on TV and digital beginning Friday in Missouri.

See the ad here.

The ad calls on Missouri Republicans to stand up to the trial lawyers and special interests by passing legislation to stop the threat of CCP influence, protect U.S. jobs, and keep our food supply made in America.

The ad follows Special Envoy and PAI Senior Advisor Richard Grenell’s comments this week on the importance of this issue in Missouri. Grenell posted on X: “We must end CCP influence and protect U.S. jobs. The voters are telling politicians in #Missouri (a state that holds a special place for me because I went to college there) to PASS SB14!”

SB14 is legislation currently being considered in Missouri that provides protections for U.S. agricultural manufacturers, which will counter Communist China’s influence over the nation’s food supply.

BACKGROUND:

• Just this week, the Protecting America Initiative unveiled new polling from Trump pollster Tony Fabrizio showing GOP voters expressing concern with lawmakers who would support bills which would “outsource key parts of our food supply to China.” 68% of GOP voters said they’d be less likely to vote for a candidate who would vote that way.

• The Protecting America Initiative recently released a multistate ad calling on Republican state legislators to support President Trump’s agenda by taking action against the urgent threat that Communist China poses to American agriculture.

• Richard Grenell, senior advisor to PAI, outlined the importance of protecting our food supply from China and calling on state legislators to step up to stop this CCP threat in a recent Fox News opinion article.

• PAI hosted President Donald J. Trump in September at a roundtable with Pennsylvania farmers on the need to combat the growing influence of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) on America’s agriculture industry and food supply.

The post Press Release: Anti-CCP Group Launches Six-Figure TV Ad Urging MO Republicans to Fight Back Against Trial Lawyers and Special Interests to Keep Food Supply Made in America appeared first on The Missouri Times.

“I am running to ensure the steadfast conservative leadership we are accustomed to here in Northeast Missouri continues in the future. I look forward to continuing to meet with voters and keeping government accountable to the people,” Graff said.

With deep roots in Northeast Missouri, Graff brings years of experience in government and community service. She currently serves as a member of the Moberly City Council and was recently awarded the “Henry S. Geyer Award” from the Mizzou Alumni Association for her advocacy for higher education. Her husband, Jody, owns a habitat development business for waterfowl throughout North Missouri. Sarah’s background in grassroots leadership will provide a strong voice for the needs of Northeast Missouri families, businesses, and farmers.

Graff is a dedicated community leader, wife, and mother of four. She and her family are members of Timber Lake Christian Church. Graff also chairs the Board of Directors for the General Omar Bradley Memorial, Library, and Museum, was President of the Moberly Chamber of Commerce, and is a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Her priorities include protecting the sanctity of life, the Second Amendment, and continuing to push Trump’s America First agenda in the state capitol.

Senate District 18 includes the counties of Adair, Audrain, Clark, Knox, Lewis, Macon, Marion, Monroe, Putnam, Ralls, Randolph, Schuyler, Scotland, and Shelby.

The post Press Release: Sarah Graff announces candidacy to replace term-limited Sen. Cindy O’Laughlin appeared first on The Missouri Times.

“As a lifelong Missourian, I believe our state needs strong, conservative leadership that prioritizes lower taxes, job growth, and personal freedoms,” said Casteel. “I am running for State Senate to be a voice for blue collar workers, small businesses, and the traditional values that make Missouri great.”

Casteel, the founder of Gutter Pros, has been a tireless advocate for economic growth, parental rights in education, and Second Amendment protections. His platform priorities include:

• Lowering Taxes & Cutting Wasteful Spending – Casteel is committed to reducing the tax burden on Missouri families and small businesses while ensuring that government remains efficient and accountable.

• Defending Conservative Values – A strong advocate for faith, family, and freedom, he will stand against government overreach and policies that threaten Missouri’s way of life.

• Supporting Law Enforcement & Public Safety – Casteel will continue to ensure law enforcement is fully funded, strengthen laws against violent crime and illegal immigration, and support first responders.

• Protecting Parental Rights in Education – He believes parents should have a say in their children’s education and will push for policies that remove political propaganda in the classroom, while increasing teacher pay to recruit and retain quality educators.

• Standing Up for the Second Amendment – As a strong supporter of the right to bear arms, Casteel will fight against any attempts to infringe on gun ownership and the right to self-defense.

Casteel’s campaign is focusing on grassroots engagement, meeting directly with voters across the district to listen to their concerns and advocate for policies that reflect their values.

“Jefferson County deserves a leader who will fight for ‘We the People’ — our freedoms, wallets, and the conservative values that define our way of life. That’s my mission for the state senate.”

The post Press Release: David Casteel announces state senate campaign to replace outgoing Sen. Coleman appeared first on The Missouri Times.

As a State Representative, Pollitt has been a steadfast advocate for education, farmers, and the protection of constitutional freedoms. His legislative efforts include sponsoring open enrollment for Missouri school districts, empowering K-12 students with greater autonomy and flexibility in their education.

In addition to his legislative duties, Pollitt is the owner and operator of Rocker P. Cattle Company LLC as a lifelong farmer. As a member of the Missouri Farm Bureau, he understands the challenges faced by local farmers and is dedicated to supporting family farms and businesses.

Pollitt’s campaign is built upon unwavering, commonsense conservative principles. He is committed to protecting life at all stages, standing with local law enforcement, and defending the right to bear arms. A staunch opponent of “woke” ideology infiltrating Missouri’s classrooms, Pollitt pledges to uphold core Missouri values and ensure that education remains focused on excellence and integrity—not identity politics.

“I am running for the Missouri State Senate to continue serving the people of our great state,” said Pollitt. “Together, we the people can preserve our constitutional freedoms, support our agricultural heritage, and ensure a brighter future for all Missourians.”

Brad Pollitt resides in Sedalia with his wife, Danette. They have three children: Kevin, Whitney, and Brianna, and are active members of Maplewood Church in Sedalia.

For more information about Brad Pollitt and his campaign, please visit www.pollittformo.com.

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Redd works for Commerce Bank and is a commercial pilot. In addition, he is a small business owner of Palmyra Storage and is involved in his family’s farming operation.

“We have a lot of positive things happening in Marion County and I would like to keep that momentum going,” said Redd. “Taxpayers want government to run like a business; I am committed to ensuring that our county’s finances and infrastructure are in working order as a good steward of taxpayer dollars. Ultimately, those funds belong to we the people and elected officials should have long-range vision for how to use those funds in an appropriate way.”

Redd has served as the past president of the Hannibal Rotary Club and has been actively involved with several local organizations. Additionally, Redd has held board positions with the Hannibal Area Chamber of Commerce, Hannibal Regional Foundation, Palmyra School Board, Northeast Missouri Economic Development Council, Hannibal Regional Healthcare System Center for Applied Medical Research and Beth Haven Nursing Home.

“I am excited about President Trump’s America First efforts and what that could mean for manufacturing and jobs here in Northeast Missouri,” said Redd. “I will fight for continued job growth in our communities.”

The father of two adult children, Redd has been married to Kindsey Redd for 24 years. As a born-again Christian, Redd puts his faith first in his personal life.

“We need to continue to focus on fiscal responsibility in the courthouse and meet the county’s most basic needs – good roads and bridges. Together, we can work together to ensure our entire county has utilities, roads and other infrastructure to meet growing needs. This helps keep our families, farms and small businesses vibrant for years to come.”

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