Community Bank of Raymore Launches 18th Annual “Stuff the Bus” School Supply Drive
Community Bank of Raymore is proud to launch its 18th Annual “Stuff the Bus” School Supply Drive, a community-wide effort dedicated to providing local students with the school supplies they need for a successful start to the school year. This year’s collection will run from July 27 - August 10.
Through the generosity of community members, businesses, and organizations, last year’s drive raised more than $6,000 in monetary donations and filled Community Bank lobbies with school supplies. At the end of the drive, bank employees volunteered their time after hours to sort supplies and pack backpacks, providing school supplies to more than 600 students across the Raymore-Peculiar, Cass Midway, and Harrisonville School Districts.
New in 2026, even more local restaurants will host fundraising nights, giving community members a chance to support the school supply drive while enjoying a meal with family and friends. The Raymore Police Department and South Metro Fire District will face off against the Belton Police Department and Belton Fire Department in a friendly challenge to collect the most school supplies for area students. These partnerships reflect a community-wide commitment to helping every child have the resources needed to succeed in the classroom.
Donations of new school supplies and monetary contributions will be accepted at all Community Bank locations during regular lobby hours:
801 W. Foxwood Drive, Raymore, MO
300 C Highway, Peculiar, MO
1503 N. Highway 291, Harrisonville, MO
Lobby hours are 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday - Friday, and 9:00 - to noon on Saturday. Community members may also support the drive by purchasing items through the bank's Amazon Wishlist, with donations shipped directly to the bank.
Collected supplies will benefit students and families within the Raymore-Peculiar, Cass Midway, and Harrisonville School Districts. While all school supplies are appreciated, some of the most needed items include:
Backpacks for all ages
Non-Bluetooth headphones (not earbuds)
Hardcover three-ring binders
Zippered binders
Sharpies
Dry erase markers
Folders in a variety of colors, with and without brads
"One of the most inspiring aspects of Stuff the Bus is seeing our community come together year after year to support local students" said Shauna Stephenson, SVP of Community Bank of Raymore. "The addition of our restaurant partners and the friendly competition between Raymore and Belton's police and fire departments demonstrates the incredible generosity and community spirit that make this program successful. Together, we are helping students start the school year with confidence and the tools they need to succeed."
For nearly two decades, “Stuff the Bus” has demonstrated the power of community collaboration and generosity. Community Bank is grateful for the continued support of community members, businesses, schools, and first responders who make this initiative possible. Together, these efforts help ensure local students begin the school year equipped, confident, and ready to learn.
For more information about “Stuff the Bus” School Supply Drive, please call 816-322-2100 or follow the bank on Facebook for up-to-date events and activities.
Community Bank of Raymore has proudly served Cass County and the surrounding communities for more than 47 years. As a locally owned community bank, Community Bank is committed to strengthening the communities it serves through building lasting relationships, volunteerism, and community involvement.



Summer Reading Program Freebies - Simplistically Living
Keep kids reading and earning all summer long! Prizes Include free books, Panda Express, Bundt cakes and more! See the website article for more information.

Book It! Program - Pizza Hut
Enrollment for the “BOOK IT!” Program opened May 1 for families with children in Pre-K - 6th grade. A fun and rewarding way to keep kids reading all summer long. Download the BOOK IT! App, and set monthly reading goals.
Students who meet their monthly goal can claim a FREE Personal Pan Pizza!
Learn more and register on the website

Cass County Dental Clinic – Now Accepting Adult Patients
The Cass County Dental Clinic is now accepting adult patients, meaning both children and adults insured by Medicaid can receive care at the clinic. Summer is a great time for families to schedule dental visits and stay on top of their oral health needs!
Visit their website.

Free Summer Lunches for Students
Families looking for extra support this summer can turn to Holy Spirit Catholic Church. With their Free Sack Lunch program, students can receive nutritious meals at no cost throughout the summer months.
Lunches available Monday - Friday until August 24, at Lakewood Terrace Apartments in Belton, Memorial Park in Raymore, and Waters Tru-Value Hardware in Peculiar.

Now Hiring: First Student Bus Drivers
Looking for a rewarding career? First Student is hiring drivers, offering competitive pay rates. Sign-on bonus, Benefits, as well as non-driving positions available. Make a difference in the lives of students while joining a team committed to safe and reliable transportation every day.
Apply today on the website.

Kids and Families Emergency Preparedness Night
Join Raymore Emergency Management Director Tim Baldwin and other members of City staff along with American Red Cross to learn how children can build an emergency supply kit, what to do in severe weather, and more.
Will be held at Centerview, (227 Municipal Circle) in Raymore on Thursday, August 13 at 6 p.m.

School Supply Assistance/Back to School Bash Registration
The Ray-Pec Public School Foundation is once again hosting its Back-to-School Bash to help families prepare for the upcoming school year.
Families needing assistance with school supplies are encouraged to sign up here
Will be held Saturday, August 15 from 11:00 - 1:00 P.M. at the Raymore-Peculiar Academy.

2026 Football Registration - Cass County Junior Athletic Association
The Cass County Junior Athletic Association (CCJAA) is offering tackle (grades 2-7) and flag football (grades K-8) opportunities for students! Equipment and jersey provided.
Register today on the website

Join Ray-Pec Special Olympics Bocce Ball
We're excited to launch our newest Special Olympics sport—Bocce Ball! Practices began Saturday, July 18, and will be held every following Sunday. More information coming soon!
Sign up here

Become a Unified Partner with Ray-Pec Special Olympics
Be a unified partner with Ray-Pec Special Olympics! Unified partners are teammates and mentors without intellectual disabilities who practice and compete together with athletes. No experience needed, open to all students grades 3-12.
Sign up here

Panther Pride Marching Band Fundraiser - Football Program Advertisements
Businesses and families can support the Panther Pride Marching Band by purchasing an advertisement in the 2026 fall football program to promote a business, or recognize a senior. All advertisements and their payment are due to Jennifer Scrivener by Friday, August 14. View here for pricing and more information.

Reagan, a senior in the CJ/CSI program and Co-Captain of her class, exemplifies the kind of leadership, initiative, and community-minded spirit we strive to cultivate in every student. From summer prep work to mentoring peers, her dedication is making a lasting impact both in and beyond the classroom.
This recognition reflects more than just one student's success—it highlights how our schools are empowering students to grow as leaders and difference-makers in their communities.

Dr. Slagle advocated for public education, amplifying the voices of students and educators, and pushing for policies that strengthen schools and expand opportunity for all. 🌟🏫

They were joined by four outstanding student leaders—Nate Gibbs & Amy Robinson (SLT) and Maddox Martel & Paige Swopes (Student Senate)—to learn new ways to build a stronger, more positive culture at Ray-Pec High School. 🐾
The Renaissance movement is all about creating a school where every student and "staffulty" feels seen, heard, and loved. Emily, Heidi, and the students are bringing back new ideas and fresh energy to help make RPHS a place where everyone belongs—and maybe even make Mondays something to look forward to. 💫




















