KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) – Central Middle School received a $2,000 grant on Wednesday to support students with a passion for science, with Kansas City Chiefs cheerleaders helping present the gift.
The grant honors the memory of former Chiefs cheerleader Krystal Anderson, who died in March 2024 due to complications from childbirth at age 40.
The Hunt Family Foundation provided $1,000 in remembrance of Anderson. The Kansas City Public Schools Education Foundation matched that gift, bringing the total to $2,000 for Central Middle School’s iSpark program.
Supporting STEM careers
The iSpark program is designed to inspire students interested in STEM careers through hands-on, project-based learning.
“Their dreams are unlimited when it comes to STEM,” said Assistant Principal Kathyrene Hayes.
Anderson shared that passion for science and developed a monitoring system for post-partum hemorrhaging that is used around the world.
“She loved her career and her impact that she made on the community, on young people, and specifically the love of STEM. Being able to just chase dreams. I think that’s what makes this special for all of us,” said Stephanie Judah, senior director of entertainment teams for the Kansas City Chiefs.
Hayes said the award represents more than financial support.
“Yeah, it’s bigger than a check,” Hayes said. “It will inspire these students to go on and excel.”
Chiefs cheerleader Ari, Anderson’s former teammate, said Anderson’s spirit lives through her passion.
“Dreams are gonna give you that why, and they’re gonna give you that inspiration to pass that on to the next person that is coming up and chasing their dreams,” she said.
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