
Eisenhower High School and Goddard High School Orchestra students will be joining forces, along with GHS Band students, to audition for the Kansas All-State Orchestra in Salina this Saturday. This year sets a record number of students trying out at the state level. From the entire #265Family, GOOD LUCK!


“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” - Benjamin Franklin
Congratulations to Heather Wood, 2nd Grade Teacher at Clark Davidson Elementary School, for receiving the District Attitude Award from the USD 265 Board of Education!
Wood was nominated by Shanae Riggs, fellow CDS Teacher, who commented, “Heather consistently goes above and beyond, not just for her students but for the entire school community. She organizes incredible activities for both students and staff, fostering a positive and engaging environment. Each week, she sends motivating and uplifting emails, always recognizing the successes of others. Heather exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding educator.”
CDS Principal Matt Cavanaugh said, “Heather Wood exudes a positivity that meshes perfectly with her natural social abilities. She is welcoming to all stakeholders who pass through her classroom and is a catalyst for fun activities for students and staff. Mrs. Wood has been the brains behind activities like our school-wide election activities this year, the 2nd grade Thanksgiving feast that also includes the help of parents and social gatherings that bring staff together during and outside of school hours. Heather Wood maintains a busy schedule developing these extracurricular events but does it all with enthusiasm, good humor, and a positive attitude.”


“Teaching is the one profession that creates all other professions.” - Unknown
Congratulations to Elizabeth (“Liz”) Ewing, 3rd Grade Teacher at Apollo Elementary School, for receiving the District Attitude Award from the USD 265 Board of Education!
Ewing was nominated by Apollo Principal Connor Christensen, who shared, “Mrs. Ewing’s impact at Apollo Elementary in just a short time has been nothing short of extraordinary. Her positive attitude, tireless effort, and genuine love for her students shines through in everything she does. The creativity and thoughtfulness she brings to creating unique and engaging learning experiences have enriched all of our third-grade classrooms and inspired her students (and many others) to thrive. Her dedication to her students' growth and success reflects the heart of what makes an exceptional educator, and we are so grateful to have her as part of our Apollo family. Mrs. Ewing is truly making a difference and is a great example of the Attitude that makes our School and District so great.”
Christina Davenport, another Apollo educator, supported Principal Christensen’s nomination adding, “Liz is a wonderful teammate at Apollo. She goes out of her way to check on everyone- adults and students alike. She is always trying new things to ensure that her students have what they need and feel cared for. Liz is also on several district committees to ensure that all students-not just the ones at Apollo have access to a great education.”


Goddard Public Schools has an administrative opening available, and we want YOU to be a part of our #265Family! Come join a community that promotes positive growth and professional development, with competitive salary and benefits. Goddard Public Schools is a family, and when you're here, you'll feel right at home. As one of the top 20 largest school districts in the state, immediately adjacent to Wichita, you can enjoy both the amenities of a suburban community, with a small town feel. Goddard is growing, and growth brings resources that enhance our mission to educate ALL students for lifelong success!
To learn more, contact Nick Grummert at ngrummert@goddardusd.com, call 316-794-4000 today, or visit: https://www.applitrack.com/goddardusd/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=Administration.


Join us TONIGHT for a Board of Education Meet & Greet event, in honor of School Board Appreciation Month! This come-and-go event is open to the public and will take place from 6:15 - 6:50 p.m. tonight (Monday, Jan. 13th, 2025) in the BOE Room at the Central Administration Center (201 S. Main St. Goddard, KS 67052).
Connect with your local school community and meet the volunteers at the core of our #265Family. Whether you have questions, want to connect names to faces, or simply want to learn more about what Goddard Public Schools is all about - come join us tonight!


Did you know that Goddard Public Schools offers a variety of early learning options for families? One is a unique resource called Parents As Teachers, a no-cost parent education and family support program that serves families from pregnancy until their child turns four. PAT-certified parent educators support parents through personal/home visits, parent group connection and playgroups, screenings, supplemental resources, and more! Learn more by visiting www.goddardusd.com/page/parents-as-teachers-pat today!


Goddard Public Schools Staff and Families,
There will be NO SCHOOL on Friday, January 10, 2025, due to severe winter weather and hazardous driving conditions.
Please be safe, and thank you for your continued support.


The Goddard High School Drama Club was recently recognized with the “Helping Hands” grant (from DeVaughn James Injury Lawyers & KWCH Channel 12) for their efforts in collecting food on Halloween. For years, students from both Goddard High School and Eisenhower High School have participated in “Trick-or-Treat So Kids Can Eat,” a nationwide community service initiative where students “trick-or-treat” for canned and non-perishable food items, instead of candy. Contributions are then collectively donated to local food banks or community pantries for those who face food insecurity. KWCH and Devaughn James partnered to present a “Helping Hands” check to the GHS Drama Club for their continued support of this initiative. Check out the full story and video on the KWCH website here: https://www.kwch.com/2025/01/07/goddard-hs-drama-club-earns-helping-hand-trick-or-treat-outreach-effort/.
Thank you to all those involved in this project! The lasting impact of paying it forward is a lesson that can positively influence an entire community, and we couldn’t be more proud of the students and staff dedicated to bringing this to life in our town each year!











Did you know that January is School Board Appreciation Month? Join us for a USD 265 Board of Education Meet & Greet to celebrate! This come-and-go event is open to the public and will take place from 6:15 - 6:50 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 13th, 2025 in the BOE Room at the Central Administration Center (201 S. Main St. Goddard, KS 67052).
Your Goddard Public Schools Board of Education includes: Nicole Hawkins-McWhorter (President), Jenny Simmons (Vice President), Amanda Gish, Jerry Longabaugh, Mark Richards, Ginger Rose, and Ruth Wood. Help us continue to cultivate pride, growth, and excellence within our #265Family!


Is one of your resolutions to stay better connected with your student’s school? Engage with everything happening in Goddard Public Schools easily, and right from the palm of your hand, by downloading the USD 265 mobile app today. You’ll get the latest updates on school events and news, access important resources and schedules, learn more about teachers and staff, and stay attuned to your child(ren)’s learning journey.
Search the Google Play Store or Apple App Store today for “USD 265” or simply click the link below. Let’s strengthen our #265Family together!
https://uqr.to/1jds2


Goddard Public Schools Families,
Goddard Public Schools will not be in school on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, due to ongoing hazardous driving conditions.
City, County, and District crews are working tirelessly to clear roadways, parking lots, and sidewalks, and we offer our deepest appreciation to them for their dedicated efforts. Given the extent of snow/ice in neighborhoods across the District, additional time is needed to ensure a safe return to school.
Thank you for your continued patience and understanding.


We can’t wait to welcome back all the students in our #265Family tomorrow, Tuesday, Jan. 7th, for the first day of the second semester! Drop your favorite pictures in the comments of what made winter break fun for you and your family. Let’s have a great start to the second half of the school year. See you tomorrow!


Help us celebrate School Board Appreciation Month this January by joining us for a USD 265 Board of Education Meet & Greet event!
This come-and-go event is open to the public and will take place from 6:15 - 6:50 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 13th, 2025 in the BOE Room at the Central Administration Center (201 S. Main St. Goddard, KS 67052). Let’s celebrate the pride, growth, and excellence of our #265Family together!


Is it your dream to make a difference in the lives of students every day? Calling all college juniors who seek a rewarding career in education! Mark your calendar for the Goddard Public Schools 2025 Teaching Recruitment Event. This event will take place from 9:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 10th, 2025 at the District Conference Center (201 S. Main St. Goddard, KS 67052). Come see us and learn what being a part of our #265Family is all about!
Sign up here: https://tinyurl.com/4ewuehza.




As we ring in the new year together, it’s important to remember that we’re truly BETTER TOGETHER! In 2025, let’s resolve to continue being the community that shows up for each other and turns pages together. Keeping the spirit of our town strong, lifting each other up, and working together to always keep moving forward. From the entire #265Family, HAPPY NEW YEAR!


Community isn’t just a word - it’s how we show up for each other. And our community continues to do that year after year. From our school traditions, partnerships with community organizations, and engagement with families, our students are able to shine bright because of the strength of our community. This time of year is full of reminders that we’re more than just neighbors; we’re a family. With gratitude in our hearts, warmest wishes from our #265Family to each of you!











Attention aspiring teachers! Take the first step towards a career in educational excellence by visiting the Goddard Public Schools 2025 Teaching Recruitment Event! This event is designed especially for college juniors considering where their teaching careers will start, and will take place from 9:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 10th, 2025 at the District Conference Center (201 S. Main St. Goddard, KS 67052). Join us to learn what being a part of our #265Family is all about!
Sign up here: https://tinyurl.com/4ewuehza.




REMINDER - All schools and district offices will be closed for the next two weeks for winter break: Monday, Dec. 23rd, 2024 - Friday, Jan. 3rd, 2025. Additionally, Monday, Jan. 6th, 2025 will serve as a teacher work day, so there will be no classes. We look forward to welcoming our school communities back on Tuesday, Jan. 7th, 2025. Wishing everyone peace and joy this winter break, from our #265Family to yours!


Are you looking for a gateway into your journey as an educator? Take the first step by visiting the Goddard Public Schools 2025 Teaching Recruitment Event! This event is specifically crafted for college juniors looking to explore the start of their teaching careers, and will take place from 9:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 10th, 2025 at the District Conference Center (201 S. Main St. Goddard, KS 67052). Come join us and learn what being a part of our #265Family is all about!
Sign up here: https://tinyurl.com/4ewuehza.


Did you know that Goddard Public Schools has a STRATEGIC PLAN that outlines the vision and goals for advancing educational excellence for our students, staff, and families? The Strategic Plan outlines core belief statements, our mission, and a breakdown of methods for how to overcome obstacles, advocate loudly, and achieve success. Interested in learning more? Visit the USD 265 website, or simply click the link below!
https://5il.co/1qiy5
