TECH or treat! Are you a digitally inclined professional considering new possibilities? There's a job opening in the USD 265 Technology Department, and we want YOU! To learn more, feel free to scan the QR code here or contact the Tech. Dept. at 316-794-4011.
“Know what sparks the light in you. Then use that light to illuminate the world.” — Oprah Winfrey
Congratulations to Melanie Highfill, a student at Oak Street Elementary School, one of the four October 2023 Attitude Award winners for Goddard Public Schools! The Attitude Awards recognize individuals that go above and beyond with a positive attitude that will help shape the future of our district. To nominate a Goddard Public Schools student, staff member, volunteer, or supporter for the District Attitude Award, please utilize the form here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfkaNfHU4_lF4JX0Qdp802yp44pgR4eic1O5vtDxpH_MnrFrQ/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0
Over the last two years, I have watched Melanie come alongside our Mixed Abilities students and not only be a peer model but be a friend. She shows patience, kindness and care for these students. If there has been a child in the last 16 years of my employment that I have seen exhibit the traits of a leader and kindness and compassion towards classmates that cannot give anything in return, it is Melanie.
Carol Edmiston, Oak Street Nutrition Services
Melanie is an outstanding peer leader in the classroom. She goes above and beyond to help another student in the classroom. She promotes inclusivity and does everything she can to make sure that every student feels welcome and loved in our classroom. She has mentioned to me that she wants to one day become a teacher so she can help students and is inspired by the bond she shares with that student.
Ms. Burr, Oak Street Teacher
Melanie brings a positive attitude to school each day; greeting me and others with a happy good morning. She always stops and checks in and tells me about her day. Each interaction I have with her is enjoyable and entertaining.
Ms. Gerstner, Oak Street Librarian
Melanie ensures that Mixed Abilities students are included with peers. She leads by example by greeting all Mixed Abilities students first thing in the morning and throughout the day. Melanie is always eager to help and has such a positive attitude. Melanie is kind, sweet, caring, helpful, loving, thoughtful and so much more. She brings out the best in all of us!
Renee Richards, Oak Street Mixed Abilities Teacher
“In every day, there are 1,440 minutes. That means we have 1,440 daily opportunities to make a positive impact.” — Les Brown
Congratulations to Officer Shannon Heath, part of the USD 265 Police Department, one of the four October 2023 Attitude Award winners for Goddard Public Schools! The Attitude Awards recognize individuals that go above and beyond with a positive attitude that will help continue to shape the future of our students and staff. To nominate a Goddard Public Schools student, staff member, volunteer, or supporter for the District Attitude Award, please utilize the form here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfkaNfHU4_lF4JX0Qdp802yp44pgR4eic1O5vtDxpH_MnrFrQ/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0
On behalf of the Apollo staff and students, I would like to nominate Officer Shannon for the District Attitude Award. Since the first day in her position, Officer Shannon has been committed to building strong relationships with staff and students by being a proactive presence within the building, greeting students during arrival most mornings, reading to students in the classroom, helping run centers/rotations, and she even spent an entire day with students during our Hero Day on Monday, September 11. I have no doubt that our students feel more safe and comfortable with her in the school. It is clear that Officer Shannon is focused on serving the students within our building and district in a proactive and positive manner. Her attitude and willingness to go above and beyond to make positive connections is recognized and greatly appreciated by many. I firmly believe that Officer Shannon is one-of-a-kind. We are very fortunate to have her in the district.
Conner Christensen
Apollo Elementary School
Principal
"Happiness is not by chance but by choice." — Jim Rohn
Congratulations to Brian Gee, Principal of Goddard Academy, Goddard Virtual School & Successful Dreams Goddard, one of the four October 2023 Attitude Award winners for Goddard Public Schools! The Attitude Awards recognize individuals that go above and beyond with a positive attitude that will help continue to shape the future of our students and staff. To nominate a Goddard Public Schools student, staff member, volunteer, or supporter for the District Attitude Award, please utilize the form here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfkaNfHU4_lF4JX0Qdp802yp44pgR4eic1O5vtDxpH_MnrFrQ/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0
Mr. Gee has taken Goddard Academy to new heights. The culture of Goddard Academy has become so positive in the five years while he has been the Principal. The students are proud of their school. Mr. Gee encourages the students to be respectful and successful in and out of school. Any new student will experience Mr. Gee introduce himself and let them know that he's there for them if they need anything. He greets all students every morning as they walk into the building.
The perception of a Goddard Academy student has also changed. Through some of the ideas Mr. Gee has implemented, such as Student Council, Neighbors United and Career Days, Goddard community members are seeing firsthand what fantastic students we have at Goddard Academy. The staff at Goddard Academy, Successful Dreams Goddard and Goddard Virtual School appreciate his willingness to always be there for us. It's not always easy managing three different entities, but he handles it daily. Goddard Academy, Successful Dreams Goddard and Goddard Virtual School would like to recognize Mr. Gee for his quality leadership.
Tami Maynard
Registrar
Goddard Academy
“Try to be a rainbow in someone else’s cloud.” — Maya Angelou
Congratulations to Bailey Carter, part of the USD 265 Maintenance team, one of the four October 2023 Attitude Award winners for Goddard Public Schools! The Attitude Awards recognize individuals that go above and beyond with a positive attitude that will helps continue to shape the future of our students and staff. To nominate a Goddard Public Schools student, staff member, volunteer, or supporter for the District Attitude Award, please utilize the form here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfkaNfHU4_lF4JX0Qdp802yp44pgR4eic1O5vtDxpH_MnrFrQ/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0
Bailey constantly has a positive attitude around the district. She is quick to respond and fix any issues that come up, she can be seen on a lawn mower, or other equipment helping out in other areas around. She wishes others 'good morning' on the radio and is always so happy to be here to serve. Bailey is truly an asset to the district and brings a positive, caring, kind, and helpful attitude every day. Recently when a student situation arose outside of the building during the school day, Bailey was helpful to staff in keeping the student safe and out of harm's way.
Capt. Carrie Phelps
USD 265 Police Department
Bailey has such a great attitude and energy that's contagious! Just to be around her, you feel better. She would do anything for anyone, and do so just because it's the right thing to do. She has seen great heartache and still is a beacon of light and kindness to all she passes. There are so many things that make her such an incredible person!
Matthew Huffman
USD 265 Maintenance
Mark your calendars for the USD 265 Teaching Job Fair! Come see us between 6 - 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 26th, at Eisenhower Middle School to learn about the amazing teaching opportunities right here at Goddard Public Schools!
Be sure to wave hello to the USD 265 Transportation Department during tomorrow's Goddard Fall Festival parade!
Happy Coaches Day! Big shout out to each and every coach that dedicates time, energy and effort instilling character into the students of Goddard Public Schools. Whether it's academics or athletics, coaches have the opportunity to create such a strong, positive impact every day. Thank you to all of the coaches that help provide diverse and advanced opportunities for all students to compete on all levels! Your commitment helps set us apart from the rest and is greatly appreciated.
Congratulations to Shae Enegren, First Grade Teacher at Oak Street Elementary School, for being named as the District’s elementary school educator nominee to compete for the Kansas Horizon Award! The Kansas Horizon Award Program, sponsored by the Kansas State Department of Education, recognizes exemplary first-year teachers who perform in a way that distinguishes them as outstanding.
“Every second I spend with a student is precious,” shared Enegren. “I have discovered that learning is so much more than just academic curriculum. I believe in order for a child to learn, they need to feel safe, connected and loved. This starts with meeting each child where they are, and guiding them in the direction they need to go.”
Thank you, Mrs. Enegren, for representing our #265Family by making a difference in the lives of your students, and for all the work you put in every day to make the entire community here at Goddard Public Schools truly excellent!
Congratulations to Elizabeth (Lizzie) Toribio, Special Education Teacher at Eisenhower Middle School, for being named as the District’s middle school educator nominee to compete for the Kansas Horizon Award! The Kansas Horizon Award Program, sponsored by the Kansas State Department of Education, recognizes exemplary first-year teachers who perform in a way that distinguishes them as outstanding.
“Students need to feel loved and valued in order to learn from you,” shared Toribio. “Celebrate the little things. As an educator, there are many hard days. Between the students, parents, and the workload, it can feel overwhelming. When you stop looking at what you aren’t accomplishing and start looking for the things that you are, falling in love with teaching is inevitable. Everything is worth celebrating.”
Thank you, Ms. Toribio, for representing our #265Family in such a meaningful way, and for all the work you put in every day to make the students, staff and community here at Goddard Public Schools truly excellent!
Happy Custodial Staff Appreciation Day! The Maintenance Department at USD 265 start each day with a can-do attitude, and take on the monumental task of making sure each building is in good working order. Your hard work day in and day out keeps our facilities exceptional, and we are so lucky to have each and every one of you serving Goddard Public Schools. THANK YOU, today and every day, for all that you do!!
Happy Teaching Assistants Day! Thank you to ALL of the paraprofessionals and supplemental staff that help the students of USD 265 achieve success each and every day! It's through your efforts that our school community cultivates pride, growth and excellence for all.
Are you looking to turn a new leaf, help your community and join a fun team?! Come join an organization that feels like family, and have fun with a flexible schedule! You'll play a vital role in the lives of our students each school day. $19/hour, PAID TRAINING, and even a SIGN-ON BONUS! This is a great position for parents, grandparents, retirees or anyone that would like to serve their community while earning a competitive wage! To learn more and apply today, call 316-794-4291 or visit: https://www.applitrack.com/goddardusd/onlineapp/.
Check out this video to see a day in the life of a USD 265 bus driver!
https://youtu.be/iVlPYgQmdNk
Today, Mon. Sept. 25th, Eisenhower High School hosted over 20 different STUCO (Student Council) groups, representing high schools and middle schools from the surrounding area. This was one of eight STUCO Regional Conferences, held by Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA), throughout the state.
Approximately 600 students heard from keynote speaker Ben Grannis, with Eyes Up Ride - an awareness movement that encourages people to text (and drive) less and live more by "looking at the beauty around us, listening to the people we love, and living life to the fullest. " Thank you to all students, staff and speakers involved! Opportunities like this help pave the path for our future leaders.
Hitting mailboxes soon is the inaugural edition of ROAR on 54, a 24-page, full-color magazine that will feature over 35 stories and 100 images, highlighting the achievements of students, the contributions of staff, and the innovative programs supported by the Goddard Education Foundation (GEF).
This publication, brought to you by the GEF, will be mailed to every household and business inside the USD 265 district boundaries. We need your help to get this, and future editions, into the hands of grandparents, alumni, retired educators, businesses, and other supporters that may live outside of the district boundaries.
Please sign up using the link below before the end of the day on Monday, September 25th, to receive a FREE copy of the ROAR on 54 magazine.
https://forms.gle/BY6ReTh6p3iS46yb8
Thank you to the Goddard Public Schools community for your continued support and partnership!
Happy I.T. Professional Day! The Technology Department at USD 265 is a high-caliber team that doesn't shy away from any task, and creates an atmosphere of fun and flexibility. We appreciate all that you do to keep our systems running smoothly from day to day! #265Pride #265Family
Are you looking for a career opportunity within an established organization? Come join a team that feels like family, and have fun with a flexible schedule! You'll play a vital role in the lives of our students each school day. This is a great position for parents, grandparents, retirees or anyone that would like to serve their community while earning a competitive wage! To learn more and apply today, call 316-794-4291 or scan the QR code here.
Check out this video for a quick glimpse into what it means to be a USD 265 bus driver! https://youtu.be/HCahzLD0uyw
What makes a HERO?
A question that Officer Shannon Heath, the newest member of the Goddard USD 265 Police Department, had the opportunity to visit with students at Apollo Elementary School about on Patriot Day, September 11, 2023.
Officer Shannon Heath described the experience, "Hero Dad, by Melinda Hardin, is a story of a military dad through the eyes of their child. Reading it puts into perspective that we have true heroes in our families and in our community. A true hero may not have the ability to fly, but they have the ability to selflessly serve their country and community. To sacrifice, put on a uniform, and go to battle day in and day out to protect the ones we love. Whether it's our military or first responders, we want our students to understand we are here to serve and protect, to be that person who is a safe and reliable individual they can come to in their time of need."
After the book was read, Officer Heath fielded several questions from students about her duties, the equipment and uniform she wears, and what makes a hero. She asked the class if they had anyone in their family serving in the military, and that's when David Daniel Alderete, proudly stood up, raising his hand to let her know about his dad, Master Sergeant David Anthony Alderete, of the United States Air Force, who had recently returned from a six-month deployment this summer. When David was asked who his hero was and what a hero looks like, he stated, "My dad is my hero. He went across the world to protect me and my friends. I am proud of him. He is close to retirement and will be getting a new job soon so we can spend more time together."
In celebration of Patriot Day, our #265Family wants to thank and recognize ALL military and first responders. Thank you for your service!
On Friday, Sept. 1st, Goddard High School CTE and Drama students had the opportunity to participate in a simulated disaster drill at Eisenhower National Airport. This FAA-mandated exercise only takes place once every three years and helps increase preparedness for real crisis situations, such as a plane crash. Crave Beauty Academy was on-site to apply faux wound makeup, and the Wichita Airport Authority organized all emergency responders both in the field and within the terminal, including: Airport Police & Fire Division, Airport Incident Family Support Team, FAA Airport Traffic Control Tower Team, Wichita Fire Department, Sedgwick County Fire Department, Sedgwick County EMS, Sedgwick County Emergency Management & Emergency Communications Teams, Healthcare Coalition Partners of Kansas, Wesley Medical Center, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the American Red Cross.
View the whole story here: https://www.goddardusd.com/article/1238843. The mission of Goddard Public Schools is to educate all students for lifelong success. By educating the whole child, this includes providing college and career readiness opportunities. The CTE Pathway Programs incorporated within USD 265 provide these possibilities for students. Thank you to all involved for creating such an amazing experience and opportunity for our students!
As a reminder, all schools and district offices will be closed on Monday, Sept. 4th in honor of Labor Day. We hope everyone has a safe time celebrating this holiday weekend!
