USD 265 Goddard Public Schools -

Considering a future in education? Mark your calendars for the USD 265 Teaching Job Fair! Come see us between 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 29th, at Eisenhower Middle School to learn about the amazing teaching opportunities right here in our #265Family!

On behalf of the entire #265Family, THANK YOU to each and every coach who helps USD 265 students achieve success, athletically and academically, throughout the year! Coaches dedicate countless hours guiding those in their charge towards progress, both in and out of the classroom. Their unwavering support helps make a difference in the lives of our athletes and scholars, and creates a positive impact in every part of our community. Happy Coaches Day to all those who dedicate their drive and knowledge to create valuable contributions to their local community, and to this #265Family, every day!

Congratulations to Tyler Kohlman, Second Grade Teacher at Amelia Earhart Elementary School, one of the two 2025 Kansas Horizon Award District Nominees for Goddard Public Schools. This award recognizes outstanding first-year teachers who have made a significant impact on their students' lives and school communities. Teachers like Kohlman, who is in his second year of teaching, humanize what it means to be an exceptional educator. See for yourself - keep reading! “Trust your circle and surround yourself with as many different teachers and staff members,” shared Kohlman. “Every adult in your building is there to support the best interest so of you and your students. Engaging with them will help you add valuable tolls to your toolbox, in this ever-changing profession.” Kohlman was nominated with the full support of his peers and the Amelia Earhart school community, including Alex Phillips, First Grade Teacher at Earhart, who said “When you enter his classroom, it is clear that there is mutual respect, trust, and understanding reflected from Mr. Kohlman and his students.” Marney Hay, Principal at Earhart, shared her endorsement of Kohlman for this award as well. “First and foremost, he builds a positive relationship with each student who enters his classroom,” shared Hay. “He greets each student every day at the door, taking a pulse of whether they are ready for the day or need some extra support to be successful. His students trust him because he earns it. The connections he makes inspire a lifelong love of learning in his students. I am looking forward to watching him grow in his career.” The positive impact that Kohlman embodies in his classroom extends well past the walls of Amelia Earhart, directly to our #265Family. Lindsey Clark, Earhart Parent, shared about her experience having Kohlman as her daughter’s teacher. “She would come home talking every day about all the fun things they learned about and what she was looking forward to the next day,” shared Clark. “As a parent, you always hope for a teacher that makes learning fun for your child.” Elizabeth Jenkins, another Earhart Parent who endorsed Kohlman for this award, commented, “Beyond his impressive teaching skills, Mr. Kohlman fosters a sense of community and belonging among students. He encourages collaboration and respect, teaching our children not just academic skills but also important values that will serve them throughout their lives.” Jenkins continued to say, “I have seen my child flourish under Mr. Kohlman’s guidance, gaining confidence and a passion for knowledge that I believe will alst a lifetime. He has a gift for connecting with students, making learning both fun and impactful.” Congratulations to Tyler Kohlman, and thank you for elevating excellence in education and representing our #265Family with pride, positivity, and enthusiasm!

Congratulations to Hannah Reynolds, Science Teacher at Eisenhower High School, and one of the two 2025 Kansas Horizon Award Nominees representing Goddard Public Schools. This statewide award recognizes outstanding first-year teachers who have made a significant impact on their students' lives and school communities. Educators like Reynolds, who is in her second year of teaching, personify what it means to be excellent in education. Don’t just take our word for it - keep reading! “I am intentional about building relationships with students,” shared Reynolds. “Each student has a unique story, which gives me a roadmap for connecting the lessons to their individual journey, making them relatable to their individual needs. My ‘why’ drives my instructional strategies. When my students know that I care about them…I know they are learning for lifelong success!” Reynolds’ nomination was with the full support of her EHS peers and school community, including Shelby Allee, EHS Science Teacher, who said “She creates a warm and welcoming environment that allows each student to feel safe and valued. She goes above and beyond…students are always so excited to come to her class and I believe ethos is because of her ability to build meaningful relationships.” Travis Rink, EHS Assistant Principal & Activities Director, shared, “Hannah has a natural ability to break down difficult concepts and make them understandable for her students. She continuously develops creative and effective lessons, challenging herself and her students to explore new ways of learning.” Todd Hague, EHS Principal, commented, “What distinguishes Hannah is her ability to inspire, connect, and empower students in her classes every day. When you meet Hannah, the first thing you’ll notice is her infectious smile and energy. She creates a classroom environment where all students feel welcome, respected, and empowered to share their voices.” Her positive impact extends past the walls of EHS, directly to parents and students in our #265Family. Braylie Murrey, EHS Senior, shared about her experience in Reynolds’ classroom, “Ms. Reynolds is one of the reasons I want to pursue a degree in STEM. (She) always encouraged me to never give up and to keep reaching towards my goals. Countless times, she has reminded me that I am capable of anything I set my mind to.” Christine Geisler, EHS Parent, shared about the positivity of Reynolds’ classroom environment, “When they first place your child in your arms, it is like they are handing you the whole world. You pray that everyone who enters their life from that moment on will care for and impart wisdom upon them. Teachers like Ms. Reynolds are the answers to those prayers.” Another EHS Senior, Bailey Stevens, recognized the excellent work of Reynolds, “Ms. Reynolds always makes the classroom an exciting and safe place. I walk into class knowing that she will make it fun but also very educational.” Congratulations to Hannah Reynolds, and thank you for elevating excellence in education and representing our #265Family with pride, positivity, and enthusiasm!

Today is Custodian Appreciation Day, and we’d like to take this opportunity to say THANK YOU to each and every member of the USD 265-Facilities & Maintenance team that serves our buildings, keeping them clean and safe for students, staff, and visitors throughout the year. Because of the dedicated efforts of this driven team, Goddard Public School facilities are safe, secure, caring, and connected learning environment for students. Head Building Engineers often work behind the scenes, but their work is what keeps this District running smoothly each and every day! If you see any of these hard-working people this week, please stop and thank them for all they do. We are lucky to have such phenomenal, beloved cleaning crews! Today and every day your efforts are noticed and appreciated. Thanks for everything you do to help produce pride, growth, and excellence for our #265Family! USD 265-Eisenhower High School Kim Devoll (Head), Ennis Mayshack, Milan Jenkins, Jacob Busbee, Matt Huffman, and a crew of one EHS student that is employed by USD 265 part-time to help the cleaning crew in the evenings! USD 265-Goddard High School Chris Kinney (Head), Mabel Pfannenstiel, Doris Asuncion, Perry King, Patrick Ybarra, Olivia Craig and a crew of four GHS students that are employed by USD 265 part-time to help the cleaning crew in the evenings! USD 265-Goddard Academy & USD 265-Goddard Virtual School Andrew Wallace USD 265-Eisenhower Middle School Ken Krom (Head), Alanna King Purcell, and Adam Whitmore USD 265-Goddard Middle School Ron March (Head), Chris Statton, Deb Cline, and Rick Dewitt USD 265-Challenger Intermediate School Del Dreyer (Head), Felix Silva, Anthony Ediger, Tom Nixon, and Christina Richards USD 265-Discovery Intermediate School Justin Lieurance (Head), Elivira De La Rosa, and Audrey Mclemore USD 265-Apollo Elementary Elizabeth Velazquez (Head), Albert Ramey, and Marlaena Pham USD 265-Amelia Earhart Elementary Mike Beavers (Head), Mary Verbeck,, and Alex Neuway-White USD 265-Clark Davidson Elementary Kelly Mueller (Head), Mark Lett, and Levi Mann USD 265-Explorer Elementary Sandra Carbajal (Head), Andy Rodriguez, and Jayden Devoll USD 265-Oak Street Elementary Fawna Hahn (Head), Deanna Potterton, and Dane Edmiston Central Office of USD 265 - Goddard Public Schools Vanessa Stockemer Floating Building Engineer Tristan Holtry

"Excellence in education is when we do everything we can to make sure they become everything they can." - Carol Ann Tomlinson October is Principal Appreciation Month, and in honor of that, we'd like to extend a huge THANK YOU to the world-class leaders that guide each of our schools! Principals are more than just administrators; they are mentors and advocates to staff and students alike. They arrive early, leave late, answer questions, provide support and resources, and are the biggest champions for our #265Family. Goddard is truly fortunate to have such committed and compassionate principals and assistant principals leading our school communities. Your positive energy and efforts do not go unnoticed, and we are grateful for everything you do to educate all students for lifelong success! #GoddardPublicSchools #USD265 #265Family #265Pride

Happy Teaching Assistants' Day! Every classroom should have a positive, balanced atmosphere and that starts with support, collaboration, and care. In part, those are provided by teaching assistants - such as paraprofessionals, student aides, or even specialized staff (such as physical therapists, speech language pathologists, or occupational therapists). Everyone chips in to make our classrooms amazing places to learn each and every day! THANK YOU to our #265Family of educators, for all that you do to educate each student for lifelong success!

You’ve heard from our team directly - come be a part of our #265Family today! Our USD 265 Transportation team works diligently each and every day to ensure the safe delivery of students all across the district. By becoming a school bus driver, you can earn a $500 bonus, $20-per-hour wage, and paid training to obtain your Commercial Driving License (CDL). Learn more about the difference you can make! Ready to start the conversation? Follow the link below to directly connect with our team of dedicated transportation professionals, and take the next step toward creating a positive impact each and every day! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfIGgOCjTqCLapI3gK6Q_zsci6sBDCjnq4KWp5xfOLXKIjciA/viewform?usp=sf_link Learn more about what it's like to be a part of this team by watching this video: https://youtu.be/UeYq2S0TxHA

Are you tuned in and ready to tackle another fun and busy fall season? Be sure to download the USD 265 mobile app to keep up on the latest and greatest here in Goddard, America. This handy and helpful little resource has everything you need, all in the palm of your hand! From upcoming events and sports schedules, and even what’s on the menu for lunch at school tomorrow. Be sure to turn ON notifications, AND select your child(ren)’s school, in order to be first on the list for announcements and reminders from your school community! Make sure you have the correct schools selected for this school year, and have your mobile app updated to stay in the know. Visit your Apple App Store or Google Play Store today to download! Android/Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.apptegy.goddardschoolsks&hl=en_US&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2Xd3HjfHyu3bzwMqcSYvKovQAAeyNrm3HoOnVbAZdKwS_a4mAEynukFhM_aem_puiAgaolsiQxkAGfJlpROg Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/usd-265-goddard-public-schools/id6448068713

Interested in learning more about post-secondary opportunities for your student?! ALL members of our #265Family are welcome to join from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 17th, 2024 in the foyer at Eisenhower High School for a post-secondary success fair that highlights and showcases all the options for high school students following graduation. There will be two-year schools, trade schools, traditional four-year colleges and universities, as well as military and other career opportunities available providing resources and information for students and families. Since this event takes place during parent-teacher conferences, and is open to all students, parents are encouraged to attend alongside their child(ren) to engage and learn more about these exciting post-secondary opportunities. Questions? Call 316-794-4155 to learn more today!

Are you ready for a change and want to play a part in positively impacting your community today? Hit the road with our world-class USD 265 Transportation team and become part of the #265Family in a way that provides a connected and caring environment for staff and students. By becoming a school bus driver, you can earn a $500 bonus, $20-per-hour wage, and paid training to obtain your Commercial Driving License (CDL). Start the conversation by following the link below to directly connect with our amazing team of transportation professionals, and start making a difference in our #265Family today! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfIGgOCjTqCLapI3gK6Q_zsci6sBDCjnq4KWp5xfOLXKIjciA/viewform?usp=sf_link

Join us in celebrating I.T. Professionals Day today!! Our USD 265 Technology Department goes above and beyond each and every day to provide world-class technology resources and to quickly problem solve issues that may arise to support our students and staff. Some recent staff comments include, "Our Tech team provides great communication, I appreciate all the support!" and "Thank you for always being so helpful! You all are the best!" Their dedication brings to life innovative solutions that help enrich the educational experience of our #265Family across the District, all with a fun and flexible attitude. THANK YOU, Tech Team, for everything you do to keep our network and schools running smoothly!

The annual Daddy Daughter Dance, sponsored by the Goddard High School Kansas Association for Youth (KAY) Club, is right around the corner! USD 265 fathers and Pre-K - 6th Grade daughters are invited for dancing, crafts, and snacks. This event will take place within an “Enchanted Forest” from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 22nd, at Goddard High School. Tickets are $12 per dad-and-daughter duo ($5 for each additional daughter in attendance). Click the link below to purchase your tickets today! https://gofan.co/event/1695759?schoolid=KS25135

Please help us give a warm welcome to the Goddard Hall of Fame - Class of 2024! The Goddard Hall of Fame was established in 2018 to celebrate, honor and recognize the service, success, and achievements of Goddard Public Schools alumni, staff, and friends who are making a difference. It recognizes the legacy of those who have gone ahead of us and, in part because of their association with Goddard Public Schools, have made a positive impact on the world and lives of others. Click the link below to get all the event details for the induction ceremony and brunch, football game tailgate and more. Congratulations to the Goddard Hall of Fame - Class of 2024! https://www.goddardef.org/o/gef/page/hall-of-fame?fbclid=IwY2xjawFMD41leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHQjPIm8K-uiRKCvqirvapPSqYKJOZy38InPZr1J9vKz0B9Oe2jnHLs7Nhg_aem_GoFqq-kQjyM3Vv-GeKBaCA

Did you know that EACH school’s website and mobile app have a section entirely dedicated to upcoming events? The calendar items can be added directly to your Apple or Google Calendar! You can even subscribe to your school’s calendar, so you never miss a beat. School-wide events, PTO/Booster Club fundraisers, games and activities can all be found by checking out the EVENTS section of your school’s website and mobile app. Check out and tune into the fun today! Android/Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.apptegy.goddardschoolsks&hl=en_US&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2Xd3HjfHyu3bzwMqcSYvKovQAAeyNrm3HoOnVbAZdKwS_a4mAEynukFhM_aem_puiAgaolsiQxkAGfJlpROg Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/usd-265-goddard-public-schools/id6448068713

Nothing beats the satisfaction of a rewarding career, and we have opportunities right here in Goddard Public Schools! Join our mission to ensure safe and reliable transportation for our students each day. By becoming a school bus driver, you can earn a $500 bonus, $20-per-hour wage, and paid training to obtain your Commercial Driving License (CDL). Ready to start the conversation? Follow the link below to directly connect with our team of dedicated transportation professionals, and take the next step toward creating a positive impact each and every day! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfIGgOCjTqCLapI3gK6Q_zsci6sBDCjnq4KWp5xfOLXKIjciA/viewform?usp=sf_link Learn more about what it's like to be a part of this team by watching this video: https://youtu.be/tPCWPUVN-L4 .

Today we pause to remember the lives lost, sacrifices made, and human journeys forever affected by the events of September 11th, 2001. As a country, we stand united honoring the memory of the fallen, and reflect together on the spirit of endurance that guides this great nation. This Patriot Day, we want to say THANK YOU to every armed service member, first responder, and all who serve these beautiful United States of America!

Have you purchased your TICKET-TO-RIDE yet?! The Goddard Education Foundation has partnered with local businesses and organizations to host an exciting raffle that helps enhance education in our schools! The winner can choose between a brand new 2024 Chevy Blazer EV ($50,480 MSRP), a $35,000 credit towards the purchase of any vehicle at a Don Hattan dealership, OR $25,000 cash - and 100% of the proceeds stay right here in our community! As a part of the Ticket-to-Ride vehicle raffle, GEF has been on a tour of the school district with Lange Real Estate visiting various staff and families to boost involvement and get our #265Family excited for this opportunity. There’s a complete schedule of all Ticket-to-Ride stops along the tour, simply click the link below to learn more. Spot your school or department in the photos? Give them a shoutout! Ready to purchase your TICKET-TO-RIDE today?! See the link below or call 316-794-4000 to learn more today! https://secure.qgiv.com/for/2024gefraffle/event/2024gefraffle/

"A good mentor can inspire hope, ignite the imagination, and instill a love of learning." – Brad Henry Congratulations to Mrs. Brandy Lane, Eisenhower Middle School, and Mrs. Carrie McSwain, Challenger Intermediate School, on receiving the District Attitude Award! Mr. Tracy Bauer, Senior Program Consultant with the New Teacher Center, nominated them. Their nominator wrote, “I wanted to shine a light on your Mentoring Program Leaders, Brandy Lane and Carrie McSwain. These two dynamos have taken on the leadership of the mentoring program with such enthusiasm and commitment that culminated in them leading a successful mentoring training last week for all new mentors in the district. Brandy and Carrie have achieved the following in less than a year: • redesigned the program to ensure cohesiveness and a commitment to developing teacher instruction • supported all mentors in the district through professional learning opportunities and one-to-one coaching • learned and prepared a comprehensive mentoring training for an audience of new mentors • effectively facilitated the mentoring training with a diverse group of peer teachers by stepping into the shoes of professional learning facilitators Brandy and Carrie have blown me away with their commitment to this work and their willingness to take on these leadership roles. Their presenter skills showcased their many talents, especially their ability to listen and respond effectively to their fellow teacher mentors. One participant said the following about the training, "Then I realized that I was sitting in the first professional development that I have truly enjoyed in years." Brandy and Carrie are true leaders of education in Goddard; their peers respect them and they deeply understand all facets of education including social-emotional, student-centered instruction, and meeting all learners' needs. They embody the values and vision of Goddard, and I am honored to be their partner in this work.”

"All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them." - Walt Disney Congratulations to Hunter Noblit, Maintenance Team, for receiving the District Attitude Award! His nominator, Mr. Blake Andrews, GHS Cross Country Coach wrote, “I would like to nominate Hunter Noblit for the District Attitude Award for his immense contributions to the Goddard High School Cross Country Program. Hunter has gone above and beyond his duties as a maintenance worker and has taken extra time out of his work week to mow out our very own 5K Cross Country course to run on campus! Having our own 5k cross-country course on campus has been a dream come true for our athletes and coaches. This accomplishment not only provides a dedicated space for practice but also significantly enhances the training experience for our students. His efforts to maintain and mow the course each week have played a crucial role in preparing our team for our season. Hunter is balancing his responsibilities with the maintenance department and committing his time to ensure our course is in top condition. Hunter exemplifies a level of dedication and teamwork that goes above and beyond what is expected of him. His willingness to take on this task, despite his busy schedule, reflects the positive attitude and commitment that not only benefits the cross-country program, but is a great example for all staff and students. People like Hunter are the reason why I love working at Goddard Public Schools. He has helped make my dream a reality. His hard work and attitude are not only appreciated but truly inspire all of us to strive for excellence. Thanks to his efforts, our cross-country team now has a fantastic place to train, which will undoubtedly contribute to our success. On behalf of everyone on the Goddard High School Cross Country team, thank you to Hunter for his outstanding service and dedication. His contributions make a significant difference, and we are grateful for his ongoing support. This dedication is not just noticed by myself, but also the athletes as stated below: #1 “Running on the campus course is a pleasure. It’s great for me to get ready for cross country and I enjoy it a lot. It never gets old and I always enjoy running on it. Thank you.” #2 “Running on the course provided a nice change of pace from the trails and is easy to track our mileage. It has been a great tool that we have been able to use every week.” #3 “No one should be expected to put that much work in for such a small group of people. People like him go above and beyond out of principle. I don’t think there are proper words to thank Hunter for such a commitment of his work and time. The course has been amazing to run on! Thank you, Hunter!” #4 “I am extraordinarily thankful for Hunter, and how he puts in the work so we can run at the school. We are super luck that he is willing to make the track for us. Thank you, Hunter!”