Today we celebrate the incredible Occupational Therapists (OTs) who are making a real difference in our USD 265 schools every single day!
Our OTs work behind the scenes - and sometimes right there in the classroom - helping students develop the skills they need to learn, grow, and thrive. Whether it's fine motor development, sensory support, adaptive strategies, or building confidence and independence, our Occupational Therapists meet students exactly where they are and help them reach their full potential.
To our amazing OTs across all schools: Thank you! Thank you for your dedication, your compassion, and your creativity. Thank you for seeing each student's unique strengths and challenges. Thank you for collaborating with our teachers, counselors, and families to create inclusive environments where every child can succeed.
Our students are better because of you. Our schools are stronger because of you. Our Goddard Public Schools community is richer because of the care you bring to work every day!
Our OTs work behind the scenes - and sometimes right there in the classroom - helping students develop the skills they need to learn, grow, and thrive. Whether it's fine motor development, sensory support, adaptive strategies, or building confidence and independence, our Occupational Therapists meet students exactly where they are and help them reach their full potential.
To our amazing OTs across all schools: Thank you! Thank you for your dedication, your compassion, and your creativity. Thank you for seeing each student's unique strengths and challenges. Thank you for collaborating with our teachers, counselors, and families to create inclusive environments where every child can succeed.
Our students are better because of you. Our schools are stronger because of you. Our Goddard Public Schools community is richer because of the care you bring to work every day!
Congratulations to Leah Whelan, 2nd Grade Teacher at Explorer Elementary School, and one of two district nominees representing USD 265 - Goddard Public Schools for Kansas Teacher of the Year (KTOY). This award honors exemplary educators, at the elementary and secondary levels, who go above and beyond in their classrooms and school communities to cultivate and foster a caring and connected learning environment for students. The mission of this program, which is hosted by the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE), is to build and utilize a network of exemplary teachers who are leaders in the improvement of schools, student performance, and the teaching profession. Leah Whelan shines bright as an example of what it means to pour your soul into your profession. Here’s a peak into just why that is.
Whelan was nominated for this recognition by Explorer Principal, Paige Hill, who shared this, “Leah Whelan goes well beyond the standard curriculum to ensure education transcends the classroom walls and becomes a lifelong part of our students’ lives. Mrs. Whelan does this by utilizing innovative teaching methods, focusing on each child as a whole, and withholding a strong sense of community. Mrs. Whelan instills intrinsic motivation within each of her students. She recognizes each student’s growth and praises efforts, teaching students that intelligence is not fixed, it can be developed through perseverance and grit.” Hill continued by sharing, “Mrs. Whelan brings the real world into her classroom, helping students understand the why behind what they are learning. She is aware of the individual differences each student brings and she strives to modify her teaching to match the students at their various learning levels. Mrs. Whelan also creates a safe and welcoming community where students learn from and with each other. This allows our students to build social skills and a sense of shared responsibility. She creates a dynamic and compassionate learning environment where curiosity is celebrated, effort is paramount, and collaboration steers the ship. Mrs. Whelan doesn’t just teach curriculum; she empowers young minds to become strong independent thinkers, empathetic citizens, and lifelong learners.”
Whelan shared a bit about her own motivations and what she strives to create in the classroom. “Even in my 18th year of teaching, I continue to have a love of learning. Education is ever-changing and so are teaching practices.” She continued, “The most important thing I have learned in my career is that students do not learn if they do not feel loved. In my classroom, students are loved for who they are first and taught second. They are encouraged to make mistakes, so they grow not only as students but as people. During our time together, I am dedicated to being the teacher who teaches them the important things: they are enough, they are loved, and they can do hard things.”
Thank you, Mrs. Whelan, for all that you have done and will continue to do to educate our #265Family for lifelong success!
Whelan was nominated for this recognition by Explorer Principal, Paige Hill, who shared this, “Leah Whelan goes well beyond the standard curriculum to ensure education transcends the classroom walls and becomes a lifelong part of our students’ lives. Mrs. Whelan does this by utilizing innovative teaching methods, focusing on each child as a whole, and withholding a strong sense of community. Mrs. Whelan instills intrinsic motivation within each of her students. She recognizes each student’s growth and praises efforts, teaching students that intelligence is not fixed, it can be developed through perseverance and grit.” Hill continued by sharing, “Mrs. Whelan brings the real world into her classroom, helping students understand the why behind what they are learning. She is aware of the individual differences each student brings and she strives to modify her teaching to match the students at their various learning levels. Mrs. Whelan also creates a safe and welcoming community where students learn from and with each other. This allows our students to build social skills and a sense of shared responsibility. She creates a dynamic and compassionate learning environment where curiosity is celebrated, effort is paramount, and collaboration steers the ship. Mrs. Whelan doesn’t just teach curriculum; she empowers young minds to become strong independent thinkers, empathetic citizens, and lifelong learners.”
Whelan shared a bit about her own motivations and what she strives to create in the classroom. “Even in my 18th year of teaching, I continue to have a love of learning. Education is ever-changing and so are teaching practices.” She continued, “The most important thing I have learned in my career is that students do not learn if they do not feel loved. In my classroom, students are loved for who they are first and taught second. They are encouraged to make mistakes, so they grow not only as students but as people. During our time together, I am dedicated to being the teacher who teaches them the important things: they are enough, they are loved, and they can do hard things.”
Thank you, Mrs. Whelan, for all that you have done and will continue to do to educate our #265Family for lifelong success!
Congratulations to Brandy Lane, English & Language Arts Teacher at Eisenhower Middle School (EMS), and one of two district nominees representing USD 265 - Goddard Public Schools for Kansas Teacher of the Year (KTOY). This award honors exemplary educators, at the elementary and secondary levels, who go above and beyond in their classrooms and school communities to cultivate and foster a caring and connected learning environment for students. The mission of this Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) program is to build and utilize a network of exemplary teachers who are leaders in the improvement of schools, student performance, and the teaching profession. Brandy Lane is a fantastic example of teaching with heart, but don’t just take our word for it. Keep reading!
Lane was nominated for this prestigious honor by EMS Principal, Evan Manning, who had this to share, “Brandy is an advocate for all students in her class, but also for all students and staff members in our building. She puts as much time, effort, and expertise into her world class lessons as she does into the support and connection for our entire culture.” He continued on to say, “She finds ways to connect with students that are outside the box, and incredibly engaging to 21st century students. Many great teachers will be applicants for the teacher of the year, but few will have also excelled as an advocate for all students and staff like Brandy has. Mrs. Lane has been on a team where we had to be critical, take ownership, look for solutions, gather data, communicate with other schools and make difficult choices for student success. Brandy helped create new building and district goals, collect data on student performance, collaborate with administration and counseling departments to set up new classes, intervention strategies, and instructional modification, all with the express vision of driving student achievement. Without the initial and continued leadership from Mrs. Lane, we would not be able to continue these impactful programs. I could not more highly recommend someone for this nomination as much as I do Mrs. Brandy Lane.”
Lane expressed how she strives to build a positive school culture through engaging with students, colleagues, and families through authentic learning experiences. “My classroom is a place where academic rigor, creativity, and care for the whole child meet - hopefully, creating a ripple effect across our school and district.The focus of this initiative centers around building relationships. My priority is for students and families to know I truly care for them.” She continued, “Part of how I build and maintain strong relationships in the classroom, is ensuring I build them outside of the classroom, too. I prioritize contributing to a culture of shared responsibility in the district. The results of these priorities are visible in both student outcomes and in the overall school environment. What began as a personal commitment to making learning joyful and meaningful, has developed into a broader effort that engages students, empowers teachers, and strengthens family-school partnerships. Ultimately, this focus has contributed to a school culture where students feel cared for, staff feel supported, and families feel connected—creating a community where learning and belonging exist together.”
Thank you, Mrs. Lane, for all that you have done and will continue to do to educate our #265Family for lifelong success!
Lane was nominated for this prestigious honor by EMS Principal, Evan Manning, who had this to share, “Brandy is an advocate for all students in her class, but also for all students and staff members in our building. She puts as much time, effort, and expertise into her world class lessons as she does into the support and connection for our entire culture.” He continued on to say, “She finds ways to connect with students that are outside the box, and incredibly engaging to 21st century students. Many great teachers will be applicants for the teacher of the year, but few will have also excelled as an advocate for all students and staff like Brandy has. Mrs. Lane has been on a team where we had to be critical, take ownership, look for solutions, gather data, communicate with other schools and make difficult choices for student success. Brandy helped create new building and district goals, collect data on student performance, collaborate with administration and counseling departments to set up new classes, intervention strategies, and instructional modification, all with the express vision of driving student achievement. Without the initial and continued leadership from Mrs. Lane, we would not be able to continue these impactful programs. I could not more highly recommend someone for this nomination as much as I do Mrs. Brandy Lane.”
Lane expressed how she strives to build a positive school culture through engaging with students, colleagues, and families through authentic learning experiences. “My classroom is a place where academic rigor, creativity, and care for the whole child meet - hopefully, creating a ripple effect across our school and district.The focus of this initiative centers around building relationships. My priority is for students and families to know I truly care for them.” She continued, “Part of how I build and maintain strong relationships in the classroom, is ensuring I build them outside of the classroom, too. I prioritize contributing to a culture of shared responsibility in the district. The results of these priorities are visible in both student outcomes and in the overall school environment. What began as a personal commitment to making learning joyful and meaningful, has developed into a broader effort that engages students, empowers teachers, and strengthens family-school partnerships. Ultimately, this focus has contributed to a school culture where students feel cared for, staff feel supported, and families feel connected—creating a community where learning and belonging exist together.”
Thank you, Mrs. Lane, for all that you have done and will continue to do to educate our #265Family for lifelong success!
Did you know that USD 265 offers adult education and diploma completion through Orion Education & Training? Orion utilizes a user-friendly curriculum aligned with state standards and works individually with each student to establish an individualized learning plan that will advance their academic goals. Life doesn’t always follow a straight path, and whatever may have prevented you from a traditional high school graduation, please know that Orion Adult Education is here to help YOU reach your goals for the future!
Programs offered:
High school diploma preparation and completion,
Career and college planning assistance,
Dual-credit courses to gain college credit,
Work experience credits and training, and so much more!
It's never too late to invest in your future. Learn more about how Orion can support your educational journey. Click the link below to learn more.
https://orioneducation.org/diploma-completion/locations/goddard
Programs offered:
High school diploma preparation and completion,
Career and college planning assistance,
Dual-credit courses to gain college credit,
Work experience credits and training, and so much more!
It's never too late to invest in your future. Learn more about how Orion can support your educational journey. Click the link below to learn more.
https://orioneducation.org/diploma-completion/locations/goddard
This week, we're celebrating safe school bus travel and reminding our USD 265 community about the importance of keeping our students safe on and around the bus.
STUDENTS: Remember these important safety rules:
Wait for the bus in a safe place, away from moving traffic
Stay seated while the bus is moving
Keep the aisles clear and voices at a reasonable level
Wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before standing up
Look both ways before crossing in front of the bus
Always stay where the driver can see you
PARENTS & DRIVERS: You play a crucial role too!
Stop for school buses when their red lights are flashing and stop arm is extended
Never pass a stopped school bus - it's illegal and dangerous
Be patient and alert in school zones and around bus stops
Talk to your children about bus safety rules
BUS DRIVERS: Thank you for keeping our kids safe every single day! Your training, vigilance, and care make all the difference.
Let's make every ride a safe ride! Questions about bus safety or routes? Contact our USD 265 Transportation Department at 316-794-4291.
STUDENTS: Remember these important safety rules:
Wait for the bus in a safe place, away from moving traffic
Stay seated while the bus is moving
Keep the aisles clear and voices at a reasonable level
Wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before standing up
Look both ways before crossing in front of the bus
Always stay where the driver can see you
PARENTS & DRIVERS: You play a crucial role too!
Stop for school buses when their red lights are flashing and stop arm is extended
Never pass a stopped school bus - it's illegal and dangerous
Be patient and alert in school zones and around bus stops
Talk to your children about bus safety rules
BUS DRIVERS: Thank you for keeping our kids safe every single day! Your training, vigilance, and care make all the difference.
Let's make every ride a safe ride! Questions about bus safety or routes? Contact our USD 265 Transportation Department at 316-794-4291.
Is your teen ready to get behind the wheel? USD 265's Spring 2026 Driver Education program registration opens this Wednesday, October 22nd at 10:00 a.m.!
WHO CAN ENROLL? Current USD 265 students who will be at least 14 years old by November 21st, 2025
PROGRAM COST: $275 for USD 265 students
IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER:
Registration opens: Wednesday, Oct. 22nd @ 10:00 a.m.
Payment due: Thursday, Oct. 30th @ 10:00 p.m.
Required in-person meeting: Sunday, Nov. 10th, 2025
Online coursework: Feb. 2nd - 19th, 2026
Behind-the-wheel driving: Nov. 22nd, 2025 - May 14th, 2026
ENROLL HERE: https://bit.ly/USD265-DESpring26
IMPORTANT: Space is limited and spots fill up fast! Enrollment is first-come, first-served, and payment must be received by the deadline to guarantee your teen's spot in the program. Questions? Reach out to Jacob Holle at jholle@goddardusd.com or 316-794-4142. Don't wait - mark your calendars for Wednesday morning and get ready to register!
WHO CAN ENROLL? Current USD 265 students who will be at least 14 years old by November 21st, 2025
PROGRAM COST: $275 for USD 265 students
IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER:
Registration opens: Wednesday, Oct. 22nd @ 10:00 a.m.
Payment due: Thursday, Oct. 30th @ 10:00 p.m.
Required in-person meeting: Sunday, Nov. 10th, 2025
Online coursework: Feb. 2nd - 19th, 2026
Behind-the-wheel driving: Nov. 22nd, 2025 - May 14th, 2026
ENROLL HERE: https://bit.ly/USD265-DESpring26
IMPORTANT: Space is limited and spots fill up fast! Enrollment is first-come, first-served, and payment must be received by the deadline to guarantee your teen's spot in the program. Questions? Reach out to Jacob Holle at jholle@goddardusd.com or 316-794-4142. Don't wait - mark your calendars for Wednesday morning and get ready to register!
Today we honor the dedicated bus drivers and transportation staff who safely deliver our students to and from school each day! The USD 265 Transportation Department is often the first friendly face students see in the mornings, and the last one they wave to in the afternoon. Rain or shine, heat or cold, early mornings and late afternoons - USD 265 drivers and transportation staff show up with patience, care, and commitment to getting every child safely where they need to be.
To each of our dedicated transportation team members: THANK YOU for your reliability, your kindness, and your commitment to Goddard Public Schools’ students and families. These are the folks who greet students by name. They notice when someone seems quiet or needs a little extra encouragement. They keep students safe on the road and create a positive and welcoming environment! Thank you for the care you bring to this essential work, and for being an important part of our #265Family!
Our students count on you. Our families trust you. And we are so grateful for everything you do to keep our schools running smoothly and our children safe!
To each of our dedicated transportation team members: THANK YOU for your reliability, your kindness, and your commitment to Goddard Public Schools’ students and families. These are the folks who greet students by name. They notice when someone seems quiet or needs a little extra encouragement. They keep students safe on the road and create a positive and welcoming environment! Thank you for the care you bring to this essential work, and for being an important part of our #265Family!
Our students count on you. Our families trust you. And we are so grateful for everything you do to keep our schools running smoothly and our children safe!
Reminder: NO SCHOOL TODAY! Friday, October 17th, 2025 - All USD 265 schools and district offices are closed following Fall Parent-Teacher Conferences.
Calling all certified educators! The USD 265 Certified Staff Career Fair is just TWO WEEKS AWAY!
04:30 - 08:00 p.m.
Wednesday, November 12th, 2025
Eisenhower High School (1230 S. 167th St. W. Goddard, KS 67052)
Join one of the premier school districts in Kansas! We're looking for dedicated educators across all levels and specialties. Join us for:
On-site interviews available
Variety of open positions
Meet district and building leadership
Don't miss this chance to make a positive impact with USD 265. Sign up for an ON-SITE interview by clicking the link below!
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0B49A5A722A6FF2-59174180-teaching
04:30 - 08:00 p.m.
Wednesday, November 12th, 2025
Eisenhower High School (1230 S. 167th St. W. Goddard, KS 67052)
Join one of the premier school districts in Kansas! We're looking for dedicated educators across all levels and specialties. Join us for:
On-site interviews available
Variety of open positions
Meet district and building leadership
Don't miss this chance to make a positive impact with USD 265. Sign up for an ON-SITE interview by clicking the link below!
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0B49A5A722A6FF2-59174180-teaching
"If a child can't learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn." - Ignacio Estrada
Congratulations to Laura Bakker (Instructional Support Paraprofessional, Explorer Elementary School) for receiving the District Attitude Award from the USD 265 Board of Education! Bakker was nominated by Paige Hill, Principal of Explorer Elementary School, who shared the following, “Laura has a remarkable ability to connect with each student on an individual level. She doesn't just help with academics; she takes the time to build genuine relationships. For example, I've seen Laura notice when a student is having a tough day and quietly offers a small break, a listening ear, or even a hug. Laura obtains a unique talent for discovering what each child needs to thrive, whether it’s a quick word of encouragement, a different way of explaining a concept, or just a little bit of space. She is phenomenal and we love her!”
Congratulations to Laura Bakker (Instructional Support Paraprofessional, Explorer Elementary School) for receiving the District Attitude Award from the USD 265 Board of Education! Bakker was nominated by Paige Hill, Principal of Explorer Elementary School, who shared the following, “Laura has a remarkable ability to connect with each student on an individual level. She doesn't just help with academics; she takes the time to build genuine relationships. For example, I've seen Laura notice when a student is having a tough day and quietly offers a small break, a listening ear, or even a hug. Laura obtains a unique talent for discovering what each child needs to thrive, whether it’s a quick word of encouragement, a different way of explaining a concept, or just a little bit of space. She is phenomenal and we love her!”
“The language of music is common to all generations and nations; it is understood by everybody, since it is understood with the heart.” - Gioacchino Rossini
Congratulations to Micah Bolton & Joe Richey (Band & Instrumental Music Instructors, GHS/GMS/Challenger) for receiving the District Attitude Award from the USD 265 Board of Education! Bolton & Richey were nominated by GHS Assistant Principal & Activities Director, Cody Kohler, who shared the following, “Micah and Joe, along with so many support staff and volunteers, hosted the annual Air Capital Marching Invitational this past weekend, welcoming 13 bands in total from across the area and state.”
Kohler continued, “Hosting the ACMI is a huge undertaking to coordinate Clinics, Competitions, Vendors, Volunteers, Merchandise, and so much more on top of ensuring your own band is ready to go. GHS was not only well represented by the Lion Pride Marching Bands' performance (taking 2nd in their division and 4th overall), but Mr. Bolton and Mr. Richey brought our school and community an awesome event showcasing our facilities and program here in Goddard. Administration received countless compliments to show appreciation for how well the event went and how great our Director and Assistant Director have done with every aspect, displaying first-class positive and welcoming attitudes to visitors from across the state! We cannot thank them enough for all of the hours of work that went into planning and running an event of this size and for them to represent our program, school, and community in the way in which they did!”
Congratulations to Micah Bolton & Joe Richey (Band & Instrumental Music Instructors, GHS/GMS/Challenger) for receiving the District Attitude Award from the USD 265 Board of Education! Bolton & Richey were nominated by GHS Assistant Principal & Activities Director, Cody Kohler, who shared the following, “Micah and Joe, along with so many support staff and volunteers, hosted the annual Air Capital Marching Invitational this past weekend, welcoming 13 bands in total from across the area and state.”
Kohler continued, “Hosting the ACMI is a huge undertaking to coordinate Clinics, Competitions, Vendors, Volunteers, Merchandise, and so much more on top of ensuring your own band is ready to go. GHS was not only well represented by the Lion Pride Marching Bands' performance (taking 2nd in their division and 4th overall), but Mr. Bolton and Mr. Richey brought our school and community an awesome event showcasing our facilities and program here in Goddard. Administration received countless compliments to show appreciation for how well the event went and how great our Director and Assistant Director have done with every aspect, displaying first-class positive and welcoming attitudes to visitors from across the state! We cannot thank them enough for all of the hours of work that went into planning and running an event of this size and for them to represent our program, school, and community in the way in which they did!”
“Inclusion is not a strategy to help people fit into the systems and structures which exist in our societies; it is about transforming those systems and structures to make it better for everyone.” - Diane Richler
Congratulations to Stephanie Espinoza (Special Education Teacher, Eisenhower High School) for receiving the District Attitude Award from the USD 265 Board of Education! Espinoza was nominated by fellow EHS Teacher, Stephanie Robinson, who shared the following, “Co-teaching is one of the greatest strengths of our district, but it requires trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to students. When a co-teacher makes you a better teacher, you know students are thriving - and so are you. That is exactly the impact Steph Espinoza has made in our 11th-grade classrooms.”
“Though new to the district, Steph has quickly become an integral part of our team,” continued Robinson. “She differentiates instruction with ease, blending expertise and creativity to meet students where they are. Just as importantly, she brings compassion and authenticity to her teaching. Students connect with her because she makes every learner feel valued and capable, and teachers benefit from her collaborative spirit and fresh perspective. Steph embodies what it means to be both an outstanding educator and a dedicated teammate. For her professionalism, her innovation in the classroom, and the heart she brings to our school community, I proudly nominate her for the District Attitude Award for Collaboration and Impact!”
Congratulations to Stephanie Espinoza (Special Education Teacher, Eisenhower High School) for receiving the District Attitude Award from the USD 265 Board of Education! Espinoza was nominated by fellow EHS Teacher, Stephanie Robinson, who shared the following, “Co-teaching is one of the greatest strengths of our district, but it requires trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to students. When a co-teacher makes you a better teacher, you know students are thriving - and so are you. That is exactly the impact Steph Espinoza has made in our 11th-grade classrooms.”
“Though new to the district, Steph has quickly become an integral part of our team,” continued Robinson. “She differentiates instruction with ease, blending expertise and creativity to meet students where they are. Just as importantly, she brings compassion and authenticity to her teaching. Students connect with her because she makes every learner feel valued and capable, and teachers benefit from her collaborative spirit and fresh perspective. Steph embodies what it means to be both an outstanding educator and a dedicated teammate. For her professionalism, her innovation in the classroom, and the heart she brings to our school community, I proudly nominate her for the District Attitude Award for Collaboration and Impact!”
REMINDER! Parent-Teacher Conferences are THIS WEEK! Tomorrow and the next day (Wednesday, Oct. 15th & Thursday, Oct. 16th) each school will be open from 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. for conferences. If you haven’t already, please schedule your timeslot in Skyward. And remember - no school on Friday, Oct. 17th (no classes, all school and district offices closed).
If you’re a high school student or parent, feel free to stop by Eisenhower High School (EHS) for their career fair event! This will be held from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 16th, in the foyer of EHS. This is a great way to learn about different options for life after high school where you’ll get the chance to speak with representatives from a variety of career paths about programs, degrees, scholarships, and more! This is open to ALL USD 265 high school students and parents (EHS, GHS, Goddard Academy, or Goddard Virtual School). For more information, contact the EHS Counseling Office at 316-794-4155.
If you’re a high school student or parent, feel free to stop by Eisenhower High School (EHS) for their career fair event! This will be held from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 16th, in the foyer of EHS. This is a great way to learn about different options for life after high school where you’ll get the chance to speak with representatives from a variety of career paths about programs, degrees, scholarships, and more! This is open to ALL USD 265 high school students and parents (EHS, GHS, Goddard Academy, or Goddard Virtual School). For more information, contact the EHS Counseling Office at 316-794-4155.
SPRING 2026 DRIVER EDUCATION - ENROLLMENT OPENS SOON!
Is your teen ready to hit the road? Registration for the USD 265 Spring 2026 Driver Education program opens Wednesday, October 22nd at 10:00 a.m.
ELIGIBILITY: Students must be at least 14 years old by Nov. 21st, 2025 and currently attending a USD 265 school.
COST: $275 for current USD 265 students
KEY DATES:
Enrollment opens: Oct. 22nd @ 10:00 a.m.
Payment deadline: Oct. 30th @ 10:00 p.m.
Required in-person meetings: Nov. 10th, 2025
Online coursework: Feb. 2nd - 19th, 2026
Driving sessions: Nov. 22nd, 2025 - May 14th, 2026
ENROLL HERE: https://bit.ly/USD265-DESpring26
Space is limited! Students are enrolled on a first-come, first-served basis. Payment must be received within the deadline to secure your spot. Questions? Contact Jacob Holle at jholle@goddardusd.com or 316-794-4142.
Is your teen ready to hit the road? Registration for the USD 265 Spring 2026 Driver Education program opens Wednesday, October 22nd at 10:00 a.m.
ELIGIBILITY: Students must be at least 14 years old by Nov. 21st, 2025 and currently attending a USD 265 school.
COST: $275 for current USD 265 students
KEY DATES:
Enrollment opens: Oct. 22nd @ 10:00 a.m.
Payment deadline: Oct. 30th @ 10:00 p.m.
Required in-person meetings: Nov. 10th, 2025
Online coursework: Feb. 2nd - 19th, 2026
Driving sessions: Nov. 22nd, 2025 - May 14th, 2026
ENROLL HERE: https://bit.ly/USD265-DESpring26
Space is limited! Students are enrolled on a first-come, first-served basis. Payment must be received within the deadline to secure your spot. Questions? Contact Jacob Holle at jholle@goddardusd.com or 316-794-4142.
October is Principal Appreciation Month! This month, we celebrate the dedicated principals who lead our #265Family with vision, compassion, and commitment. These motivated educators work tirelessly to create positive learning environments where every student can thrive. They come to school each day ready to face challenges and celebrate wins, alongside students and staff, to advance the mission of Goddard Public Schools and help educate every student for lifelong success.
THANK YOU to each of our school building leaders across the district for your innovation, dedication, and the countless ways you champion students, staff, and families every day!
Congratulations to Kirsten Hickey, Kindergarten Teacher at Oak Street Elementary School, one of the two 2026 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 in their second year of teaching, like Hickey, are fantastic examples of educational excellence.
“I believe one of the most important teaching strategies is instilling a growth mindset in my students. My first priority is to create a classroom environment that feels peaceful, safe and supportive - a space where every child feels valued and is encouraged to grow,” shared Hickey. “If you have a positive mindset, you will become more resilient. There is not a lot that a teacher can control, but we always have the power to control how we respond.”
Hickey was nominated with the full support of the Oak Street school community, including Principal Ashley Miller, who shared her endorsement of Hickey for this award. “What truly distinguishes Mrs. Hickey is her remarkable ability to foster profound emotional and academic growth simultaneously in her young students,” shared Miller. “She is an expert in differentiating instruction, ensuring that students who are ready for advanced academics are challenged while those needing extra support receive targeted, engaging intervention,” Miller continued. “Even during her first year of teaching, she consistently shared her best practices with her department and other staff within the building, demonstrating a dedication to uplifting the entire school's quality of instruction.”
The positive impact that Hickey creates in her classroom extends well past the walls of Oak Street, directly to our #265Family. Cherokee Gale, an Oak Street parent, shared about her experience having Hickey as her daughter’s teacher. “As a parent, you can hope and pray for others to treat your children as good as you can. We could not have asked for a better educator to show our daughter the love and support she can get between the walls of her classroom,” shared Gale. “(Hickey) created an environment that students wanted to learn. The culture within the classroom was clearly built on a passion for making sure all students feel safe and comfortable to grow into who they will be. She is the teacher you want to impact your child's mind as well as their heart.”
Congratulations to Kirsten Hickey, and thank you for fostering high standards and a caring environment, and representing our #265Family with distinction, a positive spirit, and dedication!
“I believe one of the most important teaching strategies is instilling a growth mindset in my students. My first priority is to create a classroom environment that feels peaceful, safe and supportive - a space where every child feels valued and is encouraged to grow,” shared Hickey. “If you have a positive mindset, you will become more resilient. There is not a lot that a teacher can control, but we always have the power to control how we respond.”
Hickey was nominated with the full support of the Oak Street school community, including Principal Ashley Miller, who shared her endorsement of Hickey for this award. “What truly distinguishes Mrs. Hickey is her remarkable ability to foster profound emotional and academic growth simultaneously in her young students,” shared Miller. “She is an expert in differentiating instruction, ensuring that students who are ready for advanced academics are challenged while those needing extra support receive targeted, engaging intervention,” Miller continued. “Even during her first year of teaching, she consistently shared her best practices with her department and other staff within the building, demonstrating a dedication to uplifting the entire school's quality of instruction.”
The positive impact that Hickey creates in her classroom extends well past the walls of Oak Street, directly to our #265Family. Cherokee Gale, an Oak Street parent, shared about her experience having Hickey as her daughter’s teacher. “As a parent, you can hope and pray for others to treat your children as good as you can. We could not have asked for a better educator to show our daughter the love and support she can get between the walls of her classroom,” shared Gale. “(Hickey) created an environment that students wanted to learn. The culture within the classroom was clearly built on a passion for making sure all students feel safe and comfortable to grow into who they will be. She is the teacher you want to impact your child's mind as well as their heart.”
Congratulations to Kirsten Hickey, and thank you for fostering high standards and a caring environment, and representing our #265Family with distinction, a positive spirit, and dedication!
Congratulations to Abigail Griffith, Science Teacher at Goddard High School (GHS), one of the two 2026 Kansas Horizon Award District Nominees for Goddard Public Schools. This award recognizes remarkable first-year teachers who have made an important impact on their students' lives and school communities. Teachers like Griffith, who is in her second year of teaching, depict what it means to bring excellence to education.
“You enter this profession because you have passion and you have skill,” shared Griffith. “You will not match anyone else’s teaching style or personality, and that’s a good thing! There are kids out there that need the ‘you’ that you are. They don’t need your version of another teacher’s style - they need you! So breathe, let the pressure fall away, and go be your best version of you. That’s where the magic is.”
Griffith was nominated with the full support of the GHS school community, including Principal Doug Bridwell, who shared his endorsement. “What distinguishes this remarkable educator as most outstanding is her unwavering dedication to building positive, caring relationships, her innovative teaching methods, and the profound impact she has on at-risk students. Innovation is a hallmark of Mrs. Griffith’s approach. Abbie is continuously implementing projects that go beyond traditional lectures and textbooks.” Bridwell continued, “What makes Mrs. Griffith truly outstanding is her holistic approach to education, one that prioritizes caring relationships, embraces innovation, and champions the success of every student, especially those most vulnerable. Abbie’s dedication not only enhances academic achievement but also fosters resilience, confidence, and hope.”
The positive impact that Griffith embodies in the classroom is likely best told from a student’s perspective. Hailey Nunn, a junior at GHS, shared about her experience having Griffith as her teacher. “I never really liked science or anything like that until I had Mrs. Griffith, and then my whole perspective changed. The way she taught made it interesting and fun, but also productive and easy to remember. She explained things in a way that made sense even if it was complicated.” Nunn continued, “Mrs. Griffith truly cared about all of her students. You could tell she wanted us all to do well and succeed, not just pass the class and move on. What I appreciate most about Mrs. Griffith was that she treated everyone as an equal, no one was above or below anyone. She would never talk down to anyone and she treated everyone with the same respect. By doing so, it made people respect her back. She was also super positive which made her class feel a lot less stressful. I learned so much in her class last year, not just about biology but about how having a good attitude and caring for others can make a huge impact on everything. Mrs. Griffith is the type of teacher you never forget and you hope stays in your life. She's the kind of teacher that makes everything around her better and the kind you'll remember forever.”
Congratulations to Abigail Griffith, and thank you for elevating excellence in education and representing our #265Family with pride, positivity, and enthusiasm!
“You enter this profession because you have passion and you have skill,” shared Griffith. “You will not match anyone else’s teaching style or personality, and that’s a good thing! There are kids out there that need the ‘you’ that you are. They don’t need your version of another teacher’s style - they need you! So breathe, let the pressure fall away, and go be your best version of you. That’s where the magic is.”
Griffith was nominated with the full support of the GHS school community, including Principal Doug Bridwell, who shared his endorsement. “What distinguishes this remarkable educator as most outstanding is her unwavering dedication to building positive, caring relationships, her innovative teaching methods, and the profound impact she has on at-risk students. Innovation is a hallmark of Mrs. Griffith’s approach. Abbie is continuously implementing projects that go beyond traditional lectures and textbooks.” Bridwell continued, “What makes Mrs. Griffith truly outstanding is her holistic approach to education, one that prioritizes caring relationships, embraces innovation, and champions the success of every student, especially those most vulnerable. Abbie’s dedication not only enhances academic achievement but also fosters resilience, confidence, and hope.”
The positive impact that Griffith embodies in the classroom is likely best told from a student’s perspective. Hailey Nunn, a junior at GHS, shared about her experience having Griffith as her teacher. “I never really liked science or anything like that until I had Mrs. Griffith, and then my whole perspective changed. The way she taught made it interesting and fun, but also productive and easy to remember. She explained things in a way that made sense even if it was complicated.” Nunn continued, “Mrs. Griffith truly cared about all of her students. You could tell she wanted us all to do well and succeed, not just pass the class and move on. What I appreciate most about Mrs. Griffith was that she treated everyone as an equal, no one was above or below anyone. She would never talk down to anyone and she treated everyone with the same respect. By doing so, it made people respect her back. She was also super positive which made her class feel a lot less stressful. I learned so much in her class last year, not just about biology but about how having a good attitude and caring for others can make a huge impact on everything. Mrs. Griffith is the type of teacher you never forget and you hope stays in your life. She's the kind of teacher that makes everything around her better and the kind you'll remember forever.”
Congratulations to Abigail Griffith, and thank you for elevating excellence in education and representing our #265Family with pride, positivity, and enthusiasm!
Mark your calendars! Fall semester parent-teacher conferences are coming up.
Wednesday, October 15th: 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Thursday, October 16th: 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Friday, October 17th: NO SCHOOL, All School & District Offices Closed
Please take advantage of this valuable opportunity to connect with your child's teachers, discuss progress, and partner in your student's success!
Wednesday, October 15th: 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Thursday, October 16th: 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Friday, October 17th: NO SCHOOL, All School & District Offices Closed
Please take advantage of this valuable opportunity to connect with your child's teachers, discuss progress, and partner in your student's success!
Get Ready to ROAR into Fun at the Goddard Fall Festival!
Pick up your copy of the Times-Sentinel Newspaper this week to check out the official 2025 Goddard Fall Festival Guide!
While you're flipping through, be sure to keep an eye out for the important notice from USD 265 tucked inside! It's packed with must-know information:
Details on the upcoming "G Day" event,
How to sign up for your FREE copy of the ROAR on 54 magazine (made possible by the dedicated efforts of the Goddard Education Foundation), and
How to download the official USD 265 mobile app.
Grab your copy and get informed today!
Pick up your copy of the Times-Sentinel Newspaper this week to check out the official 2025 Goddard Fall Festival Guide!
While you're flipping through, be sure to keep an eye out for the important notice from USD 265 tucked inside! It's packed with must-know information:
Details on the upcoming "G Day" event,
How to sign up for your FREE copy of the ROAR on 54 magazine (made possible by the dedicated efforts of the Goddard Education Foundation), and
How to download the official USD 265 mobile app.
Grab your copy and get informed today!
Are you a certified educator looking for a rewarding career with one of Kansas's premier school districts? Come learn what our #265Family is all about!
CERTIFIED STAFF CAREER FAIR
04:30 - 08:00 p.m.
Wednesday, November 12th
Eisenhower High School (1230 S. 167th St. W., Goddard, KS)
We're hiring for positions including: Early Childhood & Elementary Teachers, Secondary Teachers, Special Education, Speech Language Pathologists, Psychologists & Social Workers, and other support professionals!
Sign up for an on-site interview by clicking the link below!
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0B49A5A722A6FF2-59174180-teaching#/
Come be part of educational excellence at USD 265!
CERTIFIED STAFF CAREER FAIR
04:30 - 08:00 p.m.
Wednesday, November 12th
Eisenhower High School (1230 S. 167th St. W., Goddard, KS)
We're hiring for positions including: Early Childhood & Elementary Teachers, Secondary Teachers, Special Education, Speech Language Pathologists, Psychologists & Social Workers, and other support professionals!
Sign up for an on-site interview by clicking the link below!
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0B49A5A722A6FF2-59174180-teaching#/
Come be part of educational excellence at USD 265!
