Eighth-grade technology students at both Washburn Rural Middle School and Washburn Rural North Middle School are partnering with the ESTEEM Environmental Lab to design and build birdhouses and feeders to support local bird populations. This hands-on experience connects engineering, environmental science, and wildlife conservation with real-world woodworking and design experience.

The project launched last week with an engaging presentation from Janeen Walters of the Topeka Audubon Society and Washburn University. Students learned about native Kansas bird species, appropriate food sources, and how thoughtful birdhouse design can help protect against predators. Once completed, the student-built birdhouses and feeders will be installed at Auburn-Washburn’s outdoor environmental campus, where they will support local wildlife.

Thank you to the Auburn-Washburn Public Schools Foundation for funding this project through their annual classroom grant program.

Come support your Jr. Blues and all the students participating at tonight's Boys Basketball game vs. Highland Park! Varsity game starts around 7:30 PM in the WRHS Activity Center and will be live streamed at http://wrhs.net/live.

There is now an opportunity for 6th grade students to take part in a Blue & White Football Clinic!🏈

📍McElroy Fieldhouse at Washburn Rural High School
📆February 16 & 17
⏰3:30–5:00 PM

Washburn Rural Middle School students will walk to the new fieldhouse located next to the WRHS soccer field. Transportation will be provided to the fieldhouse for Washburn Rural North Middle School students.

Register and pay online at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf6u2_MyViFjiphsfp5imiov2PteVx8d2Uu67r6cVJz9sYJDw/viewform.

Kindergarten enrollment is an exciting time in the life of a family, and at Auburn-Washburn, that process begins with Kindergarten Roundup! This event introduces families to school staff and helps them learn what to expect as they prepare for the year ahead.

Each elementary school will host a Kindergarten Roundup event on Friday, April 10, 2026. Learn more and register at http://www.usd437.net/roundup.

Please note that students must be 5 years old on or before August 31, 2026, to enroll for the 2026-2027 school year.

January is ✨School Board Appreciation Month✨. Please join us in recognizing the Auburn-Washburn Board of Education for their leadership, service, and commitment to our students, staff, and community.

Come support your Jr. Blues and all the students participating at tonight's Boys Basketball game vs. Seaman! Varsity game starts around 7:30 PM in the WRHS Activity Center and will be live streamed at http://wrhs.net/live.

New stars are lighting up the galaxy! Three remarkable individuals from Auburn Elementary School were recognized by the Board of Education last night for the many ways they shine.

💫 Shining Star Student Award – Mattie Hosie
Fourth-grader Mattie Hosie is an active learner who participates in class, listens attentively, and stays focused on her work. Nominated by her teacher, Ms. Finley, Mattie was recognized for being helpful, compassionate, and incredibly perseverant. "She approaches each day with a positive attitude and a quiet determination that truly stands out," shared Principal Melissa Wells-Martin. "She never complains, never gives up, and always does her very best."

💫 All Star Staff Award – Cindy Underhill
Paraeducator Cindy Underhill, who has served Auburn Elementary for the past ten years, was honored with an All Star Staff Award. Cindy has a special gift for balancing student independence with just the right amount of guidance and support. "She believes in giving students independence while also knowing exactly when to step in with guidance, insight, and support," said Wells-Martin. "Auburn Elementary is better because of Cindy's kindness, patience, and steady presence."

💫 All Star Appreciation Award – Heather Appenfeller
Preschool teacher Heather Appenfeller finds joy in watching children explore, learn, and grow throughout the year. Knowing she has played a meaningful role in their development is what motivates her, so it’s no surprise she has devoted nearly 30 years to her work. Heather meets a wide range of needs with care, kindness, and patience that is nothing short of extraordinary, shared Wells-Martin. "Auburn Elementary is so fortunate to have her guiding our youngest students and laying the foundation for their future success."

Please join us in congratulating Mattie, Cindy, and Heather for representing the very best of Auburn Elementary!

School has been canceled in the Auburn-Washburn district for Monday, January 26, 2026, due to extremely cold morning temperatures and hazardous conditions impacting travel.

When it comes to debate, there's simply no one better.

Washburn Rural High School is once again the 6A State Debate Champions! Our 4-Speaker team took home the trophy with an undefeated 14-0 record. Congratulations to Tarrence Byrd, Sophie Heinen, Shri Chidambaranthan, and Campbell Hight for their state-winning performance! 💙

We also had an incredible showing in 2-Speaker debate! Congratulations to Zain Chaudhry and Rebecca Reed for making it to quarterfinals, and to Joel Jijo and Garv Khurana for making it to doubles!

They’ve trained for this all season, and they deserve a crowd that shows up big. Let's fill the stands and give them the HOME ADVANTAGE as they compete virtually for a national title! 📣