Three outstanding individuals from Indian Hills Elementary School were recognized by the Board of Education on Monday night for demonstrating qualities important to the school's success:

💫 Shining Star Student Award – Ayaan Gaddam
Fourth grader Ayaan Gaddam shines brightly as a student who leads with responsibility, respect, and curiosity. Nominated by both his teacher and school counselor, Ayaan consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic and a positive attitude that inspires those around him. No matter the challenge, he approaches every task with focus, determination, and creativity. “Ayaan is not only a strong student,” shared Principal Chelsea Schmidtlein, "but also a problem solver, a creative thinker, and someone who truly thinks outside the box." Thoughtful, kind, and dependable, Ayaan truly represents what it means to be a Shining Star.

💫 All Star Staff Award – Nicole Vaughn
Second grade teacher Nicole Vaughn exemplifies excellence in education through her commitment to her students. Known for her compassion, energy, and dedication, Nicole goes above and beyond to meet the individual needs of every child in her classroom. “She doesn’t just teach – she connects, she inspires, and she cares deeply,” shared Schmidtlein. “Her students know they are seen, heard, and valued, and her colleagues know they can count on her for support, encouragement, and leadership.” Nicole’s passion and tireless effort make a lasting difference, and we are honored to recognize her with the All Star Staff Award.

💫 All Star Staff Award – Amanda Byard
Speech and language paraeducator Amanda Byard is known for her warmth, positivity, and dedication to helping others. She supports the team with exceptional care and attention to detail – preparing materials, volunteering at events like Kindergarten Roundup, and even organizing the school’s new teacher workroom after bond construction. “What truly stands out about Amanda is her warmth and positivity,” shared Schmidtlein. “You'll always find her with a smile on her face and a friendly greeting for everyone she meets.” Reliable, hardworking, and kind-hearted, Amanda embodies the spirit of teamwork we celebrate with the All Star Staff Award.

Please join us in congratulating Ayaan, Nicole, and Amanda for representing the very best of Indian Hills Elementary!

Washburn Rural High School's Computer Science Honor Society (CSHS) invites USD 437 students to celebrate Computer Science Education Week with a FREE, family-friendly event!

CSHS is an honor society that is built on the pillars of service, equity, and excellence within computer science. Their goal is to spark curiosity and excitement for learning by giving young students a hands-on introduction to computer science and STEAM activities, which include Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics.

The event is designed especially for students in grades K-6, but is open to students through grade 8. No prior experience required! Students will enjoy a variety of activities and carnival-style games, rotating through interactive stations throughout the evening. Parents are welcome to join in and explore the fun alongside their students!

Register today at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfj3asjeK2GBbBoa83NO7Z1HeuWHw5thTr5FPYYGNdsucrnvA/viewform

The Washburn Rural High School AFJROTC invites veterans to join us tomorrow to celebrate and honor your service at our Veterans Day celebration. Your courage, dedication, and sacrifice mean so much to our community, and we want to say thank you in person.

📅 Date: Tuesday, November 4, 2025
🕒 Time: 2:20 PM
📍 Location: WRHS Activity Center

Please join us so we can express our gratitude and celebrate those who have served our country. ❤️🤍💙

Come support your Jr. Blues and all the students participating at tonight's State Quarterfinal Soccer game vs. Garden City! Game starts at 6:00 PM at the WRHS McElroy Field and will be live streamed at http://wrhs.net/live.

The winner of tonight's game will advance to State Semifinals on Wednesday, November 5.

Reminder: Wednesday, November 5, 2025, is an early release day. All schools will dismiss 90 minutes early.

This just in! Your Washburn Rural High School Jr. Blues are 🏆6A Boys Cross Country State Champions!🏆 Four runners placed in the top 30:
🏅 Henry Laubach (22)
🏅 Brooks Kehoe (25)
🏅 Clayton Fink (26)
🏅 Duke Graf (28)

The Girls Cross Country team also had a strong showing, finishing 7th overall with top performances from:
🏅 Alyson Hinck (25)
🏅 Emily Graf (30)

Congratulations to all our runners and coaches for their incredible dedication and teamwork! You have made us proud!

Come support your Jr. Blues and all the students participating at tonight's Varsity 6A Football Week 9 game vs. Wichita South! Game starts at 7:00 PM in the WRHS Bowen-Glaze Stadium and will be live streamed at http://wrhs.net/live.

The winner of tonight's game will advance to Regionals on Friday, November 7.

Today’s “AI in Education” event at Indian Hills Elementary School brought together student leaders, educators, and special guest Kansas Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson to explore how artificial intelligence can enhance academic growth, social-emotional learning, and career exploration.

At the heart of the conversation was school counselor Hanna Mick, who shared the vital role mental health professionals play in guiding how students engage with emerging technologies. She underscored the importance of helping students learn to use AI ethically, responsibly, and effectively – preparing them not just for future careers, but for well-balanced lives in a world increasingly shaped by technology.

Come support your Jr. Blues and all the students participating at tonight's Regional Championship Soccer game vs. Wichita East High School! Game starts at 6:00 PM at the WRHS McElroy Field and will be live streamed at http://wrhs.net/live.

The winner of tonight's game will advance to State Quarterfinals on Monday, November 3.

We are deeply grateful to the Auburn-Washburn Public Schools Foundation and its volunteer leaders, who spend countless hours planning, fundraising, and reviewing applications to make programs like this possible. Their passion and commitment helps keep Auburn-Washburn a place where students and educators thrive.