While students are off enjoying summer break, our dedicated administrators are still hard at work debriefing from this past school year and planning for the next! Today, they participated in an engaging retreat that focused on lead learning, data-based decision making, employee engagement, and more. Leading with purpose and intention is one of the ways the district fulfills its mission of "inspiring, challenging, and preparing every child, every day!"

The 2024 National History Day contest kicks off today at the University of Maryland, College Park. Twelve talented Washburn Rural Middle School students will compete over the next several days in preliminary and final rounds. Join us in cheering them on and wishing them the best of luck!

The Board of Education recently honored three exceptional individuals from Pauline South Intermediate School. Sixth-grader Judah Crottinger received the Shining Star Award, while staff members Lisa Duncan and Heather Rodriguez were presented with All-Star Appreciation Awards.

In presenting Judah with his award, Principal Holman shared, "I can't say enough positive things about Judah and what he's done at Pauline South. I couldn't be more proud of him because he stands up for what is right." Holman continued, "If he sees something that doesn't represent our school well, he'll address it in such a mature way. When I say he represents our students well, I mean that to the core."

Heather Rodriguez has been a paraprofessional at Pauline South for nearly five years. She was recognized for the skill set she brings to the job each day – her competence, determination, and positive attitude. Beyond that, she has a great heart, and according to Principal Holman, "That's what makes her a difference-maker in our building."

Lisa Duncan just completed her 19th year at Pauline South. In addition to being the school librarian, she is the testing coordinator for state assessments, helps lead the school's STREAM night, and serves on many different committees. "She is constantly looking for ways to get books into students' hands," said Principal Holman. "And she's a consummate team player."

Please join us in celebrating these outstanding Auburn-Washburn stars! 🌟

Our construction partners are making excellent progress on Washburn Rural North Middle School! Take a look at these recent aerial photos.

You know you're good at what you do when you're asked to train other trainers, and that's exactly what Auburn-Washburn's Stephanie Bell has been tapped to do! Not only does Stephanie train our district drivers, but she assists with training other trainers from across the state, too.

Every year, the School Bus Safety Unit within the Kansas State Department of Education hosts a four-day "Train the Trainer" program. This year's event is currently underway at Washburn Rural High School. Twenty-four participants are on-site from every corner of the state undergoing classroom training on topics such as pre- and post-trip vehicle inspections, emergency procedures, and evacuations. In addition, they are practicing numerous driving exercises, including serpentine maneuvers, reverse park turnarounds, parallel parking, and modernized off-road skills testing.

Stephanie has served as a trainer for this event for the past four years. Thank you, Stephanie, for all you do to ensure the safety of students both in our district and across the state!

Pausing for a moment to reflect on the remarkable achievements of our students and staff during the 2023-2024 school year. Take a look at these POINTS OF PRIDE highlighting areas of excellence from the past year!

The latest edition of School News will be arriving in your 📪 soon! This particular edition is a special one because it showcases some of the remarkable partnerships that exist between our schools and local businesses, including a feature article on the annual lock-in event hosted by Stephen Smith Gallery for advanced art students from Washburn Rural High School.

Other highlights in this edition include:

• Bond project updates
• School highlights
• Distinguished staff awards
• Retiree recognitions
• Online registration information

Can't wait for your mail to arrive? A digital version is available at rb.gy/55s6lz. Happy reading!

Piper Worley, an incoming fifth-grader at Auburn Elementary School, exemplifies what it means to be a 'Good Kid,' and this story highlights one of the reasons why. Thank you, Piper, for your kind heart and compassionate spirit.

Congratulations to these former Washburn Rural High School athletes for being honored at last night's Topeka Shawnee County Sports Awards Ceremony:

JC Heim – Fall Male Athlete of the Year
In addition to All-State recognition, Heim was named Shawnee County and Centennial League Defensive Player of the Year. He will continue his football career at Washburn University this fall.

Brogan Meier – Winter Male Athlete of the Year
A four-time All-City and All-Centennial League honoree, Meier helped lead the Junior Blues to four city team titles and three league championships. He is headed to Missouri State University in the fall.

Fun Fact: JC and Brogan have attended school together since their kindergarten days at Farley Elementary School.

There are many summer camps happening across the district. Visit https://usd437.net/fliers to explore upcoming science camps, coding camps, music camps, and athletic camps!