Members of the Auburn-Washburn Public Schools Foundation delivered an exciting surprise to educators across the district today, awarding classroom grants to fund a variety of initiatives related to financial literacy, STEM programming, emerging technologies, and more! Fifty-eight grants totaling more than $46,000 were awarded, with every school in the district receiving some level of support.

The mission of the Auburn-Washburn Public Schools Foundation is to enhance, enrich, and expand educational opportunities for students in USD 437. The Foundation began awarding classroom grants in 1999, and since that time, it has invested more than $705,000 in expanded learning opportunities for our students.

If you want to support the work of the Foundation, which in turn supports our students and educators, consider making a donation online at http://www.auburnwashburnfoundation.org.

Washburn Rural High School's Computer Science Honor Society (CSHS) is celebrating Computer Science Education Week by offering a FREE event to USD 437 elementary students! CSHS is an honor society that is based on service, equity, and excellence within computer science. Our goal is to make a difference within our school and community. We want to do this by providing students an opportunity from a young age to learn not only what computer science is, but introduce students to STEAM activities. STEAM includes Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics.

This event is catered to students grades K-6 in the Auburn-Washburn School District, but open to students through grade 8. There is no prior coding experience required for students to enter. There will be an array of activities and carnival games available for students to rotate through over the course of the evening. Parents are invited to go to the stations with students as they explore STEAM activities.

Register today at https://sites.google.com/usd437.net/cshs/events/steam-carnival?authuser=0

You're in for a treat, and that's no trick! Join the Washburn Rural High School Student Council for a Trunk or Treat event on Tuesday, October 29, from 5:30–6:30 pm. This family-friendly event is open to the entire Auburn-Washburn community. Don your favorite costume and stop by for a spooktacular evening! More information is available at https://usd437.net/news/2024-10-student-council-to-host-trunk-or-treat/public-wrhs-home. 👻

Best of luck to Washburn Rural High School senior Liana Murphy as she represents Kansas in the Miss Juneteenth USA pageant in St. Louis on Saturday! Liana was crowned Miss Juneteenth Kansas in June.

Three individuals from Indian Hills Elementary School were honored by the Board of Education on Monday night. They are fifth-grade student Avery Goeden and staff members Michelle Litton and Anna Dulan.

Avery received the✨Shining Star Award✨ for exemplifying kindness, perseverance, and teamwork. Principal Schmidtlein praised her as a beacon of positivity who starts each school day with a smile. But what truly sets her apart is her kindness, said Schmidtlein. "You have a unique gift for uplifting those around you. Whether it's offering a helping hand to a classmate in need or cheering someone up if they are having a bad day, your compassion shines through."

Michelle Litton received the✨All-Star Award✨. Litton is a third-grade teacher who embodies a true passion and love for education. "Her positive energy and unwavering belief in every student create a nurturing environment where all children feel valued and inspired to learn," said Schmidtlein. Described as dedicated, creative, and enthusiastic, she makes a positive difference in the lives of her students and serves as an exceptional role model for all.

Anna Dulan, head custodian, was also recognized with an ✨All-Star Award✨. She goes above and beyond to ensure the building is not only clean but also inviting. "Her positive attitude and willingness to tackle any task, no matter how big or small, inspire all of us," said Schmidtlein. "She deserves to be recognized for her exceptional hard work and dedication to keeping our school clean."

Please join us in celebrating these shining stars for their remarkable contributions to the district!

Join us at Bowen-Glaze Stadium tonight – Friday, October 11 – as our Jr. Blues take on the Spartans from Emporia. Pre-game begins at 6:45 pm. If you are unable to attend, coverage will be livestreamed at http://wrhs.net/live.

Looking for community events to enjoy with your family? The community section of our website is full of ideas! From Trunk or Treat events to a Butterfly Family Festival, you'll find information about a variety of events and activities at http://www.usd437.net/fliers.

And don't forget about district-wide happenings! Stay up to date with the complete district event calendar here: http://www.usd437.net/district-wide/events.

🔨FOR SALE: Garden Shed🔨

Looking for a sturdy storage solution? This 10' x 12' garden shed was built by students in the Construction and Design class at Washburn Rural High School! Features include:

• 8' walls and double doors
• Textured smart siding and weather wood architectural shingles
• Floor system made with treated material

Support our students while getting a high-quality, hand-built shed!

Today is National Custodial Workers Recognition Day, a special time to show gratitude to the nearly 50 dedicated custodial staff members who keep our schools clean and safe. Thank you for clearing the trail for learning! You are so appreciated!

Come support your Lady Blues and all the students participating at tonight's Volleyball Senior Night Triangular vs. Blue Valley Northwest and Shawnee Heights! Games start at 5:00 PM in the WRHS Activity Center. Seniors will be recognized in between the second and third matches.

If you are unable to attend tonight's event, varsity coverage will be livestreamed at http://wrhs.net/live.