Auburn-Washburn USD 437

Two teams from Pauline South Intermediate School competed in the Regional KidWind Competition yesterday in Overland Park, designing and testing wind turbines, presenting to judges, tackling an "instant challenge," and completing a knowledge test. The results are in, and we're proud to celebrate these amazing students:

🏆Team Kings of the Wind (Zeke, Marek, Justus, and Jayden) placed second overall, securing a spot at the state competition in Salina this April. The team also received the Most Improved Bejouled Award and the Most Improved Peak Percentage Award.

🏆Team KidWind 'Til the End (Scarlett, Baylyn, Chloe, Payal) placed third overall and is the only team in any age division to earn a perfect 100% on the Knowledge Quiz.

The teams were advised by fourth-grade teacher Carlin Smith, who shared, "It has been the most challenging and rewarding project I’ve ever done with students. We have all learned so much. The growth I have seen in the students’ confidence has been incredible."

Materials for the competition were funded by the Auburn-Washburn Public Schools Foundation through its classroom grant awards program.

Auburn-Washburn USD 437

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.

Auburn-Washburn USD 437

Students in the Washburn Rural High School (WRHS) Architecture & Construction pathway witnessed a historic moment this afternoon as FHLBank Topeka president and CEO Jeff Kuzbel presented a $10,000 check in support of the program. The gift will directly enhance hands-on learning for students enrolled in residential carpentry, woodworking, drafting, and other architecture- and construction-related courses by funding essential materials and equipment to support their work.

“We are incredibly grateful for FHLBank Topeka’s investment in our students,” said Auburn-Washburn Superintendent of Schools Dr. Scott McWilliams. “This gift strengthens a program that provides meaningful career exploration and industry-aligned skills. Partnerships like this help us prepare students for high-demand careers in the skilled trades.”

The gift reflects FHLBank Topeka’s ongoing commitment to workforce development and affordable housing initiatives. The organization has championed similar education-to-career models, including its partnership with Metropolitan State University of Denver to establish the FHLBank Topeka Affordable Housing Institute at MSU Denver, which helps address the need for skilled professionals in affordable housing, property management, and resident services.

“Education is an important driver for community growth,” said FHLBank Topeka president and CEO Jeff Kuzbel. “As a proud member of the Topeka community since 1932, FHLBank Topeka has long partnered on initiatives that strengthen local development. We recognize the vital role that architecture and construction programs play in preparing high school students for future success and are honored to play a small part in expanding these opportunities at Washburn Rural High School.”

To learn more, visit https://usd437.net/news/2025-12-10-000-gift-from-fhlbank-topeka-supports-hands-on-learning-for-wrhs-architecture-construction-students/public-home.

2nd Annual Auburn-Washburn Public Schools Foundation Golf Tournament

• October 17, 2025 at 12:30 PM
• Cypress Ridge Golf Course

Please join us for the second annual golf tournament benefiting the Auburn-Washburn Public Schools Foundation! Now accepting team registrations, sponsorships, and donations. Visit http://www.2025AWPSF.golfgenius.com for more information.