Navigating Spring Weather in Kansas |
Late April has certainly reminded us that spring in Kansas can be unpredictable. We’re hopeful the rounds of showers—and the more severe storms—are beginning to taper off. The week of April 13–17 brought a wide range of weather to our area, especially on Monday evening and again late Friday afternoon. It’s a good reminder that Mother Nature always has the final say!
As with any form of severe weather, the safety of our students and staff remains our top priority. Decisions regarding potential storms are never made lightly, and several important factors guide our approach.
On Friday of last week, you may have noticed that school districts across the region responded differently to the forecast—some opted for early dismissal, while others completed the full school day. There is no single “right” decision in these situations, as each district must weigh the unique conditions of its community.
When making these determinations, I consider several key factors. First, we closely monitor the projected timing of storm activity and its expected arrival in our immediate area. Second, if an early dismissal were to occur, some students may arrive home without adult supervision, and we know severe weather can be unsettling—especially if a home lacks a secure shelter space. Finally, our established safety protocols guide us: we do not dismiss or release students during an active tornado warning. Even in the absence of a formal warning, if severe weather is imminent or occurring, we can keep students safely at school until conditions improve.
Fortunately, last Friday’s storms did not reach our immediate area until closer to 5:00 p.m., allowing for a safe and orderly dismissal, with all buses completing their routes without incident.
As always, we appreciate your trust and partnership as we work to make the best possible decisions for the safety of all.
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Also winding down are students completing the annual mandated state assessments in Math, Language Arts, and Science. A lot of arguments for and against the annual state assessments can be made, but I do believe that, when used correctly, the data/feedback do serve as a point of reference for determining whether our approved curriculum and the curriculum we teach are aligned.
Needless to say, USD 230 students have performed VERY VERY WELL (93rd percentile) in terms of scoring at the highest levels (Proficient/Advanced) in comparison to their peers across Kansas. That accomplishment is a testament to our entire school community, as I always say: “Student Success does NOT happen solely by chance but rather through a myriad of stakeholders all working together towards an aligned vision.”
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Below are our latest enrollment numbers as of April 23, 2026.
(The total enrollment number reflects the approximately thirty students who completed their Senior Year at the conclusion of the first semester).
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(2024-2025 total enrollment was 3,968 students.) |
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Staff Appreciation Week: Share Your Thanks |
Our teachers and staff make a difference in the lives of students every single day, and Staff Appreciation Week (May 4–8) is the perfect time to recognize their impact. We invite you to share a brief note of thanks, encouragement, or appreciation for a staff member who has made a positive difference for your student or family. Please fill out this brief Google Form to submit your note.
We will make sure the staff member you select receives your note. Thank you for helping us celebrate the incredible people who make Spring Hill Schools a special place!
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Superintendent's Student Advisory Council |
Throughout this school year, our Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council has brought together an outstanding group of student representatives from Spring Hill High School and each of our three middle schools. These students have met regularly with district leadership, offering thoughtful feedback on policies, sharing meaningful insight into the day-to-day student experience, and engaging in open, honest dialogue about our schools.
Their perspectives have been invaluable in guiding decisions and strengthening our district. We are grateful for their leadership, their willingness to speak up, and their commitment to making Spring Hill Schools an even better place for all students.
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Big Curiosity, Big Eruption! |
Jackson and Kellan, 3rd graders at Timber Sage Elementary, built this papier-mache volcano from start to finish.
They researched volcano types, learned about different chemical reactions involved in eruptions, and even created a demo video comparing an “OG eruption” to elephant toothpaste. Then they had their classmates vote on which reaction to use.
A great example of student-led learning in action!
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April Board of Education Meeting Highlights |
Our April Board of Education meeting showcased the talent, leadership, and dedication that define Spring Hill Schools. The evening began with Spring Hill Middle School students proudly reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and our district vision statement, setting a strong and meaningful tone for the meeting.
We were honored to recognize Katie Sibbitt, instructional coach at Spring Hill Middle School, as a recipient of a Core Value Award for her commitment to supporting both students and staff. In addition, Spring Hill High School’s Real World Learning Student Ambassadors shared reflections on their experiences this year, highlighting the impact of hands-on, real-world opportunities.
The Board also welcomed back our Bronco Color Guard, who recently represented Spring Hill Schools at a highly successful out-of-state competition. Their performance and accomplishments are a testament to their hard work, discipline, and pride in representing our district.
We are grateful for the opportunity to celebrate these outstanding individuals and programs that continue to exemplify Excellence Every Day.
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199th Street Closure - The End is in Sight
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A reminder that 199th Street continues to be closed, although (weather permitting) the road is scheduled to reopen on April 27, 2026.
Until the road reopens, access to the District Office and Educational Support building will remain available by traveling west on 199th Street from Renner Road. The roundabout will remain open for traffic traveling north and south on Ridgeview Road and west on 199th Street.
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Celebrating Excellence in the Classroom |
Spring Hill Schools is proud to recognize our 2026 District Teacher of the Year nominees, Tristan Bartley of Spring Hill High School and Avery Ozier of Timber Sage Elementary. Both educators were recently honored at the Region III Kansas Teacher of the Year banquet in Overland Park, a well-deserved recognition of their dedication, passion, and impact on students.
Mr. Bartley and Ms. Ozier represent the very best of our district, creating meaningful learning experiences, building strong relationships, and inspiring students each day. We are grateful for their commitment to excellence and the positive difference they make in our schools. Please join us in congratulating these outstanding educators on this special honor!
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Event calendars for each school are available online at the links below. |
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Access the 2025-26 Academic Calendar at this link.
Access the 2026-27 Academic Calendar at this link.
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After today, only nineteen (19) attendance days remain for students as our school year is set to conclude on Thursday, May 21, 2026. I’ll definitely write at least 1 if not 2 additional “Link’d in” editions between now and the conclusion of our school year. If you happen to see me out and about in the next few weeks at one of our many events, please say HELLO.
Have a Great Weekend.
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PS: Be sure and follow some of our USD 230 Social Media Sites on Facebook: SHEarlyLearningAcademy, DCESCavaliers, PCESMustangs, SHESColts, TSESRangers, WCESWranglers, FSMSChargers, SHMSMavericks, WSMSStallions, and SHHSBroncos
Most importantly, follow me on ‘X’ at USD230Supt.
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