Friday, March 14, 2025
School Year/Goodbye to Winter
Finally, some very warm temperatures have arrived, which I hope will stick around for a while. Hopefully, all the cold weather that brings snow or ice will be finished by the remainder of 2025.
I will say that the overnight ‘blizzard’ experienced on March 5, which resulted in a 2-hour delay at the start, was definitely unexpected. The conditions around that weather pattern were unlike anything I’d seen for quite some time. The warm temperatures a few days before, followed by the rain and the WINDS. Then, a slow drop in temperatures with rain turning to snow. Our crews were on top of the clearing early, and all was good. However, a slow drop in temperature suddenly accelerated, and the snow ‘slush’ created upon clearing our walkways and sidewalks immediately began freezing, and it froze hard. Putting salt down at that time was challenging as the high winds blew much of it in other directions. Thus, our lots and sidewalks quickly became solid sheets of ice. Of course, all this is happening in “real live-time.” In hindsight, I would make a different decision the next time if presented with a similar scenario.
Spring Break (I like the sound of that first word) begins today after our school day and will continue through Monday, March 24, 2025. Students will be back in class on Tuesday, March 25!
Graduation for the Spring Hill High School Class of 2025 will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025.
Opportunity to Complete a Survey Soon
Sometime in April, I will allow parents to complete a brief anonymous survey. The survey will provide ‘yours truly’ with feedback on the skill sets necessary to be successful as an educational leader. I strive to be the best in all areas but realize that it is important to continually reflect upon past performance and identify both areas of strength and areas for enhancement. The survey will be included/inserted in an upcoming edition of Link’d in, so please watch for it. If you would be so kind, please provide me with feedback.
Spring Hill Schools Bond 2025 Election to Manage Growth
Hopefully, by now, you have heard at least some tidbits of information about the #BuildingOpportunity Bond 2025 Election. This mail-in ballot bond election will address our continued rapid growth and if approved by voters, the USD 230 tax rate/mill levy rate will NOT change.
Projects outlined for completion upon successful passage include:
-
An approximate 30,000 sq. ft. Career Tech Education (CTE) wing addition at Spring Hill High School
-
An approximate 5,000 sq. ft. expansion of the commons/cafeteria area at Spring Hill High School
-
Classroom additions of approximately 5,500 sq ft. each at Timber Sage, Prairie Creek, and Spring Hill Elementary.
-
Roof replacements at Spring Hill Elementary and Spring Hill Middle
-
HVAC improvements at Spring Hill Elementary, Spring Hill Middle, and the Early Learning Academy
I’ll continue to share more information in the coming days, weeks, and months. Visit our webpage #BuildingOpportunity for the latest updates.
The District is projected to enroll an additional 1,000 students by 2031; by 2034, enrollment is expected to exceed 5,500 students. Please note that the successful passage of this measure will NOT increase the school tax/mill rate.
Facebook Live (@SHSchools) Session #1: Tuesday, April 1, 7 p.m.
Town Hall Meeting #1: Thursday, April 3, 7 p.m., (District Office, 17640 W 199th St.)
Town Hall Meeting #2: Tuesday, April 22, 7 p.m. (District Office, 17640 W 199th St.)
Facebook Live Session #2: Thursday, April 24, 7 p.m.
Each Town Hall Meeting will consist of a formal slide presentation detailing all aspects of the #BuildingOpportunity Bond Election and an opportunity for Questions.
The same format, except for solely being online, will be followed for the Facebook Live sessions.
I am ready and eager to share ANY and ALL information and answer ANY and ALL questions related to the #BuildingOpportunity Bond Election. Please reach out if you want me to speak to you personally, your friend, your neighborhood group, and/or any club or civic organization. Email me the possible dates, times, etc., and I will schedule it! I want everyone informed before voting!
Are you a registered voter or new to Spring Hill Schools USD 230? The deadline to register is TUESDAY, APRIL 22. Go to https://www.kdor.ks.gov/apps/voterreg/
Enrollment
Current USD 230 enrollment K - 12 as of 03/14/25 is at:
Grade K - 322; Grade 1 - 331; Grade 2 -310 Grade 3 - 318; Grade 4 - 337 Grade 5 - 331; Grade 6 - 323; Grade 7 - 327; Grade 8 - 273; Grade 9 - 315 Grade 10 - 269; Grade 11 - 259; Grade 12+ - 229*; Total - 3,944.
*Reflects a lower amount due to students who graduated early at the end of the first semester
NOTEWORTHY
The Spring Hill Education Foundation (SHEF) hosted the first Spring Soiree, “Mardi Gras!”
On March 8th, at Meadowlark Event Center, this New Orleans-themed masquerade ball was a huge success, and funds were raised to fulfill grants and scholarships! Guests arrived in their best costumes and masks, some even in costume, to enjoy fabulous food, DJ entertainment, dancing, and the opportunity to win some fantastic auction items. Many thanks to the volunteers and sponsors for their support of this event! More SHEF events are coming soon…
(https://www.usd230.org/domain/39)
SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS
Spring Hill High School’s wrestling team delivered an impressive performance at the Kansas State Wrestling Championships, earning multiple top placements in both boys and girls divisions.
Girls Division Highlights
-
Campbell Mermis (145 pounds): Mermis captured the state title, making history as Spring Hill’s first-ever female state champion. Her victory marks a significant milestone for the school's wrestling program.
-
Ellie Ruffin (135 pounds): Ruffin placed second, showcasing her competitive excellence on the mat.
Boys Division Highlights
-
Avery Bartek (157 pounds): Bartek secured a runner-up finish, demonstrating skill and determination throughout the tournament.
-
Gage Wingerter (285 pounds): Wingerter placed fourth in the heavyweight division, capping off a strong season.
Read more about our state wrestlers here.
Congratulations to the Varsity Girls Basketball team for winning their Class 5 Sub-State Championship last Friday. The Lady Broncos are now competing at the state level and play the Aquinas Saints today in Emporia - GO Broncos!
Class 5 State Basketball Bracket
Reality U was a massive success at Woodland Spring Middle School on Wednesday! Eighth graders from all three middle schools participated in this hands-on financial literacy simulation, connecting their education to real-world financial decisions. Students explored budgeting, career choices, and life planning, which includes decisions about housing, transportation, eating out or in, cell phones and the internet, and much more. It was incredible to see them navigate real-life financial scenarios and apply their knowledge in a meaningful way.
Spring Hill High School educator Gissel McDonald was recognized with the Captain Award this past month. She serves her school and community with faithfulness and a gentle spirit to make a lasting impact on those she encounters. We celebrate this leader and their effect on the mission of FCA!
March has been a busy month across the district, with various events, including plays, musicals, awards for Kindness, Read-a-thons, and much more. Staff and students share incredible learning experiences that everyone can learn from and grow from - and have FUN!
Joke of the Week
Q: What beverage does a tree drink the most??
A: Root beer! [Get it……ROOTbeer…ha]
Closing
I hope everyone has a great weekend and that you can enjoy all or part of Spring Break. Classes will resume on a regular schedule on Tuesday, March 25, 2025.
Enjoy Spring Break!!!!
PS: Have you experienced an employee going above and beyond for you, a student, a parent, a peer, or a community member? Please help us recognize that person by completing the 2024-25 Standing Ovation Nomination form!
PPS: Be sure and follow some of our USD 230 Social Media Sites on Facebook: SHEarlyLearningAcademy, DCESCavaliers, PCESMustangs, SHESColts, TSESRangers, WCESWranglers, FSMSChargers, SHMSMavericks, WSMSStallions
Most importantly, follow me on ‘X’ at USD230Supt.
