Hutchinson Public Schools is one of only three school districts in Kansas to be
recognized by the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) and the Kansas State
Board of Education for achieving a Silver Star for excellence in preparing students for
kindergarten. This honor highlights USD 308’s commitment to early childhood education
and its strong partnerships with families and the community.
The Kansas State Department of Education emphasizes that a child’s path to lifelong
success begins well before kindergarten. Early learning experiences and strong
community partnerships play a vital role in preparing children for school and life.
Through its Kansans Can Star Recognition program, KSDE honors districts and
communities that provide high-quality, inclusive early childhood opportunities for young
children and their families. The goal is to ensure every child enters kindergarten at age
five socially, emotionally, and academically ready to learn and succeed.
Hutchinson Public Schools also received recognition in two additional areas. One for
their outcomes in individual plans of study (Bronze Star), providing opportunities for
students to experience connected learning which develops academic knowledge and
technical and employability skills. The other in social-emotional growth (Copper Star).,
promoting character competencies for life-long learning and success in life.
The Star Recognition Program celebrates Kansas school districts and systems for their
outstanding achievements in key areas that reflect success across the state’s education
system. The program highlights excellence, using both quantitative and qualitative
measures to showcase districts’ accomplishments and areas of strength. Districts can
receive gold, silver, bronze or copper stars.
This week we’re celebrating National School Lunch Week 2025 — and it’s all about fun, flavor, and fueling learning! 🎉
Students can look forward to themed lunches, fresh favorites, and special surprises in the cafeteria all week long.
Let’s make healthy eating exciting!
#NSLW2025 #SchoolNutrition #EatSmart
National School Lunch Week 2025 is celebrated from October 13–17, 2025, with the theme "Taste the World: Your School Lunch Passport". The week-long celebration, organized by the School Nutrition Association (SNA), highlights the importance of healthy school meals through international-themed menus and activities.
Homecoming Early Release Reminder & Parade Parking Update
Parents & Guardians- Don't forget that all schools dismiss one hour early tomorrow, Friday, 9/26. Boys & Girls Club, Trinity Treasures, and Hadley DayCare will be picking up students for the early dismissal. Durham bus will also be busing students home as usual with the early release.
If you are planning to attend the Homecoming Parade and/or football game- The Cosmosphere parking lots will not be available for parking. Please use other parking lots as indicated on the accompanying map.
For more information please visit www.usd308.com/hoco
eBoard Notes 9-22-2025
HUTCHINSON- The Hutchinson Public Schools Board of Education held its regular meeting Monday, September 22 at 6:00 PM at the Administrative Center located at 1520 North Plum St.
Hutchinson Public Schools has announced its accreditation for the 2025-2026 school year. The Kansas State Department of Education recently shifted from a five-year accreditation cycle to an annual accreditation model for all schools.
September 22 served as the official student count day across Kansas. Dr. Dawn Johnson noted continuing demographic trends, including lower birth rates in Reno County that have resulted in smaller kindergarten classes. This pattern mirrors a statewide decline, as Kansas saw 5,200 fewer students enrolled last year.
In her superintendent’s remarks, Dr. Johnson highlighted the District’s Virtual School and its use of Acellus software. The program grew by 37 students this year. The District selected Acellus specifically for its academic rigor.
Dr. Johnson also extended an invitation to Board members to join this week’s Homecoming festivities. Friday, September 26th is a one-hour early release for all schools so that students, families and staff can attend the homecoming parade. The parade will be held at 11th and Plum again this year. The start of the parade will be at 14th and Plum, traveling south and turning east on 11th. The parade will travel on the north side of 11th Street and will end at Stringer Fine Arts Center. Football fans will enjoy a packed pregame show at 6:20 PM as the District will recognize outstanding staff including Kansas Teacher of the Year nominees, Horizon Nominee, Certified Employee of the Year, Classified Employee of the Year, and the Salthawk Service Award. The Wall of Honor will recognize Brett Ballard, Class of 1998; Glenna Burden, Class of 1991; and Dwight Hemmerling, Class of 1966. Homecoming King will be crowned during the pregame show. Kickoff is at 7:00 against Salina South.
The halftime show will feature the crowning of the Homecoming Queen, performances by the Salthawk Marching Band and HHS Dance Team, and a Punt/Pass/Kick sponsored by Allen Samuels. The full list of Homecoming Royalty and the schedule of events can be found at www.usd308.com/hoco
The Lil’ Hawks Preschool program presented its annual report for the 2024-2025 school year. Lil’ Hawks operates 15 pre-k classrooms across multiple sites with additional programs serving children and pregnant mothers. For more information visit www.usd308.com/earlychildhood
There was no public participation during the meeting.
The Board approved the superintendent’s consent agenda, which included:
· A memorandum of understanding with Dillon Nature Center.
· Renewal of the Apptegy software and website hosting contract.
· A grant request.
The Dillon Nature Center MOU provides for 45 programs or field trips during the 2025-2026 school year, as well as Arbor Day and Conservation Day programming in spring 2026.
The grant request included a single item: $305 for Lincoln-McCandless Elementary to create a reading corner through DonorsChoose. Emily Moore, Lincoln-McCandless Elementary Principal, said, “Thanks to the grant funding, our fourth graders are transforming their classroom into a vibrant, flexible learning space designed to spark a love for reading! From cozy rugs and soft pillows to comfy cushions and chair fidget bands, students will have inviting, flexible seating options that make reading fun while boosting focus and concentration.”
The personnel report was approved as presented. No executive session was held.
The full agenda is available at www.usd308.com/boe. The next Board of Education meeting will be held October 13 at 6:00 PM at the USD 308 Administration Center, 1520 N. Plum.
In-person enrollment is happening at each school building until 7:00 PM.
You only need to visit one building to complete enrollment for all children in your family.
Enroll online anytime at www.usd308.com/enroll
