We're hiring! The Goddard Special Education Cooperative is looking for School Psychologists for the 2026-27 school year! Join a collaborative and innovative team of education professionals, where your work makes a difference in the lives of students each and every day! School Psychologists advocate for students, support mental health, help shape academic success, and create caring and connected spaces for our students to thrive. Here are just a few of the reasons to consider stepping into your next chapter in Goddard!
- Competitive Starting Salary
- World-Class Resources & Mentorship Opportunities
- Credit Given for Experience and Education Level
- Opportunities for Professional Growth & Development
- Amenities of Wichita Right Within Reach
Kansas school psychologist license (or provisional intern license) required. Click the link below to apply today, positions open until filled! Questions? Contact Sydney Graf at sgraf@goddardusd.com or by calling 316-794-4000.
https://www.applitrack.com/goddardusd/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=Special+Education+Licensed+Staff&AppliTrackJobId=1771&AppliTrackLayoutMode=detail&AppliTrackViewPosting=1
- Competitive Starting Salary
- World-Class Resources & Mentorship Opportunities
- Credit Given for Experience and Education Level
- Opportunities for Professional Growth & Development
- Amenities of Wichita Right Within Reach
Kansas school psychologist license (or provisional intern license) required. Click the link below to apply today, positions open until filled! Questions? Contact Sydney Graf at sgraf@goddardusd.com or by calling 316-794-4000.
https://www.applitrack.com/goddardusd/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=Special+Education+Licensed+Staff&AppliTrackJobId=1771&AppliTrackLayoutMode=detail&AppliTrackViewPosting=1
ICYMI: Did you catch all of the upcoming new family engagement events in our recent spring mailer?! We shared kindergarten enrollment event details, pre-k pre-enrollment event information, and more!
Click the link below to read the full digital version, and gear up alongside us for another great new school year!
https://aptg.co/Hsry2K
Click the link below to read the full digital version, and gear up alongside us for another great new school year!
https://aptg.co/Hsry2K
Tomorrow is School Librarian Day! Please join us as we celebrate the incredible librarians across our district who foster a love of reading, guide student research, and create safe, welcoming spaces for all. Thank you for helping students' imaginations soar, and sparking discovery around every corner!
REMINDER: There will be no school next Monday, April 6th, 2026. USD 265 Staff will be having a Professional Development Day.
There’s no place like Goddard!
A massive THANK YOU to everyone who attended the Goddard Education Foundation’s OZ fundraising event this past weekend! Whether you came out to celebrate, volunteer, donate, or simply show your support - events like this don't happen without a community that truly shows up, and Goddard showed up in the biggest way. Your generosity, your enthusiasm, and your genuine investment in the future of our students and staff remind us why we do this work every single day. Because of YOU, we are able to continue creating magical opportunities — the kind that spark curiosity in a child, inspire a teacher to go above and beyond, and leave a lasting imprint on families all across the district.
There is something truly special about this community. It's homegrown, it's authentic, and it runs deep. Goddard Public Schools continues to prove that when neighbors come together around something as powerful as public education, incredible things happen. We don't take that for granted!
To our volunteers and educators: you are seen, you are celebrated, and you are so deeply appreciated. The impact you have on the children and families of this district cannot be measured, and the community's support is a testament to how much people recognize and honor the work you do.
To all GEF Business Partners and donors: you are at the heartbeat of what we do, and you make it a reality. Your belief in our mission gives us the fuel to keep dreaming bigger and doing more. Words cannot express how much it means to the students, staff, educators, and families right here in Goddard Public Schools.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you! We are humbled and honored to do this work on behalf of all USD 265 staff and students. There really is no place like home!
A massive THANK YOU to everyone who attended the Goddard Education Foundation’s OZ fundraising event this past weekend! Whether you came out to celebrate, volunteer, donate, or simply show your support - events like this don't happen without a community that truly shows up, and Goddard showed up in the biggest way. Your generosity, your enthusiasm, and your genuine investment in the future of our students and staff remind us why we do this work every single day. Because of YOU, we are able to continue creating magical opportunities — the kind that spark curiosity in a child, inspire a teacher to go above and beyond, and leave a lasting imprint on families all across the district.
There is something truly special about this community. It's homegrown, it's authentic, and it runs deep. Goddard Public Schools continues to prove that when neighbors come together around something as powerful as public education, incredible things happen. We don't take that for granted!
To our volunteers and educators: you are seen, you are celebrated, and you are so deeply appreciated. The impact you have on the children and families of this district cannot be measured, and the community's support is a testament to how much people recognize and honor the work you do.
To all GEF Business Partners and donors: you are at the heartbeat of what we do, and you make it a reality. Your belief in our mission gives us the fuel to keep dreaming bigger and doing more. Words cannot express how much it means to the students, staff, educators, and families right here in Goddard Public Schools.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you! We are humbled and honored to do this work on behalf of all USD 265 staff and students. There really is no place like home!
REMINDER: There will be no school (and offices will be closed) tomorrow - Friday, April 3rd, 2026.
Calling all 5th-7th grade parents!! If you are looking for a fun and exciting way to keep your student engaged in learning this summer, then check out our USD 265 Big Cat Summer Retreat. This program offers a variety of sessions for your student to choose from. Enrollment for this program opened Monday, March 30th, 2026. Sessions fill quickly - sign up now!!
Big Cat Summer Retreat Registration Link: https://bit.ly/2026BigCat-USD265
To learn more about all of our USD 265 summer learning programs, please visit: https://www.goddardusd.com/o/gps/page/summer-learning-yearly.
Big Cat Summer Retreat Registration Link: https://bit.ly/2026BigCat-USD265
To learn more about all of our USD 265 summer learning programs, please visit: https://www.goddardusd.com/o/gps/page/summer-learning-yearly.
Today is Paraprofessional Appreciation Day, and we want to send a huge shoutout to the amazing paras across USD 265! Paraprofessionals are so core to a successful classroom environment. They provide essential support, patience, and care to staff and students every single day. We truly couldn't do it without you.
Summer is quickly approaching! Have you reserved your student's spot in one of the USD 265 summer learning programs? Enrollment for the following programs opened today, March 30th, 2026!
D.A.R.E. (4th & 5th Graders)
Goddard Kids Rock (3rd & 4th Graders)
STEM Academy (1st - 4th Graders)
These programs fill quickly, so be sure to snag your spot now. Click the link below to register now!
https://bit.ly/265SummerLearning2026
To learn more about all USD 265 summer programs offered, please visit: https://www.goddardusd.com/o/gps/page/summer-learning-yearly.
#265Family, we’re hard at work gearing up for the 2026–2027 school year, and we can’t do it without YOU! Mark your calendars for these upcoming, new student enrollment events: Tag your neighbors and friends who are moving or have just moved into Goddard Public Schools to join us!
KINDERGARTEN ENROLLMENT EVENTS
- Thursday, April 9th, 2026
- 6:30–7:30 p.m.
- At each individual elementary school
For families with incoming Kindergarteners - meet the staff, explore the building, and get your little learner ready for their big adventure! Not sure which school your address falls under? Check district boundaries at the link in our bio!
PRE-K PRE-ENROLLMENT EVENT
- Thursday, April 16th, 2026
- 4:30–7:30 p.m. (Come & Go)
- Challenger Intermediate School
Is your child turning 3 or 4 years old on or before August 31st, 2026, and living within GPS boundaries? Come learn about our incredible Pre-K programs!
Sign up, register, or learn more: https://www.goddardusd.com/o/gps/page/enrollment-26-27
It takes a village... and our village is the best.
Behind every great student is a dedicated team of teachers, drivers, custodians, and support staff. They are more than just employees; they are the heart of the #265Family.
Is there someone who has made a difference in your life or your child’s life this year? Whether they provide a safe ride to school or a word of encouragement in the hallway, we want to hear about it!
Nominate them for the #265Family Award today. A few minutes of your time could lead to a $100 surprise for a well-deserving staff member!
Let’s celebrate them! Nominate your hero for the #265Family Award. It’s a quick way to say "thank you" and gives them a chance to win a $100 cash prize!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScsMNl3z277aZNiN859FaFgJAPZq79zwU47Oi1uH8pqqESvPg/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=112499309207359684117
REMINDER - There will be no school next week, March 16th - 20th, 2026 for spring break and all USD 265 school and district offices will be closed. We hope everyone gets a chance to rest and relax, and come back recharged on Monday, March 23rd. From our #265Family to yours, have a fantastic spring break!
Do you know someone who goes above and beyond for our students and community? Nominations are STILL OPEN for the #265Family Awards, presented by the Goddard Education Foundation in partnership with Lange Real Estate!
Nominate a teacher, staff member, volunteer, or community partner who makes a difference every day. It’s a simple way to show your appreciation and give them a shot at a $100 cash prize!
Submit your nomination through the Goddard Education Foundation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScsMNl3z277aZNiN859FaFgJAPZq79zwU47Oi1uH8pqqESvPg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawQSwtRleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFPVWY5SlJEUjg2UXU1NlNnc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHn-VlibVzKbY1yGj-1MqJFWPK8WGLpWDi2kek1tzjRbc0AM8s3CF23n4rn9Y_aem_Hr3R4cbHfELWd1UXqFOUeQ. Don’t wait, nominations close April 3rd!
Nominate a teacher, staff member, volunteer, or community partner who makes a difference every day. It’s a simple way to show your appreciation and give them a shot at a $100 cash prize!
Submit your nomination through the Goddard Education Foundation: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScsMNl3z277aZNiN859FaFgJAPZq79zwU47Oi1uH8pqqESvPg/viewform?fbclid=IwY2xjawQSwtRleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFPVWY5SlJEUjg2UXU1NlNnc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHn-VlibVzKbY1yGj-1MqJFWPK8WGLpWDi2kek1tzjRbc0AM8s3CF23n4rn9Y_aem_Hr3R4cbHfELWd1UXqFOUeQ. Don’t wait, nominations close April 3rd!
The Goddard USD 265 Board of Education is excited to announce the hiring of Cody Kohler as the new Principal of Goddard Middle School (GMS), to begin serving on July 1st, 2026.
Kohler received his Bachelor of Science from Kansas State University in 2016. He earned his Master's of Education in Educational Leadership in 2021 from Fort Hays State University. He has taught in USD 265 at Goddard High School (GHS) since the fall of 2016. He taught Social Studies including World History, Government, Psychology and other Social Studies Electives. He has been in administration at GHS since 2020.
Kohler also has extensive experience coaching at GHS. He coached football for six years, boys' basketball for four years and boys' golf for three years. He was a part of leading some incredible student-athletes to successful student experiences that create life-long relationships and memories.
Kohler shared, "I am grateful for the love and support from my wife, Molly. We are blessed with three wonderful children: Archie (4), Teddy (2), and Izzy (1 month). Outside of my professional duties, I can be found spending time with my family. We enjoy spending time with our large extended family attending sporting events and visiting our family farms. I am both humbled and excited to take on the role of GMS Principal. I look forward to serving our students, families, staff, and community members and working together to build on the strong foundation already in place. Together, we will continue to create a supportive environment where every student can learn, grow, and thrive.”
Please help us welcome Mr. Kohler to his new role in Goddard Public Schools!
Kohler received his Bachelor of Science from Kansas State University in 2016. He earned his Master's of Education in Educational Leadership in 2021 from Fort Hays State University. He has taught in USD 265 at Goddard High School (GHS) since the fall of 2016. He taught Social Studies including World History, Government, Psychology and other Social Studies Electives. He has been in administration at GHS since 2020.
Kohler also has extensive experience coaching at GHS. He coached football for six years, boys' basketball for four years and boys' golf for three years. He was a part of leading some incredible student-athletes to successful student experiences that create life-long relationships and memories.
Kohler shared, "I am grateful for the love and support from my wife, Molly. We are blessed with three wonderful children: Archie (4), Teddy (2), and Izzy (1 month). Outside of my professional duties, I can be found spending time with my family. We enjoy spending time with our large extended family attending sporting events and visiting our family farms. I am both humbled and excited to take on the role of GMS Principal. I look forward to serving our students, families, staff, and community members and working together to build on the strong foundation already in place. Together, we will continue to create a supportive environment where every student can learn, grow, and thrive.”
Please help us welcome Mr. Kohler to his new role in Goddard Public Schools!
We've been made aware by LINQ (vendor for USD 265 Nutrition Services) that the online school meal menu links are currently temporarily offline for some maintenance. Don't worry! You can always view (and even download/print) school meal menus, all throughout the school year! Just click the link below, or log into your LINQ account to view anytime.
https://goddardpsks.sites.thrillshare.com/documents/departments/nutrition-services/school-menus/426171
https://goddardpsks.sites.thrillshare.com/documents/departments/nutrition-services/school-menus/426171
“If you are planning for a year, sow rice; if you are planning for a decade, plant trees; if you are planning for a lifetime, educate people.” - Chinese Proverb
Congratulations to Diana Van Horn (6th Grade Teacher, Challenger Intermediate School) for receiving the District Attitude Award from the USD 265 Board of Education! Van Horn was nominated anonymously by a district colleague, who shared the following, “It is my honor to nominate Diana Van Horn for this award in the Goddard School District. Diana’s decades of dedication to students, staff, and the district have made an immeasurable impact that reaches far beyond her classroom.
Throughout her career, she has continuously stepped into leadership roles — serving as a department head, contributing to numerous committees, supporting multiple sports and activities, and always being willing to take on whatever is needed to make our schools better. She leads with energy, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to doing what is best for students.
What truly sets Diana apart is the way she lifts the people around her. She brings humor and positivity to every room, brightening even the most challenging days. As a mentor, she has guided and inspired countless colleagues, and her influence can be seen in the strength and success of the educators she has supported.
Diana’s legacy is one of service, leadership, and heart. When she eventually decides to call it a career, she will be deeply missed and impossible to replace. Our district is better because of her, and I can think of no one more deserving of this recognition.”
Congratulations to Diana Van Horn (6th Grade Teacher, Challenger Intermediate School) for receiving the District Attitude Award from the USD 265 Board of Education! Van Horn was nominated anonymously by a district colleague, who shared the following, “It is my honor to nominate Diana Van Horn for this award in the Goddard School District. Diana’s decades of dedication to students, staff, and the district have made an immeasurable impact that reaches far beyond her classroom.
Throughout her career, she has continuously stepped into leadership roles — serving as a department head, contributing to numerous committees, supporting multiple sports and activities, and always being willing to take on whatever is needed to make our schools better. She leads with energy, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to doing what is best for students.
What truly sets Diana apart is the way she lifts the people around her. She brings humor and positivity to every room, brightening even the most challenging days. As a mentor, she has guided and inspired countless colleagues, and her influence can be seen in the strength and success of the educators she has supported.
Diana’s legacy is one of service, leadership, and heart. When she eventually decides to call it a career, she will be deeply missed and impossible to replace. Our district is better because of her, and I can think of no one more deserving of this recognition.”
“All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity.” - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Congratulations to Dirk Ankerholz (Math Teacher, Goddard High School) for receiving the District Attitude Award from the USD 265 Board of Education! Ankerholz was nominated anonymously by a district colleague, who shared the following, “It is my privilege to nominate Dirk Ankerholz for this award in the Goddard School District. As a math teacher at Goddard High School, Dirk represents the very best of what it means to be an educator.
Dirk thrives in the trenches of the classroom and takes great pride in the daily work of teaching and supporting students. He never looks for shortcuts — instead, he invests the time, energy, and effort necessary to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed. His commitment to doing things the right way has earned him tremendous respect from his students and colleagues alike.
What truly sets Dirk apart is the enthusiasm and energy he brings to his classroom each day. He celebrates student growth and achievement with genuine excitement, creating an environment where hard work is valued and success is shared. Students know he cares, and that connection motivates them to push themselves further.
Dirk’s pride in his profession, his relentless work ethic, and his positive impact on students make him exceptionally deserving of this recognition. Our district is stronger because of educators like him, and I am honored to nominate him.”
Congratulations to Dirk Ankerholz (Math Teacher, Goddard High School) for receiving the District Attitude Award from the USD 265 Board of Education! Ankerholz was nominated anonymously by a district colleague, who shared the following, “It is my privilege to nominate Dirk Ankerholz for this award in the Goddard School District. As a math teacher at Goddard High School, Dirk represents the very best of what it means to be an educator.
Dirk thrives in the trenches of the classroom and takes great pride in the daily work of teaching and supporting students. He never looks for shortcuts — instead, he invests the time, energy, and effort necessary to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed. His commitment to doing things the right way has earned him tremendous respect from his students and colleagues alike.
What truly sets Dirk apart is the enthusiasm and energy he brings to his classroom each day. He celebrates student growth and achievement with genuine excitement, creating an environment where hard work is valued and success is shared. Students know he cares, and that connection motivates them to push themselves further.
Dirk’s pride in his profession, his relentless work ethic, and his positive impact on students make him exceptionally deserving of this recognition. Our district is stronger because of educators like him, and I am honored to nominate him.”
Goddard Public Schools is proud to share the 2026 Legislative Platform, which is a document that outlines our priorities and advocacy goals for USD 265 students, staff, and families for this legislative session. This is just part of the work that is done to advance our heartfelt mission of educating ALL students for lifelong success.
Read in full here: https://5il.co/1qixz
Read in full here: https://5il.co/1qixz
Extending a heartfelt thanks to everyone that took time out of their busy schedules to join us for the 2026 State of the District address Wednesday evening, an annual update on the direction and future focus of our school district. The event included remarks from USD 265 Board of Education President, Jenny Simmons, as well as from Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Justin B. Henry. The staff, students, and families of Goddard Public Schools work hard to collectively advance the mission of educating all students for lifelong success. The presence of parents, staff, community members, business representatives, locally elected officials, and many others means that the future of public education is a priority in our community. It takes a village, and this district is fortunate to have invested community members that take an active role in supporting our students. Thanks to all of the partners and members of this incredible #265Family!
Today is Maintenance Appreciation Day, and what better time to give a BIG shoutout to the best crew around, best crew in town - USD 265 Facilities & Maintenance! From scraping sidewalks and parking lots after snow, to ensuring that HVAC units are keeping schools nice and cool on the first day back from summer - this team keeps our buildings safe, clean, and ready for student success. Thank you all for everything you do!
