As we celebrate the spirit of the season, we're filled with gratitude for the incredible students, dedicated staff, and supportive families who make Goddard Public Schools such a special place. To every member of our #265Family, thank you for your commitment, your kindness, and your belief in the positive power of education!
All schools and district offices will be closed for the next two weeks for winter break: Monday, Dec. 22nd, 2025 - Friday, Jan. 2nd, 2026. Additionally, Monday, Jan. 5th, 2026 will serve as a Teacher Work Day for staff, so there will be no classes. We look forward to welcoming our school communities back on Tuesday, Jan. 6th, 2026.
Wishing everyone peace and joy this winter break, from our #265Family to yours! We're so excited for the new year and all the amazing things ahead. Here's to continuing to learn, grow, and shine together!
All schools and district offices will be closed for the next two weeks for winter break: Monday, Dec. 22nd, 2025 - Friday, Jan. 2nd, 2026. Additionally, Monday, Jan. 5th, 2026 will serve as a Teacher Work Day for staff, so there will be no classes. We look forward to welcoming our school communities back on Tuesday, Jan. 6th, 2026.
Wishing everyone peace and joy this winter break, from our #265Family to yours! We're so excited for the new year and all the amazing things ahead. Here's to continuing to learn, grow, and shine together!
There's still time to make a positive impact on our #265Family!
Support the Goddard Education Foundation's "Give. Gratitude. Goddard." year-end giving campaign and help us continue inspiring minds and expanding possibilities for every student and educator in USD 265!
Your generosity powers innovation, supports teachers, and enriches learning for the entire #265Family. Give today: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/goddardpublicschools
Support the Goddard Education Foundation's "Give. Gratitude. Goddard." year-end giving campaign and help us continue inspiring minds and expanding possibilities for every student and educator in USD 265!
Your generosity powers innovation, supports teachers, and enriches learning for the entire #265Family. Give today: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/goddardpublicschools
To all of the incredible Goddard Education Foundation Business Partners - THANK YOU! Your commitment to our students and educators doesn't go unnoticed. Because of your partnership, we're able to provide resources, opportunities, and experiences that truly make a difference in the lives of our #265Family.
We're proud to work alongside community partners who believe in the power of education. Together, we're #BetterTogether!
We're proud to work alongside community partners who believe in the power of education. Together, we're #BetterTogether!
Are you looking for a rewarding career teaching in one of the premier districts in the state of Kansas? Consider attending our Prospective Teacher Recruitment Event! This will also include the opportunity to spend half of the day shadowing a current USD 265 educator, and the other half gaining valuable professional development from our world-class staff.
8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 8th, 2026
USD 265 District Conference Center
315 S. Main St. Goddard, KS 67052
Click the link below to sign up for an on-site interview!
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0B49A5A722A6FF2-60104719-prospective
8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 8th, 2026
USD 265 District Conference Center
315 S. Main St. Goddard, KS 67052
Click the link below to sign up for an on-site interview!
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0B49A5A722A6FF2-60104719-prospective
After more than 20 years of dedication, we recognize and celebrate the incredible service of Mark Richards to the Goddard Public Schools Board of Education! Mark's tenure as a Board Member, including serving as Board President on three separate occasions, has helped guide our district through decades of change and growth, all focused on the mission to “educate all students for lifelong success.”
Mark's commitment has been central to the stability and progress of USD 265. Mark’s consistent leadership ensured that the district's vision transformed into reality. His time on the Board encompassed major shifts in the district's strategic outlook. Richards was integral in supporting major facility updates.
Superintendent, Dr. Justin B. Henry speaks to the deep commitment required of those serving on the Board of Education, "There is no greater opportunity for servant leadership than to dedicate oneself to the vision of a public school district. Mark Richards’ 20+ years of selfless commitment to serving on the Board, including co-chairing two separate bond construction committees, has shaped not just our operations, but positively impacted the futures of thousands of students for decades to come."
Mark, thank you for your commitment to the #265Family. Your legacy of selfless service will continue to inspire our community!
Mark's commitment has been central to the stability and progress of USD 265. Mark’s consistent leadership ensured that the district's vision transformed into reality. His time on the Board encompassed major shifts in the district's strategic outlook. Richards was integral in supporting major facility updates.
Superintendent, Dr. Justin B. Henry speaks to the deep commitment required of those serving on the Board of Education, "There is no greater opportunity for servant leadership than to dedicate oneself to the vision of a public school district. Mark Richards’ 20+ years of selfless commitment to serving on the Board, including co-chairing two separate bond construction committees, has shaped not just our operations, but positively impacted the futures of thousands of students for decades to come."
Mark, thank you for your commitment to the #265Family. Your legacy of selfless service will continue to inspire our community!
Thank you so much for your generous support during 2025! Last week, The Goddard Education Foundation announced 30 Innovative Teacher Grant awards that will impact thousands of students in classrooms all across the District!
YOUR contributions helped make the dreams of our educators become a reality for our students. There is still time to double your impact! Every gift makes a difference in creating educational excellence. Visit https://secure.qgiv.com/for/goddardpublicschools to give today!
Thank you to ALL the supporters, business partners, alumni, and friends who have contributed to the Goddard Education Foundation. Your tax-deductible gifts are enriching the educational experience of 6,400 students for 13+ years of their lives!
“The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary.” - Vince Lombardi
Additionally, at Monday night’s Board of Education meeting, four teachers were honored for their outstanding efforts in providing excellence in education to the students of Goddard Public Schools. Brandy Lane and Leah Whelan were recognized as this year’s district nominees for Kansas Teacher of the Year (KTOY), and Abbie Griffith and Kirsten Hickey were recognized as this year’s district nominees for the Kansas Horizon Award. Please help us applaud these outstanding educators for continuing to represent our #265Family with pride!
Additionally, at Monday night’s Board of Education meeting, four teachers were honored for their outstanding efforts in providing excellence in education to the students of Goddard Public Schools. Brandy Lane and Leah Whelan were recognized as this year’s district nominees for Kansas Teacher of the Year (KTOY), and Abbie Griffith and Kirsten Hickey were recognized as this year’s district nominees for the Kansas Horizon Award. Please help us applaud these outstanding educators for continuing to represent our #265Family with pride!
“Keep your face always towards the sunshine, and shadows will fall behind you.” - Walt Whitman
Congratulations to Vanessa Martinez (Kitchen Manager, Eisenhower High School) for receiving the District Attitude Award from the USD 265 Board of Education! Martinez was nominated by Pam Schmidt, Assistant Director of USD 265 Nutrition Services, who shared the following, “We’d like to recognize the outstanding attitude, leadership, and the positive energy that Vanessa brings to the kitchen every day. Through her patience, encouragement, and high standards, she’s cultivated a work environment where teamwork thrives, laughter is shared, and everyone feels valued.
Her ability to lead with both heart and professionalism has created more than just a smooth-running kitchen — she’s built a team that truly enjoys coming to work and takes pride in what they do. Vanessa’s example reminds us that a great attitude doesn’t just change the atmosphere — it changes people for the better. Thanks for making this kitchen a place where excellence and positivity are always on the menu!”
Congratulations to Vanessa Martinez (Kitchen Manager, Eisenhower High School) for receiving the District Attitude Award from the USD 265 Board of Education! Martinez was nominated by Pam Schmidt, Assistant Director of USD 265 Nutrition Services, who shared the following, “We’d like to recognize the outstanding attitude, leadership, and the positive energy that Vanessa brings to the kitchen every day. Through her patience, encouragement, and high standards, she’s cultivated a work environment where teamwork thrives, laughter is shared, and everyone feels valued.
Her ability to lead with both heart and professionalism has created more than just a smooth-running kitchen — she’s built a team that truly enjoys coming to work and takes pride in what they do. Vanessa’s example reminds us that a great attitude doesn’t just change the atmosphere — it changes people for the better. Thanks for making this kitchen a place where excellence and positivity are always on the menu!”
“Exceeding expectations is where satisfaction ends and loyalty begins.” - Ron Kaufman
Congratulations to Sarah Smith (Finance Secretary & Treasurer, Amelia Earhart Elementary School) & Taylor Smith (Attendance Secretary & Registrar, Amelia Earhart Elementary School) for receiving the District Attitude Award from the USD 265 Board of Education! Sarah and Taylor were nominated by Tegan Perkins Ulmen, Curriculum Technology Specialist - USD 265 Technology & Academic Affairs, who shared the following, “Sarah Smith and Taylor Smith are the heart of Amelia Earhart Elementary. Their positive attitudes make an extraordinary impact every day. Their cheerful energy in the office creates a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and supported. From managing calls and emails to coordinating schedules, assisting teachers, supporting the PTO, and supporting families, they keep us all going! They anticipate needs, solve problems, and handle every challenge with professionalism, FUN, and grace.
What sets them apart is their unwavering positivity and willingness to go the extra mile. They meet every situation with patience, creativity, and a ‘can-do’ spirit; no challenge is too big, no question too small. Whether guiding a parent, assisting a student, or juggling multiple responsibilities, they consistently exceed expectations and lift everyone around them. Sarah Smith and Taylor Smith perfectly embody the spirit of the District Attitude Award. Their dedication, kindness, expertise, and infectious optimism make Amelia Earhart Elementary School not just a place of learning but a community where everyone feels welcomed and supported. Their hard work and positivity are truly invaluable, and our school is better every day because of them.
Sarah and Taylor don’t just keep our school running; they make it shine!”
Congratulations to Sarah Smith (Finance Secretary & Treasurer, Amelia Earhart Elementary School) & Taylor Smith (Attendance Secretary & Registrar, Amelia Earhart Elementary School) for receiving the District Attitude Award from the USD 265 Board of Education! Sarah and Taylor were nominated by Tegan Perkins Ulmen, Curriculum Technology Specialist - USD 265 Technology & Academic Affairs, who shared the following, “Sarah Smith and Taylor Smith are the heart of Amelia Earhart Elementary. Their positive attitudes make an extraordinary impact every day. Their cheerful energy in the office creates a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and supported. From managing calls and emails to coordinating schedules, assisting teachers, supporting the PTO, and supporting families, they keep us all going! They anticipate needs, solve problems, and handle every challenge with professionalism, FUN, and grace.
What sets them apart is their unwavering positivity and willingness to go the extra mile. They meet every situation with patience, creativity, and a ‘can-do’ spirit; no challenge is too big, no question too small. Whether guiding a parent, assisting a student, or juggling multiple responsibilities, they consistently exceed expectations and lift everyone around them. Sarah Smith and Taylor Smith perfectly embody the spirit of the District Attitude Award. Their dedication, kindness, expertise, and infectious optimism make Amelia Earhart Elementary School not just a place of learning but a community where everyone feels welcomed and supported. Their hard work and positivity are truly invaluable, and our school is better every day because of them.
Sarah and Taylor don’t just keep our school running; they make it shine!”
“Fight for the things you care about. But do it in a way that will lead others to join you.” - Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Congratulations to Russell Fluty (7th Grade Social Studies Teacher, Eisenhower Middle School) & Jacque McLain (7th Grade Math Teacher, Eisenhower Middle School) for receiving the District Attitude Award from the USD 265 Board of Education! Fluty and McLain were nominated by Evan Manning, Eisenhower Middle School Principal, who shared the following, “Jacque McLain and Russell Fluty have gone above and beyond for our students. They brainstormed and created the EMS Learning Lab, an opportunity for students to work with staff and para support Monday - Thursday, from 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
They both saw a need for our students to have access to our staff beyond the school day. They planned together and then met with our staff over Professional Development days to go through the idea with them. They created a sign-up sheet and offered to work many of the days themselves. They created and communicated the plan to our parents and continue to monitor and maintain the learning lab for our students.
They have gone out of their way to create, teach, model, and communicate the EMS Learning Lab for all of our students, to all of our staff, and collaborate with parents to make it possible. It has taken a ton of time and elicited a lot of feedback, but they are in it for the long haul because of the positive impact it has on kids.
They are both fantastic candidates for a District Attitude Award.”
Congratulations to Russell Fluty (7th Grade Social Studies Teacher, Eisenhower Middle School) & Jacque McLain (7th Grade Math Teacher, Eisenhower Middle School) for receiving the District Attitude Award from the USD 265 Board of Education! Fluty and McLain were nominated by Evan Manning, Eisenhower Middle School Principal, who shared the following, “Jacque McLain and Russell Fluty have gone above and beyond for our students. They brainstormed and created the EMS Learning Lab, an opportunity for students to work with staff and para support Monday - Thursday, from 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
They both saw a need for our students to have access to our staff beyond the school day. They planned together and then met with our staff over Professional Development days to go through the idea with them. They created a sign-up sheet and offered to work many of the days themselves. They created and communicated the plan to our parents and continue to monitor and maintain the learning lab for our students.
They have gone out of their way to create, teach, model, and communicate the EMS Learning Lab for all of our students, to all of our staff, and collaborate with parents to make it possible. It has taken a ton of time and elicited a lot of feedback, but they are in it for the long haul because of the positive impact it has on kids.
They are both fantastic candidates for a District Attitude Award.”
A huge THANK YOU to the Goddard Education Foundation for fueling our incredible educators with staff appreciation breakfasts throughout the district! Your generosity fills more than just stomachs - it fills hearts and reminds our teachers and staff how valued they are. We're grateful for your continued support of our #265Family!
Did you know USD 265 provides FREE access to mental health resources through ParentGuidance.org? Here’s a peak at all of the offerings for December 2025! This comprehensive platform offers:
Mental health screening tools,
Expert articles and videos,
Crisis resources,
Tips for supporting your child's well-being,
Community resource connections,
And so much more!
Taking care of mental health is just as important as physical health. Whether you need immediate support or preventive information, ParentGuidance.org is here 24/7 for our #265Family. Visit ParentGuidance.org today - because healthy minds build bright futures!
Calling all college junior teaching candidates!
Are you looking for a rewarding career teaching in one of the premier districts in the state of Kansas? Consider attending our Prospective Teacher Recruitment Event! This will also include the opportunity to spend half of the day shadowing a current USD 265 educator, and the other half gaining valuable professional development from our world-class staff.
8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 8th, 2026
USD 265 District Conference Center
315 S. Main St. Goddard, KS 67052
Click the link below to sign up for an on-site interview!
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0B49A5A722A6FF2-60104719-prospective
Are you looking for a rewarding career teaching in one of the premier districts in the state of Kansas? Consider attending our Prospective Teacher Recruitment Event! This will also include the opportunity to spend half of the day shadowing a current USD 265 educator, and the other half gaining valuable professional development from our world-class staff.
8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 8th, 2026
USD 265 District Conference Center
315 S. Main St. Goddard, KS 67052
Click the link below to sign up for an on-site interview!
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0B49A5A722A6FF2-60104719-prospective
Bringing an even more customized, innovative, and flexible educational experience option for families. That's the Goddard Virtual School (GVS) advantage!
GVS students get:
State certified teaching staff,
Flexible scheduling for unique learning needs,
Access to rigorous curriculum,
Support from our dedicated staff, and
Connection to the #265Family community!
Whether you're balancing health needs, multiple job schedules, or simply thrive in an online environment, GVS offers quality education in a unique way - built to meet the needs of individuals where they’re at. Innovation meets tradition at Goddard Virtual School!
GVS students get:
State certified teaching staff,
Flexible scheduling for unique learning needs,
Access to rigorous curriculum,
Support from our dedicated staff, and
Connection to the #265Family community!
Whether you're balancing health needs, multiple job schedules, or simply thrive in an online environment, GVS offers quality education in a unique way - built to meet the needs of individuals where they’re at. Innovation meets tradition at Goddard Virtual School!
GIVE. GRATITUDE. GODDARD. It's Giving Tuesday!
Today, we officially launch The "G" Campaign, GIVE. GRATITUDE. GODDARD. Your gift means double the support for the dedicated staff and inspiring teachers of our #265Family. We have a massive goal: to raise $25,000 to fuel innovation and expand possibilities for our students. The best part?
EVERY DOLLAR YOU GIVE IS MATCHED!
A generous anonymous benefactor has provided a $25,000 Match, meaning your donation today has TWICE THE IMPACT on Goddard's future.
Your gift is a profound "thank you" to the tireless individuals who inspire our students every day. It transforms our strategic vision into a tangible reality, funding crucial initiatives across the district.
➡️ GOAL: Raise $25,000 total (meaning we need to raise $12,500 from donors to hit the full $25k match!)
➡️ IMPACT: Double your investment in funding Innovative Teacher Grants, expanding resources for students, and classroom innovation.
Don't wait! Give now and double your impact—this match won't last forever!
Click here to GIVE: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/goddardpublicschools
#GivingTuesday #GIVEGRATITUDEGODDARD #GCampaign2025
Today, we officially launch The "G" Campaign, GIVE. GRATITUDE. GODDARD. Your gift means double the support for the dedicated staff and inspiring teachers of our #265Family. We have a massive goal: to raise $25,000 to fuel innovation and expand possibilities for our students. The best part?
EVERY DOLLAR YOU GIVE IS MATCHED!
A generous anonymous benefactor has provided a $25,000 Match, meaning your donation today has TWICE THE IMPACT on Goddard's future.
Your gift is a profound "thank you" to the tireless individuals who inspire our students every day. It transforms our strategic vision into a tangible reality, funding crucial initiatives across the district.
➡️ GOAL: Raise $25,000 total (meaning we need to raise $12,500 from donors to hit the full $25k match!)
➡️ IMPACT: Double your investment in funding Innovative Teacher Grants, expanding resources for students, and classroom innovation.
Don't wait! Give now and double your impact—this match won't last forever!
Click here to GIVE: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/goddardpublicschools
#GivingTuesday #GIVEGRATITUDEGODDARD #GCampaign2025
Every student deserves an education tailored to their unique strengths and needs. Today we honor the dedicated special education teachers, therapists, aides, and families who work tirelessly to create inclusive learning environments where every child can thrive.
Special education isn't just about accommodations—it's about unlocking potential, celebrating differences, and ensuring no student is left behind. To all the educators making magic happen every day: thank you for your patience, creativity, and unwavering commitment. To the students: your unique perspectives make our world richer.
Let's continue building up a #265Family where every learner is valued, supported, and empowered. Happy Special Education Day!
Special education isn't just about accommodations—it's about unlocking potential, celebrating differences, and ensuring no student is left behind. To all the educators making magic happen every day: thank you for your patience, creativity, and unwavering commitment. To the students: your unique perspectives make our world richer.
Let's continue building up a #265Family where every learner is valued, supported, and empowered. Happy Special Education Day!
Did you know that part of the efforts of the Goddard Education Foundation help support the Goddard Public Schools Alumni Association (or GPSAA)? If you haven’t joined yet, and are an alumni of either Goddard High School or Eisenhower High School, sign up here: https://goddardpsks.sites.thrillshare.com/o/gef/page/alumni.
GPSAA helps reconnect relationships and reintroduce alumni to the growing #265Family! Join more than 1,000 members to stay engaged, informed, and connected to all things Goddard Public Schools. From help with coordinating class reunions to welcome-back weekends during the Roar on 54 annual football game, come back for the memories - stay for the party!
GPSAA helps reconnect relationships and reintroduce alumni to the growing #265Family! Join more than 1,000 members to stay engaged, informed, and connected to all things Goddard Public Schools. From help with coordinating class reunions to welcome-back weekends during the Roar on 54 annual football game, come back for the memories - stay for the party!
During the season of gratitude, we want to take a moment to express heartfelt thanks to all that contribute to the positive progress of Goddard Public Schools.
To our STUDENTS: Your curiosity, resilience, and growth inspire us daily. You are our WHY!
To our STAFF: Your dedication, passion, and tireless work create magic in our schools every single day. You continue to inspire the future through your work.
To our FAMILIES: Your partnership, trust, and support make our school communities stronger. We truly are BETTER TOGETHER!
To our COMMUNITY: Your commitment to education lift us all, and we can continue to work towards the mission of Goddard Public Schools - to educate all students for lifelong success.
Together, we're not just a school district - we're a #265FAMILY! Thank you for making Goddard an exceptional place to learn, grow, and thrive!
To our STUDENTS: Your curiosity, resilience, and growth inspire us daily. You are our WHY!
To our STAFF: Your dedication, passion, and tireless work create magic in our schools every single day. You continue to inspire the future through your work.
To our FAMILIES: Your partnership, trust, and support make our school communities stronger. We truly are BETTER TOGETHER!
To our COMMUNITY: Your commitment to education lift us all, and we can continue to work towards the mission of Goddard Public Schools - to educate all students for lifelong success.
Together, we're not just a school district - we're a #265FAMILY! Thank you for making Goddard an exceptional place to learn, grow, and thrive!
ATTENTION: Survey closes today!
Today is the LAST day to take our post-bond survey! Your feedback will help guide the next steps for our school district.
Click the link below to make your voice heard!
http://research.net/r/usd265
We’re grateful for your contribution to this next step, your time, and your continued support! Goddard is such a special place to call home, and we are all truly #BetterTogether
#265Family #BondFeedback #265Pride
We’re almost there — and we still want to hear from you. If you haven’t taken our short post-election survey yet, now’s the time! Your insight is critical as we work to understand the May bond election outcome, and move forward together to help shape a better tomorrow for all students, staff, and families.
Click the link below to take the survey today!
http://research.net/r/usd265
Your voice. Your feedback. Your school district.
#265Family #BondFeedback #265Pride #BetterTogether
Click the link below to take the survey today!
http://research.net/r/usd265
Your voice. Your feedback. Your school district.
#265Family #BondFeedback #265Pride #BetterTogether
