That's a wrap on another amazing school year!

To the incredible teachers, faculty, and staff that make USD 265 such an exceptional district - THANK YOU! Your dedication, creativity, and heart make Goddard Public Schools a place where students thrive. We could not do any of this without you.

And to the students and families that collectively make up our district community - thank you for your partnership, trust, and energy every single day. You make this community something truly special.

As the school year comes to a close, we reflect with gratitude on the tireless efforts of so many. We are truly better together! Wishing the entire #265Family a sensational and safe summer break!
about 2 months ago, Goddard Public Schools
GRADS
GRADS
GRAD
We made it! As our #265Family approaches the end of the school year, please remember that the LAST DAY OF SCHOOL for students is TOMORROW - Thursday, May 14th, 2026. Additionally, Friday, May 15th, 2026 will be a teacher work day. Thank you for another incredible year of growth, learning, and success!
about 2 months ago, Goddard Public Schools
Last day of school graphic
“Everybody can be great because anybody can serve.” - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Congratulations to Chase Blasi (State Senator & Kansas Senate Majority Leader, Kansas State Senator) for receiving the District Attitude Award from the USD 265 Board of Education! Blasi was nominated anonymously, and the nominator shared the following, “During his time in the legislature, Senator Blasi has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to seeking input and feedback regarding education-related legislation. Balancing the diverse needs of communities across Kansas while continuing to support a world-class public education system is no easy task. We appreciate Senator Blasi’s positive attitude, collaborative approach, and willingness to engage in thoughtful dialogue throughout his legislative service and in his current role as Senate Majority Leader. We look forward to continuing to collaborate with Senator Blasi as we work to strengthen systems of support and opportunities for all students across Kansas.”
about 2 months ago, Goddard Public Schools
Kansas State Senator & Senate Majority Leader Chase Blasi receives the District Attitude Award at the May 2026 BOE meeting
“The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” - Steve Jobs

Congratulations to Becky Steckline (2nd Grade Teacher, Apollo Elementary School) for receiving the District Attitude Award from the USD 265 Board of Education! Steckline was nominated by Travis Ford, Apollo P.E. Teacher, and Connor Christensen, Apollo Principal, who shared the following, “It is our distinct honor to nominate Becky Steckline, 2nd Grade Teacher at Apollo Elementary, for the Attitude Award. We believe Mrs. Steckline perfectly exemplifies the profound difference a positive, intentional attitude can make in the lives of students and the morale of the staff around her.

At Apollo, we begin every week with our ‘Rise and Shine’ student assembly - a time designed for school-wide connection and teacher collaboration. While the transition from assembly back to the classroom can often be a whirlwind, Becky has transformed it into a sacred moment of connection.

Travis and I have observed a heartwarming routine that Becky performs each and every week: the moment she arrives to pick up her class, she begins with the very first student in her line and personally greets and hugs every single child. As Mrs. Steckline makes her way down the row, the impact of her attitude is visible. You can see the smiles broaden and the ‘jitters’ of excitement grow as each student’s turn approaches. It is abundantly clear that her students look forward to this moment to:

Connect with their teacher on a deep, personal level. Share their weekend updates in a safe space. Receive the positive physical and emotional ‘charge’ they need to start their week on the right track.

In a fast-paced school day, it is easy to overlook the ‘small things.’ However, Becky’s commitment to this routine is a masterclass in intentionality. For those few moments, her students have nothing to worry about other than that special connection with their teacher. She ensures that before a single academic task is tackled, every child in her care knows they are seen, valued, and loved.

Becky Steckline does not just teach; she fosters a sense of belonging that sets the tone for her entire classroom. Her attitude is a gift to Apollo, and we are proud to nominate her for this well-deserved recognition.”
about 2 months ago, Goddard Public Schools
Becky Steckline receives the District Attitude Award at the May 2026 BOE meeting
“What good is an idea, if it remains an idea? Try. Experiment. Fail. Try again. Change the world.” - Simon Sinek

Congratulations to Mindy St. Peter (Project Lead The Way or PLTW Teacher, Goddard Middle School) and Bridget Vaughn (Math Teacher, Goddard Middle School) for receiving the District Attitude Award from the USD 265 Board of Education! St. Peter and Vaughn were nominated by Lisa Hogarth, GMS Principal, who shared the following, “Adding a Robotics Club to GMS was long overdue, and when Mindy St. Peter and Bridget Vaughn joined forces, they did an outstanding job leading our pilot year. They successfully advocated for the purchase of the necessary kits to launch the program while also organizing multiple fundraising efforts to cover registration fees and the 2025–2026 competition kit.

They carefully reviewed applications to form four competitive teams, supervised early morning practices, and kept parents actively engaged throughout the entire season. Despite the steep learning curve of establishing a new club, they never wavered. Because of their commitment and determination, as well as the dedication of some incredible students, GMS had two teams qualify for the state competition and one team advanced to Nationals.

Seeing the excitement and passion in the students throughout the season illustrated how much this club was needed at GMS! We are incredibly grateful to Mindy and Bridget for creating this opportunity for our students and for their unwavering dedication to making it a success.”
about 2 months ago, Goddard Public Schools
Mindy & Bridget receive the District Attitude Award at the May 2026 BOE meeting
“You may have to fight a battle more than once, to win it.” - Margaret Thatcher

Congratulations to Teresa Spencer (Speech Language Pathologist, Eisenhower Middle School) for receiving the District Attitude Award from the USD 265 Board of Education! Spencer was nominated by Deanna Ferris, Social Worker at Goddard Middle School, who shared the following, “Teresa goes above and beyond in her role as an SLP and always has for over 23 years in the district. She not only has exceptional SLP knowledge and skills, she finds unique and effective ways to provide direct services to students, as well as helping staff and families. She will help anyone and everyone, in special education or not, on her caseload or not, and she always does it with great passion and compassion! She is extremely organized, detailed, dependable and KIND, always quick to respond to any needs and treats the WHOLE person, going far beyond basic SLP services. Teresa is a team player and adds joy to her working environment. In addition, Teresa leads the EMS Circle of Friends program and weekly Lunch Bunch for ALL EMS students. She works tirelessly to teach and support students in growing their pragmatic skills that promotes inclusion, and helps them build independence, connections/friendships, self-esteem, and social skills. She has touched countless lives and is truly one of a kind!”
about 2 months ago, Goddard Public Schools
Teresa Spencer & Nick Grummer at the May 2026 USD 265 Board of Education meeting

Effective communication is vital to a thriving school district, and to each school community. Today we recognize the professionals who work behind the scenes to keep our families and community informed and connected.

Behind every newsletter, social post, emergency alert, and community update is a dedicated school communications professional working to keep families informed and connected. It's a big job, and it matters. Please help us celebrate these dedicated communication professionals today, School Communicator Day!

Thank you to all those who help tell the story of Goddard Public Schools every single day. You shine a light on the amazing things happening in our schools every day, you help connect the community to our #265Family, and your work is vital and appreciated - THANK YOU!

about 2 months ago, Goddard Public Schools
School Communicator Day - May 8th, 2026
Attention Goddard families, sports physical season is here!

Vrana Chiropractic & Homegrown Chiropractic are BOTH offering discounted sports physicals for just $25, AND during the month of May only - all proceeds benefit the Goddard Education Foundation! Get your student athlete ready for sports season, and support your local educators at the same time. It's a win-win!

Contact Vrana Chiropractic in Goddard or Homegrown Chiropractic in Wichita to schedule your appointment today!
2 months ago, Goddard Public Schools
Flyer for $25 sports physicals in May 2026 features soccer ball, tennis ball, and football. Contact info for Vrana Chiropractic (316-794-2347) or Homegrown Chiropractic (316-816-0230) to set up an appointment

Is there anything that a school nurse can’t handle?! These unsung heroes have seen it all, and are always ready to step up for the health and safety of students at all ages. Happy School Nurse Day to each of the healthcare professionals that call Goddard Public Schools home! School nurses are at the core of what we do: provide a safe, caring, and connected learning environment to educate the whole child. They bring essential care to each school building, and are there to support and ensure students are healthy, safe, and ready to learn. We are grateful for their expertise and the compassion they show to each school community.

From the entire #265Family, THANK YOU for all that you do! You care for those around you with kindness and compassion and it doesn’t go unnoticed!

2 months ago, Goddard Public Schools
School Nurse Day - May 6th, 2026 - USD 265 Goddard Public Schools, Pride. Growth. Excellence.
Happy Teacher Appreciation Day!

Goddard Public School teachers are the heartbeat of everything we do. They create magic in the classrooms and ignite the spark behind every student’s "aha" moment. To each of the educators that call Goddard home, THANK YOU for choosing to inspire the next generation and for making such a profound difference in the lives of students. You show up everyday with purpose, patience, and perseverance. You see potential in students and colleagues when they can't always see it in themselves, and you make a difference that lasts a lifetime.

We are so proud to have the best educators around. Teachers tie our #265Family together and positively impact the lives of so many, helping fulfill the mission of educating all students for lifelong success. Today (and every day), we love celebrating you!
2 months ago, Goddard Public Schools
Teacher Appreciation Day
Teacher Appreciation Day
Teacher Appreciation Day
Teacher Appreciation Day
Teacher Appreciation Day
Teacher Appreciation Day
Teacher Appreciation Day
Teacher Appreciation Day
Teacher Appreciation Day
Teacher Appreciation Day
What better time to announce good news, than Teacher Appreciation Week?! Because of the hard work and dedication of countless USD 265 educators, we are THRILLED to share that Goddard Public Schools has been named a 2025-2026 Capturing Kids' Hearts® National Showcase District…and every single one of our 12 schools has earned National Showcase School honors!

This recognition reflects the importance of something the #265Family has always practiced and prioritized: relationships. They matter and come first in our district. The Capturing Kids' Hearts framework guides staff and students to build trust, practice intentional connection, and create school environments where every child feels safe, seen, and supported. Earning this honor at the district level, with ALL schools recognized, is a testament to the collective commitment of our students, teachers, staff, and community.

Congratulations to all of the educators that this recognition belongs to, bringing this initiative to life every day in Goddard Public Schools! As we kick off TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK, feel free to give your favorite USD 265 educators a shoutout in the comments. We are so proud to be a district where relationships, care, and connectedness come first! #265Pride #265Family
2 months ago, Goddard Public Schools
We Are Celebrating Being a National Showcase District (Capturing Kids' Hearts)
To be a principal is to perform a daily masterclass in multitasking. It takes a truly remarkable person to lead a school, and our #265Family is fortunate to have some of the best! At any given moment, they serve our school communities as: visionary leaders, crisis managers, pep-talk experts, and compassionate advocates for both students and staff. They don't just run school buildings; they foster unique cultures where every student feels seen and every educator feels supported.

To all of the principals that continue to make Goddard Public Schools such a special place, THANK YOU for the early mornings, school events, late evenings, tough decisions, hallway fist bumps, and heart you pour into your school communities! You set the tone, uplift your staff, advocate for your students, and open those doors every morning with purpose and dedication. From managing the unexpected to celebrating the everyday wins, your leadership shapes our schools and our #265Family. Happy School Principal Day!
2 months ago, Goddard Public Schools
School Principal Day 2026
School Principal Day 2026
School Principal Day 2026
School Principal Day 2026
Fueling 12 schools, every day. That takes a strong team, one certainly worth celebrating. Behind every breakfast and lunch item on the menu is nourishment crafted with care from the kitchens of Goddard Public Schools. Our motivated Nutrition Services team members are at the core of what USD 265 is all about - creating a caring and connected learning environment where each student can grow and thrive. They arrive long before others and work tirelessly to fulfill the mission of fueling potential by creating delicious meals and a dining experience that allows students to be nourished, focused, and ready to learn!

They show up with a positive attitude and do so much behind the scenes to achieve successful meal preparation, service, and clean up each and every day. Please join us today, School Lunch Hero Day, in celebrating all of the cafeteria crews that fuel our #265Family!
2 months ago, Goddard Public Schools
USD 265 Nutrition Services Team
USD 265 Nutrition Services Team
USD 265 Nutrition Services Team
The Goddard Education Foundation (GEF) is only as strong as the community that surrounds it. And the Goddard community shows up consistently to support our educators, students, families, and staff year after year. The 2025-2026 GEF Business Partners have shown up in a BIG way for the thousands of students and staff of Goddard Public Schools.

A heartfelt THANK YOU to all of our sponsors this year, with a special shoutout to the returning partners whose commitment over the years truly reflects a belief in the bright future of our #265Family!

- Credit Union of America
- Lange Real Estate
- First National Bank
- Equitable Advisors
- Building Control Services (BCS)
- Phoenix Financial
- Schaefer
- Hutton Construction
- ISG Technology/Twin Valley
- Higgins Group
- Contech
- Edward Jones Financial
- Holle Homes
- Ortega Aviation
- Horace Mann Vornauf Group
- McCown Gordon Construction
- Vrana Chiropractic
- Key Construction
- and so many more!

Your investment helps fund Innovative Teacher Grants, enriches student experiences, supports early childhood education, and encourages Goddard educators all year long. We truly are BETTER TOGETHER and because of you, our students have more opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive.

Interested in partnering with the GEF? Visit: www.goddardef.org/o/gef/page/partners or call 316-794-4000 to learn more.
2 months ago, Goddard Public Schools
USD 265 Goddard Public Schools - Pride. Growth. Excellence. THANK YOU! Goddard Education Foundation - Inspiring Minds . Expanding Possibilities.
School safety on the roadway starts with this extraordinary group of professionals.

Today, we proudly celebrate our Goddard Public Schools bus drivers, the dedicated individuals who begin their days before sunrise and continue long after the final bell, safely transporting thousands of students across hundreds of miles, every single day. Their commitment, care, and consistency are what keep our #265Family moving forward.

This week gave us even more reason to celebrate.

At the Bus ROADeo competition hosted at Eisenhower High School, our drivers once again showcased their skill, precision, and professionalism, earning outstanding recognition and continuing a tradition of excellence that defines Goddard Transportation.

At the same time, something equally powerful was happening behind the scenes.

Students, educators, and community leaders from Neighbors United came together at the bus barn with a simple but meaningful mission, to say thank you. They rolled up their sleeves and cleaned every single school bus and district vehicle, honoring the drivers who serve our students day in and day out. Along the way, they also wrote handwritten notes for each driver, small gestures carrying a big message of gratitude.

It was a beautiful reminder that appreciation is not just spoken, it is shown.

To our bus drivers, THANK YOU for the miles you travel, the relationships you build, and the safety you provide. You are a vital part of our #265Family, and we are deeply grateful for you today and every day!

Please join us in thanking a bus driver!
2 months ago, Goddard Public Schools
Flyer for School Bus Driver Day, dated April 28th, 2026, features blue and yellow elements with Goddard Public Schools logo at the bottom.
A group of people in gray shirts stand together, with one person in front wearing a "#GODDARDSQUAD" shirt. The floor has a blue and white checkered pattern.
Goddard Drivers poster celebrates achievements at the regional bus rodeo. Features a large golden trophy, a school bus, and winners' names in various categories with their routes. Emphasizes excellence, safety, and upcoming state competition.
A group of smiling teens in blue "Neighbors United" shirts clean a school bus, creating an energetic, positive community service atmosphere.
A group of three, smiling, teenaged boys, in blue "Neighbors United" shirts, clean a school bus, creating an energetic, positive community service atmosphere.
The image shows a black steering wheel inside a vehicle. A white card with "Neighbors United Est. 2016" in blue text rests on the wheel, surrounded by control panels.
A person stands in the doorway of a yellow school bus with a broom, wearing gloves and smiling. The scene conveys a sense of care and responsibility.
Three smiling teenagers wearing blue "Neighbors United" T-shirts stand inside a school bus. They convey a sense of teamwork and community spirit.
Two people smile inside a school bus, wearing blue "Neighbors United" T-shirts. One holds a cleaning cloth, suggesting teamwork and community spirit.
A person with curly hair, wearing a blue "Neighbors" shirt, writes on a notepad inside a school bus. They appear focused and content.

Dear Goddard Public Schools Staff and Families,

Neighbors United Goddard is happening tomorrow, Saturday, April 25, 2026, and we would love for you to be part of this incredible day of service and community connection.

We are still looking for volunteers to join us. Registration will take place at the Goddard District Stadium from 7:00 to 7:30 a.m., and there are still plenty of project sites available for individuals and families to serve together. Click below for more details:

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1499152881939945

Volunteers can expect a meaningful and fun experience, along with a free event t-shirt, breakfast, and lunch. Whether you come on your own or bring the whole family, this is a great opportunity to give back while spending time together in service to our community.

In addition to volunteer projects, there are two special opportunities taking place at the Goddard Linear Park Pavilion, 108 N. Main Street:

Plant and Seed Swap Event, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Bring a piece of your garden to share, such as plant cuttings, divided perennials, seeds, or small garden items. Participants can drop off items as early as 8:00 a.m. and then “shop” beginning at 10:00 a.m. It is a fun and simple way to trade plants and grow something new while connecting with others in the community. In addition, students from the Goddard High School Ecology and Biology programs, under the leadership of teacher Darcie Lowry, have cultivated 100 indoor houseplant starter kits that will be given away to community members who stop by. This work is an extension of a Goddard Education Foundation Innovative Teacher Grant, bringing classroom learning to life while giving back to the community in a meaningful way. CLICK HERE for more details:

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1784640216043365

Sports Equipment Donation and Pickup
Drop off gently used sports equipment between 7:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. Families in need are invited to pick up equipment from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. All remaining donated items will go back into our community through local junior league programs, helping ensure every child has access to the equipment they need to participate. A special thank you to the Summer Ball Showdown for coordinating this opportunity. Click below for more details:

https://www.facebook.com/reel/2189421978525736

We encourage everyone to follow the Neighbors United Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/NeighborsUnitedGoddard for updates. In the event of severe or dangerous weather, any cancellation will be announced by 7:00 a.m. If the event has already begun and conditions change, volunteers will be safely dismissed and further communication will be provided.

Thank you for continuing to make Goddard Public Schools such a strong and caring community.

2 months ago, Goddard Public Schools
neighbors united
Exciting new opportunity! Goddard Public Schools is searching for a Health and Wellness Facilitator for the 2026-27 school year, a brand-new role in our district. In this position, you will bridge the gap between our schools and community health agencies, provide high-quality healthcare to students, and collaborate with staff and families to keep our #265Family healthy and thriving. Qualifications below!

Current Kansas RN License
BSN Degree
2+ Years Pediatric or School Nursing Experience Preferred
Current CPR/AED/First Aid Certification

Enjoy the suburban, small town, family feel - all with the amenities of Wichita right in reach. Click the link below to apply today, position open until filled! Questions? Reach out to Scott May at scottmay@goddardusd.com or 316-794-4000.

https://www.applitrack.com/goddardusd/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=Health+Services&AppliTrackJobId=1807&AppliTrackLayoutMode=detail&AppliTrackViewPosting=1
2 months ago, Goddard Public Schools
Hiring ad for Health & Wellness Facilitator at Goddard Public Schools, USD 265. Includes QR code to apply, contact info, and job benefits.
Today we're shining a spotlight on the incredible administrative professionals across Goddard Public Schools — the heartbeat of our buildings and offices! From answering every call and greeting every family at the door, to keeping our schools organized and running smoothly, these dedicated individuals do it all with grace and a smile.

We are so fortunate to have you in our #265Family. Happy Administrative Professionals Day, YOU are truly appreciated!
3 months ago, Goddard Public Schools
Administrative Professionals Day - April 22nd, 2026
This week, we're celebrating the incredible volunteers who make school communities come alive - the volunteers! From PTOs and Booster Clubs, to Site Councils and everything in between, our parent and community volunteers give their time, talents, and energy to make our schools better and better, and the #265Family would not be the same without you. One day they’re organizing a fundraiser, the next they’re cheering from the stands, and they make a difference and create ongoing positive impact - even if it’s sometimes behind the scenes. Thank YOU all for investing in our students and schools!
3 months ago, Goddard Public Schools
Public School Volunteer Week, April 20th - 24th, 2026
The countdown to the 2026-2027 school year is on, and we can't wait to welcome new members to the #265Family! Goddard Public Schools has curated an exciting lineup of events designed especially for families who are NEW to the district. From Family Tour Days in May and June, to each school’s own New Family Welcome events on July 30th, these are sure to make you feel welcomed and right at home.

Find more details and sign up using the link below! Whether your child is starting kindergarten or transferring in as a senior, there's something for every family and every stage of the educational journey. Online enrollment for new students opened April 10th, and you can email questions to enrollment@goddardusd.com. Mark your calendars for more than just the first day of school on August 10th! Full event details & registration, under New Family Engagement Events: https://www.goddardusd.com/o/gps/page/enrollment-26-27-plus.
3 months ago, Goddard Public Schools
Goddard Public Schools flyer for new families. Main event: New Family Welcome on July 30th, 2026. Enrollment deadline: July 31st. Includes QR code, contact details, and Family Tour Days on May 13th and June 2nd.