The “magic” of USD 265 doesn’t just happen in one place, it happens in our classrooms, hallways, kitchens, and on our buses. The Goddard Education Foundation, alongside our Legacy Partners at Lange Real Estate, was thrilled to present the #265Family Award to 15 outstanding staff members who embody the spirit of our District and lead with heart every single day.
Today, we are proud to recognize our winner from Explorer Elementary: Danielle Vequist
"If you've been blessed to work with Danielle you will know how passionate she is about her profession and the kiddos/family's she serves. Not only does she go above and beyond to make those connections with staff, students and their families while at work, but she does so outside of the school setting as well. Danielle can be found spending time cultivating those relationships outside of the work setting as she is queen of organizing/hosting get togethers with her vast groups of work colleagues. Danielle is one to make others feel at home, their voice heard, and that we can truly all make a difference in children's lives. Danielle wears many hats both at work, at the state level and at home; she beautifully melds these together to advocate for the students she so fervently serves. Danielle's service to our #265 district family is irreplaceable."
- Geri Beatty, Co-Worker
This celebration is made possible by Lange Real Estate. Their commitment to recognizing the vital role our staff plays in creating a thriving learning environment ensures our #265Family Heroes feel seen and valued.
In USD 265 we don’t just work together, we lift each other up. Congratulations Mrs. Vequist for proving that we truly are #BetterTogether!
To nominate a staff member for the #265Family Award visit - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfqBYiNp1_fBQ0Mhx_qC5-usWNmkBSCI5eF9Lgui-2ipsJxdw/viewform?usp=publish-editor
To learn more about how Lange Real Estate serves our #265Family visit - https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1DCFEnmZU4/
Multiplying Potential: The GHS Math Challenge
For many young students, a high school building can feel intimidating. But for a group of third through eighth-grade USD 265 students, math teacher at Goddard High School Joel Burgeson’s innovative GHS Math Challenge is creating an avenue for excitement, belonging, and highlighting academic success.
The idea sparked after the GHS Math Club competed in regional college math relays during the 2024-2025 school year. Seeing how much his high schoolers benefited from the STEM-focused environment, Mr. Burgeson, with the help of his Math Club students, designed a localized event to “spark and maintain interest in mathematics” for younger USD 265 students, giving them an opportunity to experience their own math competition.
During the half-day event on May 7th , 161 top-performing math students (approximately 20 students from each K-8th school) got to take part in a brief math lesson, tackled problems aligned with Kansas Math Standards, completed group mathematical activities, and toured Project Lead the Way labs and math classrooms at Goddard High School; finishing off their field trip with lunch alongside GHS Math Club high schoolers. Elementary teachers praised the event, noting “it was so nice to have an extra incentive that motivated students at the end of the school year and celebrated our top math performers with a fun challenge.”
Beyond test scores, this program builds mathematical confidence in our younger USD 265 students. In fact, freshmen who previously experienced the challenge shared that being in the building made them feel “ more confident that they were prepared to make the transition from middle school to high school.”
“Improving student participation in math and other STEM disciplines was the focus of the GHS Math Challenge,” shares Mr. Burgeson. “Increased effort and math achievement will be the immediate measure that students are learning. Looking forward, this Innovative Teacher Grant provides a powerful investment to expand the program to host even more students from across the District in the future. What do you call that kind of District-Wide dedication to STEM? As Mr. Burgeson puts it: “Answer = SUCCESS!”
Thank you Goddard Education Foundation for helping multiply potential for our #265Family!
The Goddard Education Foundation is excited to introduce the Goddard Public Schools Hall of Fame Class of 2026!
Established in 2018, the Hall of Fame celebrates, honors, and recognizes the extraordinary service, success, and achievements of our alumni, retired staff, and dedicated friends of education.
Join us in celebrating the Class of 2026:
* Dan Buchanan, Former Educator & Coach
* Dr. Mary Cohen (Shinogle), Goddard High School Class of 1986
* Jerry Longabaugh, Former Educator, Administrator, and Current USD 265 Board of Education Representative
* Dr. Christopher Warren, Goddard High School Class of 1992
* Dr. Michael Vivion, Goddard High School Class of 1962
Save the Date!
Please join us on September 18, 2026, to celebrate the Class of 2026.
Keep an eye out for event details, registration opens in July.
Stay tuned as we highlight each of our individual inductees in the coming weeks. Let's join together to celebrate the past and inspire the future of Goddard Public Schools.
Learn more about the Goddard Hall of Fame and read about past Honorees HERE or https://www.goddardef.org/o/gef/page/hall-of-fame .
For first- year Kindergarten teacher Hannah Moncada, the classroom at Explorer Elementary is more than just four walls, it is a launchpad. But she noticed a common hurdle among her class: many of her students were beginning their academic journey with limited exposure to the foundational building blocks of ready and math.
“I have seen how much my students enjoy hands-on activities,” Moncada shared in her grant application. “They are more engaged and retain more information when they are able to move and manipulate materials.”
Driven by a desire to bridge this gap, Hannah submitted an Innovative Teacher Grant for specialized ELA and Math activity centers. Thanks to the generosity of Goddard Education Foundation (GEF) donors, her vision for an engaging tactile classroom was fully funded.
With the reading and math activity centers, Hannah is moving beyond traditional pencil and paper tasks. These resources ensure students aren’t just memorizing, but truly mastering the materials.
The GEF’s investment in Ms. Moncada’s classroom extends far beyond a single school year. While these resources have helped her current students bridge the gap, these materials are built to last for the next generation of Explorers.
“These materials will be used for years to come. They will benefit not only my current students but also future Explorer students,” shared Moncada.
By partnering with educators like Hannah Moncada, the GEF is doing more than just purchasing supplies; they are building a foundation of confidence and curiosity. Because of this grant, young learners are getting the hands-on tools they need to thrive.
Today we celebrate an incredible leader who truly makes a difference every single day. Thank you for always having our backs and for going above and beyond for both students and staff. Your hard work never goes unnoticed.
We appreciate your approachable, down-to-earth nature and the way you genuinely listen to ideas and concerns. Your passion for education and your commitment to innovation have transformed our school in such positive ways.
Your leadership inspires us all—thank you for everything you do!
Quick Reads, Big Impact: Meet Explorer Elementary’s Newest Library Addition
Walking into a library can be a daunting experience for a young reader. For some, the jump from colorful picture books to dense chapter books feels like a big step. At Explorer Elementary, Librarian Tammy Spencer is launching a new initiative to ensure no student feels behind on that journey.
The Quick Reads project, funded with the help of a Goddard Education Foundation Innovative Teacher Grant, is a strategic “bridge” to help turn reluctant readers into confident bookworms.
Quick Reads are short, high-interest books designed to increase reading and confidence. These aren’t just shorter books; they’re engaging fast-paced stories with bold print and frequent illustrations, perfect for students who need to build their reading stamina.
“I am committed to fostering a love of reading and ensuring all students have access to materials that support literacy development,” shared Mrs. Spencer. “The new Quick Reads book section is specifically designed to engage students in shorter chapters, more illustrations to help build confidence, fluency, and comprehension skills.”
Innovation isn’t just about the books; it’s about the experience. This Innovative Teacher grant not only funded new Quick Reads books but also dynamic, rotating display cases that move these titles off traditional shelves and into the spotlight. The rotating cases mimic a bookstore’s “Featured” section, making it easy for students to grab-and-go, and is already proving to be highly popular among students.
“With these books, I can ensure that every student has access to books that meet them where they are and inspire them to be lifelong readers,” shares Mrs. Spencer. With over 400 students impacted, Explorer Elementary’s library is building a foundation for lifelong learning. The Quick Reads collection will serve as an essential tool, ensuring every student who walks into the library walks out with a book they feel empowered to read.
Thank you Goddard Education Foundation for helping support the Explorer Elementary Library!
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.
Beyond the Numbers: How Kindergarten Explorers are Building Math Success
At Explorer Elementary, Taylor Graber’s kindergarten classroom is buzzing with a new kind of energy. Through her Innovative Teacher Grant, funded by the Goddard Education Foundation, Mrs. Graber is redefining math time. By replacing traditional drills with structured, tactile play, she is ensuring her students develop a deeper, more intuitive understanding of mathematical concepts.
“In kindergarten, most of my students are kinesthetic learners. Having hands-on activities allows students to get up, move, and learn through direct experiences,” Mrs. Graber explains. “With these new resources, students will practice counting, recognizing numbers, identifying shapes, and understanding basic addition and subtraction problems.”
The impact, however, stretches far beyond math stations. As students manipulate small objects like nuts, bolts, and locks, they are refining their fine motor skills and navigating social-emotional opportunities like teamwork, sharing, and collective problem-solving.
By investing in these resources, the Goddard Education Foundation is helping Mrs. Graber build a rock-solid foundation that these students will carry with them as they promote to higher grades. This project ensures that for these young Explorer students, math isn’t just a subject they study, it’s a world they can touch, build, and successfully navigate.
Thank you Goddard Education Foundation for helping ensure our youngest learners aren’t just learning numbers; they are learning how to be confident learners for life.
Event Details:
Goddard High School (GHS)
Monday, April 13th
1:00 - 1:30 p.m.
Goddard High School Parking Lot
Eisenhower High School (EHS)
Thursday, April 16th
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Eisenhower High School Parking Lot
During these times, community members in the area may notice a significant presence of emergency vehicles, including police, fire, and other first responders, with active lights and sirens. This activity is part of a planned simulation and training exercise.
We want to reassure our community that these events are fully coordinated, controlled, and focused on student education. There is no active emergency, and students and staff are not in any danger. We’d like to additionally take this opportunity to express our gratitude to all of the agencies involved in bringing this experience to our school communities:
D.U.I Victims Center of Kansas
Garden Plain Police Department
Kansas Highway Patrol
Sedgwick County Sheriff's Department
Sedgwick County Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
Wichita Fire Department
Wichita State University Police
USD 265 School Police
USD 265 Transportation
We appreciate your understanding and support as we work together with our community partners to provide meaningful learning experiences that help keep our students safe. Thank you for your continued partnership in supporting the well-being of our students and schools!
#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
THANK YOU, Goddard Public Schools Maintenance Team!
While most of the community was staying warm inside, this incredible maintenance team was outside doing the hard work that makes a safe return to school possible.
On Sunday, January 25th, and again early Monday morning, January 26th, the USD 265 Facilities, Maintenance & Operations staff were out across the district clearing snow from parking lots, driveways, sidewalks, and entrances, ensuring school buildings are safe and accessible for students, staff, and families.
These moments from Clark Davidson Elementary School, Discovery Intermediate School, and Challenger Intermediate School are a snapshot of the pride, grit, and dedication behind the scenes. Snow storms do not stop this team from showing up, problem solving, and taking care of our schools.
Their work may happen before sunrise and behind the scenes, but its impact is felt by every student and staff member who walks through our doors. Thank you for going above and beyond for our #265Family!
Educator Spotlight Alert!
This month, we're thrilled to continue our Educator Spotlight series dedicated to celebrating the heart and soul of our district. As we celebrate them, you can show your gratitude to through the GIVE. GRATITUDE. GODDARD Campaign.
This educator’s story reflects what makes Goddard a family: heart, purpose, and a deep commitment to students. Your year-end gift, matched dollar-for-dollar up to $25,000, fuels more teachers’ stories just like Mrs. Whelan's
Give. Gratitude. Goddard.
Donate now: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/goddardpublicschools/?blm_aid=71680
🎉 HUGE CONGRATULATIONS! 🎉
We are thrilled to announce that 30 Innovative Teacher Grants were awarded to dedicated USD 265 educators across the District on Friday, December 5th, 2025! Here is just a sneak peak of some of the grants awarded. Visit https://www.facebook.com/goddardef to see pictures of all the Educators who received this year's Innovative Teacher Grants.
These grants will fund innovative projects, purchase cutting-edge resources, and create inspiring learning experiences for our USD 265 students. From STEM equipment to enhanced literacy materials, our teachers are bringing innovation into the classroom!
The Innovative Teacher Grant program is a direct result of the support generated throughout the year. The GIVE. GRATITUDE. GODDARD. campaign is one of the ways the GEF is able to raise funds that invest in the future of our students and the passion of our educators.
Let's celebrate these teachers and the amazing work they do every day!
DOUBLE YOUR IMPACT!
Your generosity sparks innovation in classrooms just like this year's Innovative Teacher Grant Recipients. And right now, every gift to the Goddard Education Foundation is doubled thanks to a $25,000 matching opportunity.
There’s never been a more powerful moment to Give. Gratitude. Goddard.
➡️ Give today: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/goddardpublicschools/?blm_aid=71680
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
The Goddard Education Foundation is looking for all the “G’s” out there for our inaugural G-Day event!
This event is for all the “G’s” in our community: Grandparents, Golden-Agers, or anyone who is simply a Grand and Generous person who wants to give back to the next generation of students. We invite you to join us for a morning dedicated to remembering and experiencing all the amazing things that happen in elementary classrooms. This is more than just a volunteer event; it’s a celebration of generations and a chance to forge new relationships.
Goddard Public Schools will be featuring two of our Elementary Schools, Explorer Elementary and Amelia Earhart Elementary, for these Inaugural G-Day events. The dates are:
- Tuesday, October 21st, 2025 from 8:15 am - 12:00 pm at Explorer Elementary School
- Wednesday, October 22nd, 2025 from 8:15 am - 12:00 pm at Amelia Earhart Elementary School
Please share this with a Grandparent, Neighbor, Community Patron, or friend who might enjoy learning more about Goddard Public Schools.
To Register:
The safety of our students and staff is our top priority, with that in mind, there are only 20 available G-Day participant spots (10 for each elementary school). Interested G-Day participants can complete the application form by clicking the link below by the end of the day on Monday, October 13, 2025, and a representative from the Goddard Education Foundation will be in touch with you. Any interested G-Day representative must meet all the eligibility requirements (listed in the registration form) to be considered for G-Day.
Register Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfUnhhEx28OQ9YJCj3dmcF4BHpPzV9sDTw6dTjWr6lsk4dKlw/viewform?usp=header
We hope you'll help us celebrate and honor the many "G's" who make our community strong. Thank you for supporting Goddard Public Schools. We look forward to welcoming our guests at G-Day!
Enjoy yard games, inflatables, limbo, and tug-o-war. 💲Food trucks (Hot 2 Trot, Cheezepanze, Mrs. Coles), 💲Raffles, and the 💲Splash Tower (soak your favorite staff!) will also be available.
✨ This free event is open to all—mark your calendars and don’t miss the fun!
More details to come over the next couple of weeks!
Don't miss your chance! Registration for Explorer's Girls on the Run is still OPEN!
Girls on the Run is an after-school youth development program for 3rd and 4th-grade girls. The GOTR mission is to inspire girls to be joyful, healthy, and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum that creatively integrates movement. Through thought-provoking discussion and fun activities, Girls on the Run uplifts and empowers girls in our community and prepares them to become the leaders of tomorrow. Starting the week of September 22, 2025, the team will meet every Tuesday & Thursday from 4:15 PM - 5:45 PM. The program culminates in a celebratory 5K at the end of the season! The registration fee ranges from $25- $160. If your daughter qualifies for free lunch, the fee is $25. If your daughter qualifies for reduced lunch, the fee is $35. If you do not qualify for free or reduced lunch, financial assistance is available based on household income & size. We will never turn a girl away because of financial hardship! Registration can be found at: www.girlsontherunks.org. Team sizes are limited, and registration is first-come, first-served. If you have questions, please contact Kari Vermillion at kvermillion@goddardusd.com
Her visionary project is establishing a Universally Designed Sensory School Garden Program - a vibrant, inclusive space where all Explorer Elementary students can flourish. This isn’t just any garden; it’s a living classroom designed to engage all five senses (sight, smell, sound, touch, taste) and promote development milestones for Life Skills students at Explorer Elementary.
The garden will provide incredible opportunities for Life Skills students to:
-Enhance physical development: Improving grip strength, fine motor skills, functional reach, and even serving as a fun motivator for students working on standing or strengthening goals.
-Boost cognitive skills: Studies show nature exposure improves working memory, attention, and reduces stress.
-Nurture psychosocial development: Building relationships and fostering community through group interactions and shared goals.
“The idea is that this is a sensory garden for the whole school to enjoy, but for our students in the Life Skills classroom, it's a fun way for them to work on functional goals and activities of daily living,” shared Mrs. Coakley. “It gives them accessibility to everyday activities that other kids experience, and for the whole school, it brings enrichment and community.”
The accessible design of these planters, ensures students with physical or cognitive disabilities can fully participate. Life Skills students got to take part in planting fragrant herbs like Chocolate Mint, Lemon Balm, and Lavender. This hands-on experience brings smiles to students’ faces, impacting their entire day.
A special thank you to the Explorer Elementary ‘Fix It Club’ led by Mrs. Haney, Project Lead the Way Teacher. The ‘Fix It Club’ along with the Goddard USD Maintenance Department worked together in assembling the accessible garden beds, turning this project into a District-Wide community effort.
Thank you, Mrs. Coakley, for establishing this incredible space that nurtures every student’s potential. We can’t wait to see all the amazing ways the Explorer students GROW!
Learn more about past Innovative Teacher Grants and how you can support future grants at https://goddardpsks.sites.thrillshare.com/o/gef/page/teacher-grants
