Looking around our community, there is no doubt about it — fall is here, bringing with it a season to reflect on the countless reasons we have to give thanks. When I consider the opportunity to be part of Ellis and USD 388, I can’t help but be grateful. Whether it’s a big moment when our community gathers to support our students or a quiet interaction in a classroom or hallway, I never have to look far to feel thankful.
I’m pleased to announce that the new EHS print shop business is up and running — and ready to serve the community! Recently, this school year, the district took over a local t-shirt business, and it’s been exciting to see our art and business teachers, as well as students, get things moving. As it increases operation, the shop will provide valuable learning opportunities to students, as well as a local option for community printing needs. This was all made possible, thanks to a grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation and the support of the school board to help buy equipment.
Here a few more highlights that inspire my gratitude right now:
- We welcomed many veterans and other residents of Ellis who joined us at Ellis High School for our Veterans Day program on November 11th. Our nation, state and community are better, thanks to the sacrifice of our military veterans.
- The school district was recognized by the Kansas Department of Education for postsecondary success. The Copper Award we received reflects the hard work of our staff to challenge and equip students to earn an industry-recognized certification, college degree or continue education for two or more years after graduating from EHS. Congratulations to our educators and students for this recognition!
- Our student athletes have done a great job this fall. In our first year of 8-man football, we have a record of 5 and 4, our volleyball team went 19-16, Journalism received the National Yearbook Program of Excellence Award, and Avery Boydston, brought home the title of 1 A Cross Country state champion! All activities have proudly represented our school and community.
- Progress continues on a new child care facility project for our community that the school district and the Child Care Coalition is leading. I’m excited to share more details in next month’s column.
Finally, I’m excited to share that the Ellis Board of Education has begun the work to create a new strategic plan for our district after the previous plan ended last year. We began this process in late October by inviting employees, families and the community to provide feedback in a survey. These insights are incredibly valuable as we create this plan to guide our work for the next three to five years. I want to thank the [hundreds] of people who completed the survey. If you missed the survey, please email me at jwilson@usd388.com. I’m glad to share the questions and include your perspective in our work.
A great strategic reflects the community’s needs and desires, and it provides much-needed direction for decisions and investments. As a small district, it’s critical that we align our resources and budget to clear, measurable goals. Our new plan and its goals will become the lens that our board and district team will use to make responsible decisions that maximize student opportunities and success.
Thank you for your investment in Ellis School District. We have so many wonderful reasons to be thankful — and working together we can continue to create the brightest future for our students and our town.