Happy April! It always seems that the time after spring break just flies by, but it’s a wonderful time of year in our schools. From field trips and track meets to celebrations and a new class of Ellis High School graduates, this season is sure to leave lasting memories across our community.
Here are just a few examples of good news from the last few weeks…
• Brandon Armbruster was named the by the Kansas Wrestling Coaches Association 3-2- 1A Junior High Wrestling Coach of the Year.
• Thanks to Washington Grade School PTO for a great Bingo Night, and for helping spearhead an art festival for the entire community! Justin Longbine and his art students did a fabulous job — thanks to all the community helpers and alumni for making it a success!
• EHS journalism students took third overall at the Kansas Scholastic Press Association regional competition. Congratulations to seniors Payten Burd, Sienna Schmidt, Avery Boydston, Elie Brull, Leah Reed and Raegan Jimenez; Juniors, Madison Birdsong, Maggie Fitzgerald, Evelyn Merriman and Jocelyn Eck; as well as sophomores Emma Downing and Lyla Richards.
• Our 2025-26 cheerleaders have been selected! Congratulations to seniors Payton Burd, Raegan Jimenez, Leah Reed, Kinzie Sunley and Sienna Schmidt; junior Jersee Fabrizius; sophomores Dora Bencze, Haylee Comer, Mackinley Rhoden and Lyla Richards; and freshmen, Nora Andrews, Maggie Downing and Addalyn Hass.
• Congratulations to All League honors; Natalee North (2nd team) and Isabella Eck (2nd Team), Jaren Frickey (1st Team) and Aiden Aschenbrenner (Honorable mention)
• Our senior class attended a luncheon and meeting of the Rotary Club. This annual tradition helps young people gain insight into the role of civic organizations. Thank you to the Rotary for their invaluable partnership and work to foster the next generation of civic-minded leaders.
Speaking of the senior class, a few weeks ago it was exciting to see our seniors receive their graduation caps and gowns. Moments like this become symbolic for much more than meets the eye. For the Class of 2025, there are still many unknowns, whether decisions about career and college, uncertainty about moving or even just conflicted emotions about finishing high school. Graduation is May 10th at 2:00 pm at the HS gym.
I still remember the years when my kids were high school seniors — realizing that even the kids who seemed to have clear plans felt quietly nervous about the unknowns ahead. Looking back, I’ve also gained the perspective that there is more in this season than just unknowns.
To the Class of 2025 and their families: I hope you will focus on what we know about our schools and our community. Wherever life takes you — whether near or far — you will always have a home in Ellis. You will be known by your classmates, always. And you will benefit from our truly incredible alumni association and museum, offering you meaningful connection for the rest of your life.
I hope all graduates, past and present, will keep Memorial Day weekend open for class reunions every five years. Be sure to follow the Ellis Alumni on Facebook or check the district website for updates on reunions in the years to come. As a graduate myself EHS Class of 1987, I know it’s odd when you’re 18 to picture a five-year reunion — or a 50-year reunion. But it’s worth making a priority because there’s not much that matters more in life than making time for the people you know and love. We will always be Railroaders.
Finally, I want to again thank our school board members for their hard work on the strategic plan and their discernment before voting on allowing sixth graders to participate in certain sports. If you have questions about these items — or anything else — please contact me or anyone on our board. The best results come from working together for the benefit of our students and the future of our community. Thank you for the role you play!
Janice Wilson, Superintendent