As 2023 keeps moving at what seems like a record pace, I continue to be proud of the work I am seeing by our teachers, staff and students.

Our schools and classrooms are full of great learning — a sight that makes me happy and so very proud to be a part of USD 327.

I also loved seeing the Valentine’s Day traditions in our schools. It’s obvious how special the class parties and special activities are to our students, and it’s a real credit to our teachers and staff for the work they do to create good memories yearafter- year. And, of course, all the excitement leading up to the Super Bowl created countless opportunities for photos and fun for students (and Chiefs fans) across the district.

February is the shortest month of the year, but that doesn’t slow down our work to serve the students and families of Ellsworth, Kanopolis and Geneseo, and that includes working with the elected officials in Topeka to generate and continue support for our local schools and communities. The legislative session in Kansas began in January, and I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to travel to Topeka and collaborate with Representative Troy Waymaster. I have also attended legislative events which involved Representatives Susan Concannon and Steven Howe as well as Senator Elaine Bowers. These individuals have been welcoming, and they always enjoy hearing about the great things going on in our school district.

One issue we’ve discussed is special education funding. If the legislature is willing to fully fund special education as required by law, it will free up budget dollars we can invest in programs and activities that benefit all kids in our schools, both special and regular education students. This is an issue that has support from school districts across the state and legislators on both sides of the aisle.

When I visit with legislators, I often hear comments about how much they appreciate hearing from the constituents — perhaps someone besides the school superintendent — every so often. It wasn’t that long ago I was unsure how or why to contact elected officials, but I’ve learned since then it’s easier than I thought.

In fact, it takes very little time at all to drop an elected official a short email or note in the mail, and there is no shortage of good news to share about our schools and community. Here are three brag-worthy successes, but talk to any teacher, student or family and you’re bound to hear more.

• We are ramping up support for career and technical education with a new CTE/Career Pathway Coordinator. In addition to supporting EJSHS students in career pathways, Karl Dawn Stover will be working with local businesses and community members to create new pathway programs. This means more opportunities for students and future graduates and economic benefits for our area.

• We welcomed the VFW to help teach our youngest students respect for the American flag. We appreciate the veterans who showed our Bear Cubs lessons in proper flag etiquette that they’re sure to appreciate for years to come.

• Our Scholars Bowl team is the 3A regional champion!

The team went 5-0 in the finals and competed at state where they placed fifth in pool play.

• Our FFA program was recently named district champion for employability skills LDE and public speaking. With 30 FFA programs competing, this was quite an accomplishment!

I want to sincerely thank you for helping spread the word about the good things happening in USD 327, and I hope you’ll come out soon to cheer on our girls and boys in basketball and wrestling before the winter sports season wraps up in March. Go Bearcats!

Deena Hilbig is the superintendent of USD 327. She can be reached at (785) 472-5561.