Life has a way of throwing curveballs when we least expect them. The plans we make can shift without warning, and challenges often arrive uninvited. Still, it’s not the setbacks that define us — it’s our resilience in the face of them. How we respond is what matters more.

As you know, we faced unexpected challenges after the torrential rain on Sept. 21 flooded the Performing Arts Center and the band and choir rooms. This forced us to relocate classes, adjust routines and — perhaps hardest of all — tell students preparing to present “Once Upon a Mattress” in November that their performance would be delayed indefinitely.

But in a week that brought plenty of hard knocks, something else stood out even more: the incredible resilience of our staff and students.

Without hesitation, teachers and staff showed up that Sunday after the storm to begin cleanup and tackle the challenges ahead. Over the following days, staff and students alike were flexible, selfless and patient. They stayed positive through every disruption, willing to adapt and determined to make the best of whatever they had.

We also owe a huge thank you to the team from Phoenix Renovation and Restoration. There is still work to complete, but progress continues each day. We are also exploring new performance options and dates for our musical cast and crew — the show will go on!

Looking back over the past several weeks, there is still so much good news to celebrate:

• Homecoming was a huge success, from float decorating and the parade to a big Bearcat football win, royalty and a fun dance Friday night.

• Fire Safety Week saw the Ellsworth Fire Department engaging our kindergarten through sixth grade students in exciting hands-on learning. Students practiced crawling under smoke, watched demonstrations and even saw a teacher climb the fire truck ladder!

• We are thrilled to begin sharing stories of Ellsworth Jr./Sr. High School graduates and alumni of all ages on our Facebook page. If you or someone you know would like to be featured, please complete this short form: https://forms.gle/ qB52BM93PMx41NS48. Help us spread the word!

• On Oct. 15, we welcomed special speaker John Calvert, Director of the Safe and Secure Schools Unit at the Kansas Department of Education, who shared powerful messages with Kanopolis Middle School and EJSHS students about making good choices, staying safe online and supporting friends.

• Thanks to the irresistible incentive of throwing a pie in the principal’s (or superintendent’s) face, the FFA’s Pink Out Week fundraiser for cancer charities was a huge success, raising more than $2,200!

It’s remarkable to look back over the ups and downs of the past month. The frustrations and disappointments we encountered feel small compared to what we accomplished together by focusing on our students. I am grateful beyond words for the commitment, understanding and hope shown by everyone as we cared for one another and moved forward.

This month also brings a personal note I wish to share. After much reflection, I have announced my plans to retire at the conclusion of this school year.

It has truly been the honor of a lifetime to serve the students, staff, and families of USD 327. While June may seem far away, there is still much to accomplish together, and I remain as inspired as ever by the important work that lies ahead.

Each day continues to remind me why our district’s motto rings so true: we are Better Together, Striving for Excellence.

Deena Hilbig is the superintendent of USD 327. She can be reached at 785-4725561.