The McPherson Chamber of Commerce Ag Committee is proud to announce that Karson Schierling, a graduate of Inman High School, has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Agriculture Future of America (AFA) Scholarship for McPherson County. This scholarship is made possible through the Ag Committee’s partnership with AFA, an organization dedicated to cultivating the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Since 2000, the McPherson Chamber of Commerce Ag Committee has actively raised funds to support local students in their pursuit of higher education in agriculture-related fields. To date, they have awarded 37 full scholarships, helping young leaders build a strong foundation for their careers. The scholarship is open to high school graduates and college undergraduates pursuing a four-year degree in agriculture and related programs.

Karson has demonstrated exceptional dedication to agriculture and leadership, balancing his academic and extracurricular activities with work on the family farm. He assists his family in the operation of a wholesale and retail beef business, has served as an officer in FFA, and has been involved in the trap shooting team, Inman film crew, scholars bowl team, as well as playing football, baseball, and golf. Additionally, he is a founding member of the IHS BBQ Club. This fall, Karson will begin his journey at Kansas State University, where he will major in Agribusiness.

As part of his scholarship, Karson will receive $3,200 toward tuition, fees, and books, along with fully funded participation in the AFA Leaders Conference, scheduled for November 6-9, 2025, in Kansas City, Missouri—an additional value of $1,250.

Elizabeth Banuelos, a McPherson High School graduate, has been awarded a Leaders Conference Scholarship and will be attending the AFA Leadership Conference. Elizabeth plans to attend Kansas State University to pursue studies in Agronomy, Horticulture, and Business Administration.

The AFA Leaders Conference is a premier leadership development experience designed to bridge the gap between college and career for undergraduate students studying agriculture and food systems. Through this transformative program, students will build essential skills in relationship development, systems thinking, collaboration, cultural and interpersonal intelligence, and career management.

Karson and Elizabeth exemplify the hard work, dedication, and innovation that the McPherson Chamber of Commerce Ag Committee strives to support through its ongoing partnership with AFA. Their passion for agriculture and commitment to leadership reflect the values at the heart of this scholarship program.

For more information about AFA, visit www.agfuture.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747682059067.png" alt="Karson Schierling (Left) and&nbsp;Elizabeth Banuelos (Right) received prestigious ag scholarships from the McPherson Chamber of Commerce - Photo courtesy McPherson Chamber of Commerce" />
 <figcaption>Karson Schierling (Left) and&nbsp;Elizabeth Banuelos (Right) received prestigious ag scholarships from the McPherson Chamber of Commerce - Photo courtesy McPherson Chamber of Commerce</figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON CHAMBER OF COMMERCEThe McPherson Chamber of Commerce Ag Committee is proud to announce that Karson Schierling, a graduate of Inman High School, has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Agriculture Future of America (AFA) Scholarship for McPherson County. This scholarship is made possible through the Ag Committee’s partnership with AFA, an organization dedicated to cultivating the next generation of agricultural leaders.Since 2000, the McPherson Chamber of Commerce Ag Committee has actively raised funds to support local students in their pursuit of higher education in agriculture-related fields. To date, they have awarded 37 full scholarships, helping young leaders build a strong foundation for their careers. The scholarship is open to high school graduates and college undergraduates pursuing a four-year degree in agriculture and related programs.Karson has demonstrated exceptional dedication to agriculture and leadership, balancing his academic and extracurricular activities with work on the family farm. He assists his family in the operation of a wholesale and retail beef business, has served as an officer in FFA, and has been involved in the trap shooting team, Inman film crew, scholars bowl team, as well as playing football, baseball, and golf. Additionally, he is a founding member of the IHS BBQ Club. This fall, Karson will begin his journey at Kansas State University, where he will major in Agribusiness.As part of his scholarship, Karson will receive $3,200 toward tuition, fees, and books, along with fully funded participation in the AFA Leaders Conference, scheduled for November 6-9, 2025, in Kansas City, Missouri—an additional value of $1,250.Elizabeth Banuelos, a McPherson High School graduate, has been awarded a Leaders Conference Scholarship and will be attending the AFA Leadership Conference. Elizabeth plans to attend Kansas State University to pursue studies in Agronomy, Horticulture, and Business Administration.The AFA Leaders Conference is a premier leadership development experience designed to bridge the gap between college and career for undergraduate students studying agriculture and food systems. Through this transformative program, students will build essential skills in relationship development, systems thinking, collaboration, cultural and interpersonal intelligence, and career management.Karson and Elizabeth exemplify the hard work, dedication, and innovation that the McPherson Chamber of Commerce Ag Committee strives to support through its ongoing partnership with AFA. Their passion for agriculture and commitment to leadership reflect the values at the heart of this scholarship program.For more information about AFA, visit www.agfuture.org.

McPherson County students awarded prestigious ag scholarships

The Hutchinson USD 308 Board of Education is meeting this evening at the District Administration Building at 4:15 p.m.&nbsp;

On the agenda for the meeting is the approval of the March 2025 treasurer's report and then the board will go into executive session for the purpose of discussing personnel matters pursuant to non-elected personnel exception under the Kansas Open Meetings Act.&nbsp;

The board will then consider approving the personnel report.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741718847495.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Hutchinson USD 308 Board of Education is meeting this evening at the District Administration Building at 4:15 p.m.&nbsp;On the agenda for the meeting is the approval of the March 2025 treasurer's report and then the board will go into executive session for the purpose of discussing personnel matters pursuant to non-elected personnel exception under the Kansas Open Meetings Act.&nbsp;The board will then consider approving the personnel report.&nbsp;

USD 308 Board of Education to hold special meeting 

 Ellie Foos, a senior at Hutchinson High School, who graduated on Sunday, was the school’s only student completing the full International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma program — a milestone capping off 13 years in the USD 308 school district.

Foos, who has attended Hutchinson public schools from kindergarten through 12th grade, is recognized not only for her academic achievements but also for her strong commitment to community service and leadership.

A standout on the tennis court, Foos qualified for the state tournament in both her junior and senior years. Off the court, she has been deeply involved in local and state youth initiatives. She volunteers through Rise Up Reno and serves on the Youth Philanthropy Council, helping to direct charitable efforts in the community.

She also holds positions on the Youth Advisory Board at the Hutchinson Public Library and formerly served on the Youth City Council. Her civic engagement extends statewide through her role with the Kansas Youth Prevention Action Council (KYPAC), where she advocates on behalf of Kansas youth at both the state and national levels.

This fall, Foos will attend the University of Kansas, where she has been accepted into the Honors Program and the prestigious LEAD (Legal Education Accelerated Degree) program. The LEAD track enables students to earn both a bachelor’s degree and a Juris Doctor in just six years. Foos plans to pursue a career in law, aiming to combine her passion for advocacy with a legal education.

“I’m excited to continue using my voice to support and uplift others,” Foos said. “The IB program has prepared me for the challenges ahead, and I look forward to building on what I’ve learned here in Hutchinson.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747313544056.jpeg" alt="Ellie Foos with Governor Laura Kelly - Photo courtesy Amy Foos" />
 <figcaption>Ellie Foos with Governor Laura Kelly - Photo courtesy Amy Foos</figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch Post Ellie Foos, a senior at Hutchinson High School, who graduated on Sunday, was the school’s only student completing the full International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma program — a milestone capping off 13 years in the USD 308 school district.Foos, who has attended Hutchinson public schools from kindergarten through 12th grade, is recognized not only for her academic achievements but also for her strong commitment to community service and leadership.A standout on the tennis court, Foos qualified for the state tournament in both her junior and senior years. Off the court, she has been deeply involved in local and state youth initiatives. She volunteers through Rise Up Reno and serves on the Youth Philanthropy Council, helping to direct charitable efforts in the community.She also holds positions on the Youth Advisory Board at the Hutchinson Public Library and formerly served on the Youth City Council. Her civic engagement extends statewide through her role with the Kansas Youth Prevention Action Council (KYPAC), where she advocates on behalf of Kansas youth at both the state and national levels.This fall, Foos will attend the University of Kansas, where she has been accepted into the Honors Program and the prestigious LEAD (Legal Education Accelerated Degree) program. The LEAD track enables students to earn both a bachelor’s degree and a Juris Doctor in just six years. Foos plans to pursue a career in law, aiming to combine her passion for advocacy with a legal education.“I’m excited to continue using my voice to support and uplift others,” Foos said. “The IB program has prepared me for the challenges ahead, and I look forward to building on what I’ve learned here in Hutchinson.”

HHS senior completes full International Baccalaureate diploma program  

McPHERSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Community College will launch a new Industrial Mechanical Maintenance – Certificate A program at its McPherson Outreach Center beginning in the 2025-26 academic year.

The program is designed to provide students with foundational skills in manufacturing engineering technology, including electrical and electronic systems, automation, fluid power and mechanical maintenance.

The certificate is intended for students pursuing careers in modern manufacturing and serves as a direct pathway into the college’s Automation Engineer Technology associate degree program. Graduates will be prepared to support engineers and technicians in calibrating, modifying and maintaining automated systems, including those used in robotics and advanced manufacturing.

Tuition is $131 per credit hour. High school students may qualify for free tuition through the Excel in Career and Technical Education waiver.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741223163657.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>McPHERSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Community College will launch a new Industrial Mechanical Maintenance – Certificate A program at its McPherson Outreach Center beginning in the 2025-26 academic year.The program is designed to provide students with foundational skills in manufacturing engineering technology, including electrical and electronic systems, automation, fluid power and mechanical maintenance.The certificate is intended for students pursuing careers in modern manufacturing and serves as a direct pathway into the college’s Automation Engineer Technology associate degree program. Graduates will be prepared to support engineers and technicians in calibrating, modifying and maintaining automated systems, including those used in robotics and advanced manufacturing.Tuition is $131 per credit hour. High school students may qualify for free tuition through the Excel in Career and Technical Education waiver.

HutchCC launches new Industrial Maintenance Program in McPherson

 The Nickerson High School forensics team made school history at the 3A state tournament held May 2-3 at Maize High School, bringing home a team trophy for the first time since records began in the 1980s.

Competing with a full slate of 16 entries across just seven students, the Panthers placed third overall in the state, earning 287 sweepstakes points — the highest total during the current seniors’ tenure.

In Lincoln-Douglas debate on Friday, senior Haley McGill and sophomore Ellery Stapleton both advanced to the semifinal round after defeating Lyons debaters. In a Nickerson-versus-Nickerson final, McGill took first place and Stapleton placed second.

Saturday’s speech events saw all seven students compete: freshman Pollyann Frank (Poetry, Program of Oral Interpretation); sophomores Will Barkley (Informative, Poetry, Impromptu), Abby Dater (Humorous Solo, Prose), and Stapleton (Informative, Extemporaneous Speaking); and seniors Alec Brown (Informative, Extemporaneous Speaking, Impromptu), McGill (Original Oration, Extemporaneous Speaking, Impromptu), and Aziza Tuichieva (Informative).

Eleven entries advanced to semifinals, with four concluding their state runs there. Stapleton finished 10th in Extemporaneous Speaking, McGill was 10th in Impromptu, and Barkley placed 9th in Poetry and 7th in Informative.

Seven entries moved on to the final round. Barkley placed 6th in Impromptu; McGill was 6th in Oration and 3rd in Extemporaneous; Tuichieva earned 2nd in Informative; and Brown claimed 2nd in Extemporaneous and 1st place in both Informative and Impromptu.

“At the beginning of the season I gave the team three goals,” Bethany Jenkins, Head Coach said. “We wanted to qualify as many kids for state as possible, get a full state entry despite our small numbers, and contend for a state trophy. The kids really met every single goal this season.”

Seven of the nine team members qualified for state. The 16th entry was secured at the final regular-season tournament, and the Panthers edged out Halstead — who had beaten them at league — for the third-place finish.

“To say I’m proud would be an understatement,” Jenkins added.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746714563727.jpeg" alt="Nickerson Forensics - L to R: Assistant Coach Bailey Brewer, Head Coach Bethany Jenkins, Haley McGill (Sr), Aziza Tuichieva (Sr), Alec Brown (Sr), Will Barkley (So), Ellery Stapleton (So), Pollyann Frank (Fr), Abby Dater (So) - Photo courtesy Bethany Jenkins&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Nickerson Forensics - L to R: Assistant Coach Bailey Brewer, Head Coach Bethany Jenkins, Haley McGill (Sr), Aziza Tuichieva (Sr), Alec Brown (Sr), Will Barkley (So), Ellery Stapleton (So), Pollyann Frank (Fr), Abby Dater (So) - Photo courtesy Bethany Jenkins&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure> The Nickerson High School forensics team made school history at the 3A state tournament held May 2-3 at Maize High School, bringing home a team trophy for the first time since records began in the 1980s.Competing with a full slate of 16 entries across just seven students, the Panthers placed third overall in the state, earning 287 sweepstakes points — the highest total during the current seniors’ tenure.In Lincoln-Douglas debate on Friday, senior Haley McGill and sophomore Ellery Stapleton both advanced to the semifinal round after defeating Lyons debaters. In a Nickerson-versus-Nickerson final, McGill took first place and Stapleton placed second.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746714921643.jpeg" alt="Lincoln-Douglas competitors Ellery Stapleton (So) and Haley McGill (Sr) - Photo courtesy Bethany Jenkins&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Lincoln-Douglas competitors Ellery Stapleton (So) and Haley McGill (Sr) - Photo courtesy Bethany Jenkins&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Saturday’s speech events saw all seven students compete: freshman Pollyann Frank (Poetry, Program of Oral Interpretation); sophomores Will Barkley (Informative, Poetry, Impromptu), Abby Dater (Humorous Solo, Prose), and Stapleton (Informative, Extemporaneous Speaking); and seniors Alec Brown (Informative, Extemporaneous Speaking, Impromptu), McGill (Original Oration, Extemporaneous Speaking, Impromptu), and Aziza Tuichieva (Informative).Eleven entries advanced to semifinals, with four concluding their state runs there. Stapleton finished 10th in Extemporaneous Speaking, McGill was 10th in Impromptu, and Barkley placed 9th in Poetry and 7th in Informative.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746714729117.jpeg" alt="Nickerson Forensics - L to R: Head Coach Bethany Jenkins, Aziza Tuichieva (Sr), Haley McGill (Sr), Alec Brown (Sr), Assistant Coach Bailey Brewer - Photo courtesy Bethany Jenkins&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Nickerson Forensics - L to R: Head Coach Bethany Jenkins, Aziza Tuichieva (Sr), Haley McGill (Sr), Alec Brown (Sr), Assistant Coach Bailey Brewer - Photo courtesy Bethany Jenkins&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Seven entries moved on to the final round. Barkley placed 6th in Impromptu; McGill was 6th in Oration and 3rd in Extemporaneous; Tuichieva earned 2nd in Informative; and Brown claimed 2nd in Extemporaneous and 1st place in both Informative and Impromptu.“At the beginning of the season I gave the team three goals,” Bethany Jenkins, Head Coach said. “We wanted to qualify as many kids for state as possible, get a full state entry despite our small numbers, and contend for a state trophy. The kids really met every single goal this season.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746714818548.jpeg" alt="Nickerson Forensic finalists, L to R: Aziza Tuichieva (Sr), Haley McGill (Sr), Will Barkley (So), Alec Brown (Sr) " />
 <figcaption>Nickerson Forensic finalists, L to R: Aziza Tuichieva (Sr), Haley McGill (Sr), Will Barkley (So), Alec Brown (Sr) </figcaption>
 </figure>Seven of the nine team members qualified for state. The 16th entry was secured at the final regular-season tournament, and the Panthers edged out Halstead — who had beaten them at league — for the third-place finish.“To say I’m proud would be an understatement,” Jenkins added.&nbsp;

Nickerson forensics team finishes third at state tournament 

BUHLER, KS — It’s been a whirlwind of speeches, scripts, and success for Buhler&nbsp;High School’s forensics team, which placed an impressive fifth overall out of 34 schools at the recent state competition. The team brought home multiple honors, including three individual state championships, and demonstrated the dedication and talent that comes from countless hours of preparation.&nbsp;

Leading the team’s standout performance were Chase Beals and Henry Trumpp, who were crowned state champions in duet acting. Known for their presence in the Buhler  Singers, the pair’s dynamic chemistry and theatrical flair earned top marks in one of the most competitive categories.&nbsp;

Another shining moment came from Kieron Bradley, who took the top spot in Lincoln-Douglas debate — a one-on-one format that emphasizes critical thinking, argumentation, and on-the-spot reasoning.&nbsp;

In addition to the state titles, the team saw several other strong finishes:&nbsp;

“These kids work incredibly hard,” said&nbsp;Cindy Couchman, Buhler Superintendent of Schools . “If you’ve ever had a student involved in debate or forensics, you know what goes into it — hours of after-school practice, constant research, and even rehearsing in the hallways. We’re incredibly proud of them.”&nbsp;

Much of the team’s success is credited to their coach, Dakota Yates, whose guidance has helped foster a culture of excellence. “We’re very fortunate to have Dakota on staff,” Couchman said.&nbsp;

Debate and Forensics may not always get the spotlight, but educators stress their long-term value. “It’s one of those activities that flies under the radar, but it builds skills that last a lifetime — public speaking, critical thinking, confidence. It prepares students not just for college, but for life.” added Couchman.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696683579907.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, KS — It’s been a whirlwind of speeches, scripts, and success for Buhler&nbsp;High School’s forensics team, which placed an impressive fifth overall out of 34 schools at the recent state competition. The team brought home multiple honors, including three individual state championships, and demonstrated the dedication and talent that comes from countless hours of preparation.&nbsp;Leading the team’s standout performance were Chase Beals and Henry Trumpp, who were crowned state champions in duet acting. Known for their presence in the Buhler Singers, the pair’s dynamic chemistry and theatrical flair earned top marks in one of the most competitive categories.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746715532758.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy - Dakota Sanders&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy - Dakota Sanders&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Another shining moment came from Kieron Bradley, who took the top spot in Lincoln-Douglas debate — a one-on-one format that emphasizes critical thinking, argumentation, and on-the-spot reasoning.&nbsp;In addition to the state titles, the team saw several other strong finishes:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Chase Beals also earned third place in prose interpretation&nbsp;</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Libby Trumpp placed sixth in original oration&nbsp;</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Jacob Friesen took fifth in informational speaking&nbsp;</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Connor Friars landed fourth in prose interpretation&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>“These kids work incredibly hard,” said&nbsp;Cindy Couchman, Buhler Superintendent of Schools . “If you’ve ever had a student involved in debate or forensics, you know what goes into it — hours of after-school practice, constant research, and even rehearsing in the hallways. We’re incredibly proud of them.”&nbsp;Much of the team’s success is credited to their coach, Dakota Yates, whose guidance has helped foster a culture of excellence. “We’re very fortunate to have Dakota on staff,” Couchman said.&nbsp;Debate and Forensics may not always get the spotlight, but educators stress their long-term value. “It’s one of those activities that flies under the radar, but it builds skills that last a lifetime — public speaking, critical thinking, confidence. It prepares students not just for college, but for life.” added Couchman.&nbsp;

Buhler forensics places fifth at state, has three state champs

Topeka, Kan. – Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt, today, announced the overall winners of the financial literacy essay contest sponsored by the Securities Division of the Kansas Department of Insurance.  

Earlier this year, the Department granted $10,000 each to three organizations for a financial literacy essay contest. Jobs for America’s Graduates Kansas, Junior Achievement of Kansas, and the Kansas Council for Economic Education each entered a selection of essays from Kansas students who participated in their financial literacy programs offered in over 200 high schools across the state. 

The students with the top three essays from each organization were awarded a share of $10,000 in scholarships. The first-place essay from each organization then advanced to compete for an overall contest winner, and a share of an additional $10,000.  

The contest finalists and their awards are: 1st Place, $5,000 – Anusha Chaturvedi, Olathe North High School (KCEE) 2nd Place, $3,000 – Joel Umana Jimenez, Newton High School (JAG-K) 3rd Place, $2,000 – Cora Genovese, Washburn Rural High School (Junior Achievement)

“This year’s winners showed strong understanding of investment fraud red flags and what steps to take to stop scammers,” said Schmidt. “Congratulations to all the winners this year, and I encourage them to use what they have learned to help others.”  

The winning students receive their scholarships in addition to the $5,000 scholarship they won in the first round of the contest. The students receive the award money in the form of a 529 savings account to use for the advancement of their education. 

Previously announced winners from each participating organization can be found online at <a href="https://insurance.kansas.gov/news/">insurance.kansas.gov/news</a>. For more information about the Kansas Insurance Department or to learn more about making smart investment decisions, visit i<a href="https://insurance.kansas.gov/">nsurance.kansas.gov</a> and <a href="http://SmartInvestKS.com">SmartInvestKS.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647376123800.png" alt="Kansas Insurance Department logo.PNG" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Insurance Department logo.PNG</figcaption>
 </figure>Topeka, Kan. – Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt, today, announced the overall winners of the financial literacy essay contest sponsored by the Securities Division of the Kansas Department of Insurance. Earlier this year, the Department granted $10,000 each to three organizations for a financial literacy essay contest. Jobs for America’s Graduates Kansas, Junior Achievement of Kansas, and the Kansas Council for Economic Education each entered a selection of essays from Kansas students who participated in their financial literacy programs offered in over 200 high schools across the state. The students with the top three essays from each organization were awarded a share of $10,000 in scholarships. The first-place essay from each organization then advanced to compete for an overall contest winner, and a share of an additional $10,000. The contest finalists and their awards are: 1st Place, $5,000 – Anusha Chaturvedi, Olathe North High School (KCEE) 2nd Place, $3,000 – Joel Umana Jimenez, Newton High School (JAG-K) 3rd Place, $2,000 – Cora Genovese, Washburn Rural High School (Junior Achievement) <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746273125096.jpeg" alt="Joel Umana Jimenez - Courtesy USD 373 Newton" />
 <figcaption>Joel Umana Jimenez - Courtesy USD 373 Newton</figcaption>
 </figure>“This year’s winners showed strong understanding of investment fraud red flags and what steps to take to stop scammers,” said Schmidt. “Congratulations to all the winners this year, and I encourage them to use what they have learned to help others.” The winning students receive their scholarships in addition to the $5,000 scholarship they won in the first round of the contest. The students receive the award money in the form of a 529 savings account to use for the advancement of their education. Previously announced winners from each participating organization can be found online at <a href="https://insurance.kansas.gov/news/">insurance.kansas.gov/news</a>. For more information about the Kansas Insurance Department or to learn more about making smart investment decisions, visit i<a href="https://insurance.kansas.gov/">nsurance.kansas.gov</a> and <a href="http://SmartInvestKS.com">SmartInvestKS.com</a>.

Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt awards financial literacy scholarships

NEWTON, Kan. — USD 373 has launched a Facilities Master Planning project in collaboration with RSP, a Kansas-based firm known for its expertise in school and community planning. The initiative aims to develop a long-term strategy for the district’s facilities by engaging a diverse group of stakeholders and analyzing key data.

Since November 2024, the district’s planning group—composed of community members, educators and other stakeholders—has met monthly to evaluate current facility conditions, enrollment trends and educational needs. Their work is intended to provide the Board of Education with data-driven recommendations for the future of USD 373’s facilities.

Community members are encouraged to attend an upcoming engagement session to learn more about the group’s findings and offer feedback. The event will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 14, at Chisholm Middle School.

For those unable to attend in person, the district will launch an online Social PinPoint survey the evening of May 14. The survey will remain open through May 28, allowing the broader community to share their perspectives and help shape the district’s next steps.

For more information, visit the USD 373 website or contact the district office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746137233865.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>USD 373 COMMUNICATIONSNEWTON, Kan. — USD 373 has launched a Facilities Master Planning project in collaboration with RSP, a Kansas-based firm known for its expertise in school and community planning. The initiative aims to develop a long-term strategy for the district’s facilities by engaging a diverse group of stakeholders and analyzing key data.Since November 2024, the district’s planning group—composed of community members, educators and other stakeholders—has met monthly to evaluate current facility conditions, enrollment trends and educational needs. Their work is intended to provide the Board of Education with data-driven recommendations for the future of USD 373’s facilities.Community members are encouraged to attend an upcoming engagement session to learn more about the group’s findings and offer feedback. The event will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 14, at Chisholm Middle School.For those unable to attend in person, the district will launch an online Social PinPoint survey the evening of May 14. The survey will remain open through May 28, allowing the broader community to share their perspectives and help shape the district’s next steps.For more information, visit the USD 373 website or contact the district office.

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